ACTIIV Hair Serums: Water-Based vs. Oil-Based — Which One Is Right for You?

When it comes to healthy-looking hair, the right serum can make all the difference — but choosing the right formula matters just as much as using one at all. At ACTIIV, our hair serums are intentionally formulated to support different hair types, textures, and needs — because not all hair thrives on the same approach.

Here’s how to know which ACTIIV Hair Serum is right for you.

ACTIIV Water-Based Thickening Hair Serum

Lightweight support for scalp health & fuller-looking hair

ACTIIV’s Water-Based Thickening Hair Serum is designed to deliver targeted, plant-powered actives directly to the scalp without weight or residue. Its lightweight texture absorbs quickly, making it ideal for daily use and for hair types that prefer a clean, barely-there feel.

Best For

• Fine, thinning, or fragile hair

• Straight to loosely wavy hair types

• Oily or combination scalps

• Anyone focused on scalp support and thicker-looking hair

Why It Works

• Water-first formula: Allows fast absorption and easy layering

• Scalp-focused: Helps support a healthy scalp environment

• Non-greasy feel: Won’t weigh hair down or affect styling

• Clean, plant-based actives: Designed for consistent use

💡 ACTIIV Pro Tip: Apply directly to the scalp on clean, damp or dry hair. This serum is ideal as a daily treatment or as part of a long-term thickening routine.

ACTIIV Oil-Based Thickening Serum for Textured Hair

Rich nourishment created specifically for textured hair types

ACTIIV’s Oil-Based Hair Serum is intentionally formulated for textured hair — including curly, coily, kinky, and tightly waved patterns. Textured hair naturally needs more moisture and protection, and this serum delivers exactly that through a blend of plant-derived oils.

Best For

• Curly, coily, kinky, and textured hair

• Dry, moisture-depleted strands

• Frizz control and curl definition

• Protective styles and moisture sealing

Why It Works

• Oil-based formula: Helps seal moisture into textured hair

• Plant-derived oils: Support softness, elasticity, and shine

• Slip & manageability: Aids detangling and reduces breakage

• Curl-enhancing finish: Adds definition without stiffness

💡 ACTIIV Pro Tip: Apply to damp hair after a water-based product to help lock in hydration. Can also be used on dry hair to refresh curls or smooth ends.

ACTIIV Serum Comparison: Which Should You Choose?

Can You Use Both ACTIIV Serums?

Yes — if your hair routine calls for it.

Some individuals benefit from:

• Water-based serum on the scalp for lightweight support

• Oil-based serum through mid-lengths and ends for moisture and protection

This approach allows you to treat the scalp and hair fiber according to their unique needs — without compromise.

The ACTIIV Difference

Every ACTIIV serum is built on the same foundation:

🌱 Clean, plant-based chemistry
🔬 Purpose-driven formulations
✨ Professional-grade performance without unnecessary heaviness

Rather than asking one product to do everything, ACTIIV designs each serum to do exactly what your hair needs — exceptionally well.

Bottom Line

• Choose ACTIIV Water-Based Thickening Hair Serum for lightweight, scalp-focused support and fuller-looking hair. Shop Water-Based Hair Serum

• Choose ACTIIV Oil-Based Hair Serum if you have textured hair that needs richer nourishment, moisture retention, and curl support. Shop Oil-Based Hair Serum