What are preservatives and why are they important in Oribe products?

Preservatives are used in products to keep them safe and protect them from microbial growth (i.e., mold and bacteria). Though preservatives often get a bad reputation, they are very important to ensure product safety. There are many different types of preservatives. We comply with all safety regulations for all markets in which we are sold and choose the best preservatives for each product. Some that we do not formulate with are parabens, methylisothiazolinone (MI) / methylchloroisothiazolinone (MCI) and formaldehyde releasing preservatives such as DMDM hydantoin.

Why is alcohol in some Oribe products?

To maintain a high level of performance, a certain amount of alcohol is necessary in some formulations. For example, lightweight alcohol is usually critical for a product to dry fast. In addition, it is important to remember that not all alcohols are drying. There are some alcohols known as fatty alcohols that are used as emollients, such as cetyl, stearyl and cetearyl alcohol.

We strive to use the ideal amount of cosmetic-grade alcohols so that you can achieve the style you want without the negative effects sometimes associated with alcohols.

Why are ingredient lists sometimes different for the same product?
Ingredient lists may change from time to time. There any many reasons this may happen, including regulatory changes or ingredient sourcing. Though a specific ingredient may change, there will not be a noticeable difference in the product performance. It is possible that two versions of the same product may be on the shelf at the same time until the newer version is fully phased into inventory. For the most up to date ingredient list, please reference the product package itself. 

Are Oribe products sulfate-free?

When people talk about sulfates in hair care, they are primarily referring to sulfate-based ingredients that work as cleansers (surfactants and foaming agent) in shampoos, such as sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulfate (SLES). Sulfate-based surfactants can be harsh, stripping natural oils, depleting color and irritating the scalp. Sulfate-free surfactants are relatively milder, less stripping and less foaming.


As sulfate-free technology evolved and consumer mindsets changed, we have updated our portfolio so that all Oribe hair care products are now sulfate-free (SLES and SLS).

Are Oribe products color safe?

Though our Beautiful Color family focuses on color protection as the main benefit, our other hair care products are also safe for color treated hair.

Are Oribe products safe for keratin treated hair?

All Oribe products are formulated without intentionally added sodium chloride†, a common thickening agent and filler in the beauty industry that is known to negatively affect keratin treated hair. Because we do not formulate with this ingredient in our products, all Oribe products are safe for keratin treated hair.

† A trace amount of sodium chloride may be present as a byproduct from essential functional ingredients.

Do Oribe products have an expiration date?

Most Oribe products are tested to have a standard shelf life of three years (from date of manufacture) and/or PAO (period after opening) duration of one year. All Oribe products (except those listed below) do not carry an expiration date, but a PAO symbol on the product.

  • Serene Scalp Anti-Dandruff Shampoo has an expiration date printed at the bottom of the bottle or product carton.
  • Non-cosmetic products such as candles and incenses do not carry an expiration date or PAO.

Can Oribe products be used with hair extensions?
The rule of thumb with hair extensions is to never put a product with slip near the bond, tape or glue. However, because there are so many different brands and types of hair extensions in the market, we recommend that you ask your stylist before using a specific product with hair extensions.

What is the difference between UV and SPF protection?

SPF (sun protection factor) protection is a drug claim applicable to skin†. It is also a claim that requires a specific efficacy test to substantiate the SPF claim/rating. UV protection for hair is different. It refers to the physical benefit of UV filters that help protect hair strands (not skin or scalp) against potential damage (i.e., color fading) caused by sun exposure. Oribe hair care products are not formulated for or intended to offer SPF protection for skin. However, most Oribe products are formulated with one or more UV filters to help protect your hair against sun exposure.

† based on U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s drug monograph


Is the Oribe fragrance natural?
Our fragrance is a mix of natural and synthetic ingredients. At Oribe, we believe the use of certain synthetic materials is beneficial. In fact, in some instances they are a better alternative than their natural counterparts. A common misconception is that natural is always better than synthetic. However, this is not always true. Some natural fragrance ingredients may not be sustainable due to depletion of natural resources.

Are any Oribe products fragrance free?
Yes. We have two fragrance free products: Serene Scalp Soothing Leave-On Treatment and Serene Scalp Thickening Treatment Spray. We decided to make these leave-on products fragrance free because more often than not, people with scalp sensitivities are more likely to be sensitive to fragrance.


Are Oribe products natural?

Oribe is not an all natural cosmetic brand. We strive to formulate our products with the highest level of natural or naturally derived ingredients possible given the specific formula; however, product safety and performance are our primary goals.  We have an extensive list of restricted ingredients that we do not formulate with. Each product is carefully crafted with a blend of natural, naturally derived and the optimal synthetic (i.e., highly functional silicones) ingredients such that performance is never compromised. 


Are Oribe products “clean”?
Oribe does not position our brand to be a clean beauty brand because the definition of “clean beauty” differs from brand to brand, market to market and, most of all, is not regulated. For example, some ingredient(s) can be allowed in one brand’s “clean beauty” standard and yet prohibited by another. Oribe Hair Care’s focus is to formulate products with safe, high quality and innovative ingredients.

Are Oribe products vegan?

Most Oribe products are vegan friendly. This means they are only formulated with vegan friendly ingredients. Oribe products are not vegan certified because they are not manufactured in vegan certified facilities that produce only vegan goods. The following products are not vegan yet, but we are working to make them vegan friendly:

  • Rough Luxury Molding Wax
  • Rough Luxury Soft Molding Paste
  • Balmessence Lip Treatment

Does Oribe test on animals?

Oribe never tests on animals, only humans. Oribe is a proud member of the Beauty Without Bunnies Program created by People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA). We also do not use any raw material that are animal tested†.

† Consistent with seventh amendment to European Cosmetic Directive 1223/2009.


Are Oribe products gluten-free?

Our whole line is gluten-free*. Thanks to new technology, we are able to use gluten-free wheat-derived ingredients (such as wheat amino acids and hydrolyzed wheat protein) in some of our products. This means that you still get the benefits of the wheat, which is great for strengthening, but people with gluten allergies do not have to be concerned about being exposed to gluten.

* based on U.S. FDA’s definition for gluten-free.


Do Oribe products have heat protection?


Most of our products have heat protection benefits for hair. Four Oribe products were designed and tested for 450-degree Fahrenheit heat protection:

  • Invisible Defense Universal Protection Spray
  • Balm d'Or Heat Styling Shield
  • Straight Away Smoothing Blowout Cream
  • Mystify Restyling Spray


Why do Oribe products contain silicones?

As it stands today, there are not many options for silicone alternatives that provide the same anti-frizz, slip and shine benefits on the hair without being heavy and leaving the hair flat. Though silicones are synthetic as opposed to natural or naturally derived, when used at optimized and calibrated levels (which is how we use them), they are the best performers on hair for anti-frizz, slip and shine without leaving the hair greasy or flat. There are many different types of silicones. Some are heavier and more coating, while others are lightweight and do not build up. Amodimethicone, found in many of the conditioners and masques, for example, is a lightweight, water soluble silicone that rinses clean from the hair while providing slip and smoothing benefits.  


Is Oribe packaging recyclable?

The majority of Oribe packaging is recyclable if disposed of properly. We recommend that you consult your local recycling laws for more information.


Are Oribe products safe to use during pregnancy?

We always recommend that you consult your doctor if there is a concern around using our products during pregnancy.


Can I use Oribe products if I have an allergy to a specific ingredient?

We always recommend that you consult your doctor if there is any allergy concern before using our products.

Does Oribe.com offer expedited shipping?

At this time, we only offer Ground Shipping to comply with aerosol shipping restrictions.

What are the shipping costs?


Do you ship internationally?

At this time, we only offer domestic shipping. Orders containing Hazardous Materials can only be shipped to addresses within the Continental U.S. and cannot be shipped to Alaska, Hawaii, U.S. territories, or APO/FPO/DPO addresses. For abroad requests and shipping to Alaska, Hawaii, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, please call our office during business hours at 1-888-ORIBE-99 (1-888-674-2399) between Monday and Friday 9:30AM-5:30PM EST to find the closest Oribe retail location to you. Furthermore, we do not accept international credit cards as payment.

Do you ship to Canada?

At this time, we only offer US domestic shipping. Orders containing Hazardous Materials can only be shipped to addresses within the Continental U.S. and cannot be shipped to Alaska, Hawaii, U.S. territories, or APO/ FPO/DPO addresses.

What is an order’s typical transit time?

Orders take 1-5 business days transit time.

How do I track my order?

To check the status of your order, please reference the tracking number included in your shipping confirmation email. If you have questions about your order, please call us at 1-888-ORIBE-99 (1-888-674-2399) between Monday and Friday 9:30AM-5:30PM EST or email us at info@oribe.com and we would be happy to assist you.

What is the return policy?

Oribe.com offers products and services of integrity. Items purchased from Oribe.com must be returned to Oribe.com. Oribe.com can only accept refunds & returns for unopened or gently used items purchased from Oribe.com and must be made within 30 days from the date of receipt of product and with the original sales receipt. Refunds are credited to the original payment only.

All of our returns are processed at the below address:
Hopkins Distribution Company
ATTN Oribe Web Returns
1195 Trademark Drive
Reno, Nevada 89521

1. Oribe does NOT cover shipping costs for general returns.
2. If the wrong product and/or defective product was received, please email info@oribe.com to request a return label.

Why is my order marked as hazardous?

Any shipment containing aerosol is marked hazardous.

How long do refunds typically take?

Refund processing can take up to 7-10 full business days, not including your bank’s processing time.