Reactive Hair Editorial Team
This post was most recently updated on May 6th, 2023
At the risk of possibly annoying tea lovers: We would like to point out that in today’s society, behind every successful man and woman is a substantial amount of coffee. It would be no joke to say that humanity seems to run on coffee. But whoever has heard of coffee for your hair? Do shampoos and conditioners with coffee really help with hair loss, hair regrowth and hair regrowth stimulation? Today, this Ultrax Labs Hair Review covers the nitty gritties you need to know about their caffeine imbued shampoo product; Ultrax Labs Hair Surge Shampoo.
We will be looking at:
- the benefits,
- the possible side effects,
- the core ingredients and
- multiple customer reviews to determine the effects of the shampoo for men and women looking for hair growth stimulators.
We will also be looking at other Ultrax Labs products that serve hair health briefly.
What is Hair Surge Shampoo?
Ultrax Labs Hair Surge Shampoo is a product of the USA based company, Ultrax Labs, which specialize in making hair care products that ‘surge’ or contribute to the health of hair follicles, the growth of hair strands as well as countering hair loss.
Their product line includes:
- Hair Surge Shampoo
- Hair Solaye Conditioner
- Hair Rush Supplement
- Hair Plush Thickening Treatment
- Hair Vigor Hair Mask
- Eye Bloom
These products are designed to help counter hair problems through different methods as well as counter hair problems in different areas of your body.
What makes Ultrax Labs Hair Surge Shampoo special is the fact that its key ingredient, caffeine, stimulates hair follicles leading to reduced hair miniaturization and hair loss while improving hair growth and hair regrowth.
It is imbued with caffeinated compounds, essential oils and ketoconazol to counter hair loss and improve overall hair health and hair growth.
Who is Hair Surge Shampoo for?
Simply put:
Hair Surge Shampoo is for men and women who have encountered hair loss problems because of
- Stress (changes in work and home environments especially in a post COVID-19 world),
- Hormones (dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in men, female pattern hair loss (FPHL) in women),
- Physiological conditions (such as Alopecia Areata and Androgenetic Alopecia),
- Environmental conditions (pollution),
- Mechanical damage, etc.
Customer reviews on Amazon also reveal that the product works well for colored hair.
It is pretty cool to think that a cup of java could have so many benefits for hair when applied. Let’s take a closer look at the active ingredients in the product.
Active Ingredients in Hair Surge Shampoo
| Caffeine |  |
| Saw Palmetto |  |
| Ketoconazole |  |
| Peppermint Oil |  |
| Mango Butter |  |
| Menthol |  |
Caffeine
In 2020, most people went crazy for Dalgona Coffee!
Since a long time ago, people have been putting coffee in various types of food; be it tiramisu, affogato, coffee cake, coffee jelly, cappuccino potato chips, siciliano or the crowd favorite, iced Irish coffee.
One of the latest trends is to put natural caffeine found in the coffee bean in hair, cosmetic and health products. But why? Let’s find out.
Benefits for Hair
- Caffeine has the ability to stimulate hair roots.
When hair roots are stimulated, blood circulation on the scalp improves leading to better nutrient absorption by the hair follicles. Additionally, this stimulation can improve hair texture and inhibit hair loss while boosting hair growth and regrowth.
- Caffeine can penetrate the scalp easily.
The ability to penetrate the scalp easily means that instead of treating the problem at the surface level, that caffeine can reach into the hair roots and boost hair health. Once it reaches the root, it helps to elongate or lengthen the hair shaft, reducing hair miniaturization.
Better penetration abilities also mean that caffeine works as a detoxifier that helps get rid of buildup and other toxins clogging your pores.
- Can serve as a solution for DHT-induced hair miniaturization.
A study has revealed that even the mere presence of 0.001% and 0.005% of caffeine concentrations can help to suppress the detrimental effects of testosterone on hair growth that leads to hair loss in people suffering from AGA (Androgenetic Alopecia).
The study also revealed that it helps counter AGA by elongating the hair shaft (making the hair root bigger), increasing the hair growth (anagen) stage and by stimulating the hair matrix keratinocyte proliferation to increase the production of keratin.
- Promotes new growth of hair follicles.
A study published in 2014 revealed that caffeine helps promote new growth in men and women but at different levels. Female subjects of the project showed a higher sensitivity to caffeine than males.
- Add vibrancy to natural hair when used as a brewed coffee spray.
- Works as a natural concealer/ dye of grey hair when used as a coffee paste.
Saw Palmetto
Saw Palmetto or Serenoa repens (SR) is botanically derived from the berries in the plant to be used as 5 alpha reductase (5aR) inhibitors.
What does that mean?
In fact:
- A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial about the effect of SR extract revealed that 6 out of the 10 male subjects saw positive results.
- A three-month study of 34 males and 28 females revealed that SR extract in shampoo and lotion led to 35% increase of hair density and 67% increase in sebum reduction. Sebum can clog your hair pores.
- A study about ketoconazole (another core ingredient in this product) revealed that a 0.5% addition of SR extract in ketoconazole shampoos can yield better results in users.
However, scientific studies about Saw Palmetto needs to be widened to provide more substantial evidence about the effect of the berries.
Ketoconazole
Ketoconazole is a compound with antifungal, anti-androgenic and anti-dandruff properties. It has also been connected to treating Seborrheic Dermatitis which causes red skin, itchiness, patches of greasy skin and flakiness on your scalp, hair, eyebrows, beard.
How does this help hair health? Let’s find out.
Benefits for Hair
- Has anti-dandruff and antifungal properties.
Can kill fungi that can lead to skin conditions such as eczema, skin irritation and dandruff and thereby reduce flakiness and irritation in scalp. It treats yeast infections and fungal scalp conditions by blocking ergosterol and thereby, inhibiting the reproduction of yeast and fungi.
- Works as a natural exfoliator.
Removes sebum that can clog pores.
- May help block 5aR that helps to convert testosterone into DHT in AGA patients.
- Helps to treat female pattern hair loss (FPHL).
A six-month study comparing the effects of minoxidil and ketoconazole for treating hair loss revealed that ketoconazole mediates a trichogenic effect, i.e. it helps to produce hair but at a slower rate than minoxidil but with less side effects.
Given below are the findings of the ketoconazole group.
The study revealed that while minoxidil provides results faster, the frequency of treatment-related side effects of it was 55%. Only 10% of Ketoconazole patients saw side-effects.
Peppermint Oil
Peppermint oil is extracted from the peppermint plant native to Europe. It has a minty flavour and is used as a fragrance agent and as a skin conditioning agent.
Benefits for Hair
- Kick starts the hair growth stage i.e. the anagen stage.
- Has a cooling and refreshing effect on the scalp.
- Helps thicken hair.
- Increases circulation on the scalp.
- Promotes hair growth without signs of toxins.
A study done comparing the effect of Saline (SA), Jojoba Oil (JO), Minoxidil (MXD) and Peppermint oil (PEO) on mice revealed that the group of mice who were applied with Peppermint oil saw the highest increase in hair growth in terms of dermal thickness, follicle number, and follicle depth.
Given below is the vertical view of hair follicles at the end of the trail.
Given below is hair growth improvement on the shaved mice after four weeks.
Sodium Laureth Sulfate
In this section of our Ultrax Labs Hair Surge review, we will be looking at the pros and cons of the sulfate compound, Sodium Laureth Sulfate.
It is used to remove grime, dirt and dead skin cells from your scalp. However, the compound can be detrimental to color treated or keratin treated hair because it can undo the treatments with prolonged usage.
Benefits for Hair
- Works as a cleanser removing dirt and dead skin cells.
- Works as a detergent and surfactant that allows the product to be lathered onto the scalp effectively.
- Has moisturizing effects compared to SLS which can cause skin irritation.
Mango Butter
Mango butter is derived from cold-pressed de-shelled mango fruit seeds.
Benefits for Hair
- Has moisturizing properties that help to moisturize dry hair.
- Can help relieve itchy scalps, heal rashes and treat dandruff.
- Has skin healing properties.
- A study done about the effectiveness of mango butter to heal cracked and worn skin yielded effective results in all study volunteers.
Menthol
Menthol is a substance that can be synthetically made or extracted from a plant in the peppermint family.
Benefits for Hair
- Has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
- Provides a cooling sensation for hair and scalp.
- Increases cutaneous blood flow which is important for scalp health.
Before and After Pictures
Now this Ultrax Labs Hair Surge Shampoo review will be looking at before and after pictures of real life users from Amazon.
Possible Side Effects of Hair Surge Shampoo
This section of our Ultrax Labs Hair Surge review talks about the possible side effects and disadvantages of the product.
Certain People Can Have Reactions to Essential Oils and Other Extracts
Natural ingredients does not immediately mean allergy free. Certain people may show sensitivity towards particular natural ingredients and therefore, it is better to do a skin test before applying the product properly.
If you experience itchiness, redness and irritation – stop immediately and seek medical help.
The product should also not be left in hair for prolonged periods of time. Ultrax Labs recommends 2 minutes to lather and spread the product in hair before washing it off.
Product Does Not Lather As a Typical Shampoo
Many consumers on Amazon have complained about the fact that due to the thick consistency of the product that it does not lather as your usual shampoo.
May Cause a Very Rare Allergic Reaction Called Anaphylaxis
An Anaphylaxis reaction is commonly caused by a reaction to particular foods, medication, latex or insect bites. Although it is very rare, if it occurs, it can prove fatal. It requires immediate medical treatment.
Symptoms include hives, wheezing, seizures, redness, itching, nausea and/or vomiting, breathing difficulties and swelling of particular body parts (cheeks, throat, tongue, mouth, lips, etc.)
If you have a history of anaphylaxis in your family, allergies and/or asthma – please proceed with caution when applying this product.
Pregnant and Nursing Women – Proceed with Caution
If you are a nursing and/or pregnant mother, do not use this product without consulting a doctor.
Disadvantages of Certain Core Ingredients
Ketoconazole – May cause hair drying. However, it is also worthy to mention that the FDA says that topical application of ketoconazole has NOT been associated with adrenal problems, liver damage, or drug interactions (Food and Drug Administration 2013).
Saw Palmetto – May interact with birth control pills and anticoagulatory medication you are taking. May cause minor stomach aches if ingested.
Sodium Laureth Sulfate – Is a sulfate and can easily be absorbed into the bloodstream. However, SLES is much safer than SLS which can cause skin irritations.
Ultrax Labs’ Other Products
In this section of our Hair Surge Caffeine Shampoo review we talk about the other products designed by Ultrax Labs for hair health.
Price:
$71.96 / 8 fl oz (236 ml)
Use:
Works as a hair growth and regrowth shampoo.
#9 in Hair Regrowth Shampoo
Ratings
4.2 / 5 Stars on Amazon
Price:
$59.98 / 8 fl oz (236 ml)
Use:
Works as a hair growth and regrowth conditioner that compliments Hair Surge Caffeine Shampoo.
Ratings
4.2 / 5 Stars on Amazon
Hair Plush Thickening Treatment
Price:
$79.98 / 1.7 fl oz (50 ml)
Use:
Works as an advanced leave-in caffeine hair thickening serum treatment that compliments the shampoo. Surges/ boosts new hair growth.
Ratings
4.2 / 5 Stars on Amazon
Price:
$58.48 / 60 tablets
Use:
Works as a dietary supplement that provides nutrients for hair such as Pumpkin (seed) Powder, Gotu Kola (herb), Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Vitamin E, Thiamin, Niacin, Vitamin B12, Biotin, Pantothenic acid, Magnesium and Zinc which serves hair health in many ways.
It is a blend of 23 essential vitamins including solubilized Keratin to counter hair loss and increase hair growth.
Ratings
4.3 / 5 Stars on Amazon
#1 Rated Hair Growth Supplement that is Safe and Effective for both Men and Women on Amazon
Price:
$44.99 / 8 fl oz (236 ml)
Use:
Works as a leave-in, caffeine imbued hair stimulating and conditioning hair mask.
Ratings
4.3 / 5 Stars on Amazon
EyeLash Surge
Price:
$59.98 / 8 fl oz (236 ml)
Use:
For thicker, fuller and longer eyelashes. Clinically tested at AMA Laboratories, New City, NY.
Ratings
3.8 / 5 Stars on Amazon
Alternatives to Ultrax Labs Hair Surge Shampoo
Here we will be looking at a couple of alternatives to Hair Surge Shampoo.
Price:
$29.99 / 8 fl oz (236 ml)
Ratings:
4.3 / 5 stars by 2328 people
#1 in Hair Regrowth Shampoo on Amazon
Contains ingredients such as Biotin, Aloe Vera Extract, Seaweed Extract, Saw Palmetto Extract and Collagen, and also DHT Blockers to counter thinning hair.
Price:
$39.99 / 8 fl oz (236 ml)
Ratings:
4.3 / 5 stars by 834 people
#8 in Hair Regrowth Shampoo on Amazon
Contains ingredients such as Biotin, Aloe Vera Extract, Seaweed Extract, Saw Palmetto Extract and Collagen, and also DHT Blockers to counter thinning hair and balding hair.
Price:
$29.99 / 16 fl oz (473 ml)
Ratings:
4.3 / 5 stars by 25,661 people
#2 in Hair Regrowth Shampoo on Amazon
It is a 17 proprietary herbal blend that has Biotin, Argan Oil, Nettle Extract, Saw Palmetto, Red Seaweed and 17+ DHT Herbal Actives.
Final Verdict
This is our final verdict of Ultrax Labs’ Hair Surge Shampoo.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| The product has worked for most customers on Amazon. They have experienced hair growth and hair regrowth on thinning regions on their scalp. The product is made in the USA. | But there are a few customers on Amazon who were dissatisfied with the performance of the product. Goes to prove the idiom that one size does not fit all. |
| Has a refreshing minty-citrusy smell to it. | Does not lather well as a typical shampoo meaning application can be difficult. |
| Has an array of products that compliment the effects of the shampoo. | Expensive investment. The price of the serum which contains only 1.7 fl oz (50 ml) is nearly the same price as the shampoo with 8 fl oz (236 ml) of product. |
| Contains the core ingredient, caffeine which is scientifically connected to stimulate hair growth, elongation of hair shaft and reduction of hair miniaturization. | Contains sulfates – Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES). However it does not contain SLS, meaning SLES is much safer than SLS for topical application. SLES might also be detrimental to chemically treated hair. |
| Contains ingredients such as saw palmetto, ketoconazole, mango butter and peppermint oil which are scientifically linked to promote hair health. | Side effects may include skin irritation, redness, minor stomach aches, hair drying and on very rare cases anaphylaxis. Make sure to do a skin test to ensure you do not have a sensitivity to any of the natural extracts in the product. |
If this review helped you in any way in making a decision about your hair dilemmas, feel free to leave your valuable feedback in the comments.
