As someone who works in beauty, it feels like a new product lands on my desk every week. But the number of hair brands that genuinely make their way into my routine is few and far between. You see, as someone who has Afro hair and wears it in many different ways, from blowouts to braids, the number of brands that actually cater to all hair types and conditions is limited. But recently, I’ve been testing one particular collection of haircare products that has firmly solidified its place in my routine. And I can use it no matter what hairstyle I have. Enter Cécred.
The Brand
Founded in 2024, Cécred was created to merge global rituals with modern science. With formulas containing a patent-pending bioactive keratin ferment, which works to repair damaged proteins in the hair, the brand aims to cater to all hair types, including coloured and damaged strands. "It’s been my lifelong dream to create a brand that could work for everybody- whether you're pin straight, coily, wavy, curly or anything in between," says founder, owner and chairwoman Beyoncé Knowles-Carter on the brand's website.
So it should come as no surprise that the brand was an immediate hit amongst beauty editors, hairstylists and influencers alike. And after two long years of waiting for it to arrive here in the UK, it finally launched exclusively at Space NK last month.
I was lucky enough to get an exclusive look at the products and try them out before they officially launched here in the UK. Meeting with CEO Grace Ray, lead global stylist Neal Farinah, trichologist Dr Kari Williams and, of course, vice chairwoman Tina Knowles, I was able to gain firsthand insight into how the products work. And trust me, when I say that, they did not disappoint.
The Packaging
You only have to glance at the brand's product to know that the packaging is a huge selling point. I mean, not only will it look extremely chic on your vanity or in your shower, but each product has unique packaging that has been carefully tailored to its use. For example, the Scalp Refresher Spray features a long custom-targeted nozzle designed to reach between braids, under wigs and around extensions.
Not to mention that a signature scent called Temple Oud runs through the majority of the products, giving your hair a boost of scent featuring oud, Australian sandalwood, warm musk, night-blooming jasmine, Haitian vetiver and violet leaves. And believe me when I say it’s genuinely one of the most expensive-smelling hair perfumes I’ve ever smelled.
But don’t let me harping on about the aesthetics and the fragrance fool you. The real gem lies in the effective, hair-loving formulas that literally everyone can use. And luckily for you, I’ve been using the majority of the collection for months now, meaning my recommendations are tried and tested. So without further ado, keep scrolling to discover the nine best Cécred products to consider investing in.
The Best Cécred Products
- Cécred Restoring Hair & Edge Drops, £53
- Cécred Scalp Refreshing Spray, £37
- Cécred Strong Hold Gel, £30
- Cécred Detoxifying Shampoo, £37
- Cécred Nourishing Hair Oil, £42
- Cécred Detangling Spray, £27
- Cécred Wrap & Set Foam, £26
- Cécred Hair & Scalp Balm, £35
- Cécred Thermal Shield Mist, £28
1. Cécred Restoring Hair & Edge Drops
Pros
- Contains a science-backed formula proven the thicken and grow hair
- Colour- and texture-safe formula
Cons
- Dropper bottle can get messy and lead to less precise application
Arguably the most popular product in the entire range, a bottle of the Restoring Hair & Edge Drops is sold every 16 seconds, and after testing it, I can see why. Made with 5 special peptides known to visibly improve hair density, biotin, rose and ginger to nourish and energise the scalp, and the patent-pending bioactive keratin ferment to reduce breakage, I’ve genuinely seen a difference in my edges since using this product. Braids can often eat away at the edges and cause breakage, especially when you have high-tension styles in, so this product is the perfect antidote to this. Not to mention that it’s perfect for mature hair as well—all of the women in my family swear by this formula.
2. Cécred Scalp Refreshing Spray
Pros
- Custom nozzle allows for targeted application in hard-to-reach places
- Effectively neutralises odour and itching between washes
Cons
- Minty scent might be too strong for those sensitive to fragrance
As someone who lives in my braids throughout most of the year, the Scalp Refreshed spray has become a lifesaver in between salon appointments. With a custom-targeted nozzle that allows me to effectively target every point of my scalp and a minty fresh scent that genuinely makes my braids smell freshly washed, I cannot recommend this product enough for those of us who typically wear our hair in protective styles. Not to mention that it works for natural hair, human hair extensions and synthetic hair extensions, so you don’t need to worry about damaging your braids, wigs or weave.
3. Cécred Strong Hold Gel
Pros
- Formula does not flake or leave a white cast, even when used heavily
- Product washes out easily unlike other holding gels
Cons
- Those with dehydrated or damaged hair need to use a light hand due to the higher alcohol content
I’m not lying when I say that I haven’t purchased a single other gel since trying Cécred’s Strong Hold Gel. Not only does it give me the most perfect slicked-back bun when I’m wearing my hair naturally, but this product has also become a lifesaver for my protective styles when they start to look frizzy. I simply use an edge control brush with the gel to slick down my edges and the top of my hair, add a silk scarf before bed, and I wake up with what looks like a fresh set of braids. And you’ll be pleased to know that, unlike other holding gels, there’s no residue, flaking, or white cast left, even if you have a heavier hand (like I do). Not to mention that it’s formulated with a StemShield Complex that protects the hair from up to 232°C of heat styling, humidity and pollution.
4. Cécred Detoxifying Shampoo
Pros
- Provides a deep cleanse without stripping or drying out hair
- Works well on protective styles without causing frizz
Cons
- Has a slight cooling and tingling sensation that might not be suitable for those with sensitive scalps
If you prefer a deep-cleansing hair wash that will actually remove oil and build-up, look no further than the brand's Detoxifying Shampoo. Made with PhytoFerment to remove impurities, honey to retain moisture and, of course, the patent-pending Bioactive Keratin Ferment to repair any damage, this shampoo gives me the deep, clarifying cleanse I want without feeling too stripping or drying out my strands. But the best part? Unlike most other shampoos that cause my braids to frizz, this formula allows me to keep my hair fresh between appointments, meaning I don’t have to deal with itching and buildup that usually comes with the territory of the protective style.
5. Cécred Nourishing Hair Oil
Pros
- Lightweight formula that absorbs quickly without causing build-up
Cons
- Much more expensive than other hair oils on the market
So many people underestimate the power of adding a hair oil to their routine, and Cécred’s has quickly replaced my old oil as my go-to. Not only does it smell incredible (I cannot get enough of the Temple Oud scent), but it leaves my hair looking and feeling soft and moisturised. It’s the perfect addition to my braid-refreshing routine, bringing life back to my French curls when they start to feel a bit worn out, but I also find myself reaching for it when I’m wearing my natural hair to give it that extra shine. Not to mention that the ultra-chic packaging looks gorgeous on my vanity. At £42, I’m well aware it sits at a significantly higher price point than other hair oils on the market, but the results make it well worth the extra splurge for me.
6. Cécred Detangling Spray
Pros
- Instantly breaks down build up, making detangling hair so much easier
Cons
- Can feel heavy on the hair if not washed out
I cannot believe I used to take my braids out without Cécred’s Detangling Spray, but it’s genuinely changed my life. I simply spray the top of my braids and leave it for 1-2 minutes to work its magic. The result? Extremely soft hair that no longer gets knotted and entangled from the copious amount of gel I apply between salon visits. The hair just untangles seamlessly with the spray, meaning I can safely take out my protective style without fear of breakage or damage.
7. Cécred Wrap & Set Foam
Pros
- An effective mousse that sets and defines hair without leaving white residue or flaking
Cons
- Takes slightly longer to dry down than other mousses on the market
Foaming products that actually set and mould the hair without flaking or leaving a heavy residue are few and far between. So if you too have struggled with this dilemma, look no further than the Wrap & Set Foam. This is one of those mousses that feels completely weightless on the hair and scalp, but somehow manages to lock every hairstyle in place. It can be used with or without heat and also works to protect your strands from humidity, pollution and damage. Whether I have braids, a weave, or I’m wearing my natural hair, I apply this foam before brushing down my hair and securing it with a silk scarf before bed, leaving me with a sleek hairstyle that doesn’t budge in the mornings.
8. Cécred Moisturizing Deep Conditioner
Pros
- Intensely moisturising formula that leaves strands feeling baby soft
Cons
- Might feel too rich or heavy on those with fine hair
I don’t think my hair has ever felt softer than after using Cécred’s Moisturizing Deep Conditioner. Infused with hyaluronic acid for hydration, a blend of shea and murumuru butter to deeply replenish, an African oil blend for extra shine and hyssop oil packed with antioxidants, this buttery conditioner formula is an absolute treat for those of us with dry or damaged hair. If you have finer hair, I would apply this sparingly, as it’s very rich and I can imagine it feeling just a tad too heavy on certain hair types if overdone; however, this is one of those hero products that I’d recommend to literally everyone, regardless of their hair type, density or condition.
9. Cécred Thermal Shield Mist
Pros
- Weightless, non-sticky formula
- Provides a high-level of heat protection (232°C)
Cons
- Nozzle can get clogged and distribute unevenly
Whilst a wide number of Cécred’s products are formulated with up to 232°C of protection, you can never go wrong with having a dedicated heat protectant when using a hair dryer or straightener. The Thermal Shield Mist contains an advanced three-part StemShield complex that protects the hair from both artificial and natural heat, as well as a thermal gloss blend that gives the strands a glossy, salon-like finish. It’s been a game-changer when I’m adding heat to my hair at home, leaving it with almost a silk-press sheen that I’m typically only able to achieve at the hairdresser's. It’s also incredibly weightless, providing an ultra-fine mist without any of the crunch or build-up you might expect from a heat protector.
Shop More Cécred Products We Love
If you love the scent of Cécred's Foundation collection, look no further than the Temple Oud hair perfume.
This balm will tame flyaways and moisturise the scalp without leaving any white residue.
This is the perfect shampoo for in-between clarifying cleanses.
The hydrating conditioner will leave your hair baby soft.
This nourishing treatment can be used at room temperature or heated.
This might just be my next Cécred purchase.
Every braid-maintenance kit needs an edge control brush.
Use this before the hydrating shampoo for a more in-depth cleanse.
Sick of split-ends? Add this to your routine.
The perfect addition to your haircare routine.
This heat-resistant comb can be used with your straighteners without fear of it melting.
Get a salon-level protein treatment at home with this two-step kit.
How I Tested
I’ve been secretly testing the majority of Cécred’s collection for months before it officially launched in the UK. I assessed each product on both my natural hair and my braids to see how easy they are to use and how effective they are compared to their claims.
Why Trust Us?
At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.
We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friends.
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