Marijuana-infused haircare has quietly transitioned from a niche market to a mainstream movement. Where drugstore aisles and salon shelves once showcased only sulfate-free or color-safe formulas, they now feature shampoos, conditioners, and scalp serums infused with hemp-derived cannabinoids—primarily CBD—for soothing, strengthening, and balancing the hair and scalp.
Why It’s Grown in Popularity
Three major factors have fueled this rise: legalization, retail normalization, and emerging scientific support. The legalization of hemp cultivation and its removal from the federal definition of marijuana in 2018 opened the door for hemp-derived ingredients in cosmetic products nationwide. This shift allowed brands to explore cannabinoids in haircare without the stigma or restrictions associated with traditional cannabis.
Retailers played a major role in the category’s normalization. Beauty giants began implementing CBD standards requiring product testing, transparency, and public Certificates of Analysis (COAs). These policies established credibility and consumer trust, setting a higher bar for safety and quality assurance. Shoppers who once viewed cannabis ingredients with skepticism now see them as part of a broader clean beauty and wellness movement.
Consumer interest in scalp health has also boosted the market. As “scalp care” became the new “skincare,” cannabinoids found their place naturally. Research has identified cannabinoid receptors in the skin and hair follicle, suggesting a potential pathway for soothing irritation, balancing oil production, and supporting overall scalp health. Though clinical studies are still limited, early research points to benefits that align perfectly with modern haircare concerns.
Market Growth and Retail Expansion
The market for CBD beauty and haircare products continues to expand rapidly. Analysts project strong growth through 2030, driven by consumer demand for natural, multi-benefit ingredients. What began as an indie niche has evolved into a full-fledged category in national retail chains and salon distributors. Today, both boutique and major brands incorporate cannabinoids into conditioners, masks, and styling products that emphasize calmness, hydration, and shine.
Where It’s Going
The future of marijuana-infused haircare depends on continued transparency and credible science. Regulators like the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) still monitor how companies market cannabis-derived products, ensuring claims stay focused on cosmetic benefits rather than medical promises. Brands that emphasize ingredient authenticity, maintain verifiable lab results, and educate consumers are expected to lead the next phase of growth.
For consumers and stylists alike, it’s important to remember that “hemp-derived” does not automatically mean “high quality.” Shoppers should review COAs, cannabinoid concentrations, and supporting ingredients. The best formulas still depend on foundational haircare principles such as moisture balance, emollient oils, and pH stability.
If scientific research continues to progress, cannabinoids may become as commonplace in haircare as ingredients like keratin or niacinamide are in skincare—valued for their performance rather than novelty.