A few months ago, I was picked by Sweidsh beauty store Kicks to try out the Kérastase Genesis Anti-Chute Fortifiant Serum. They sent me a full-size bottle in exchange for an honest review on their website. I’m not required to share my thoughts here, but I found it fitting since I’ve already discussed and reviewed the Kérastase Extensioniste and Initialiste scalp and hair serums on my blog — and my experience with Genesis turned out quite different.
Kérastase Genesis Serum
It was about three years ago that I started adding hair serums into my routine. After COVID (or maybe the vaccine), I experienced some severe but temporary hair shedding. Being someone who cared a lot about skincare, but not as much about hair and scalp health, using a serum felt like a natural next step. I really loved Kérastase serums at first, but they are pricey and don’t last long. I liked the Extensioniste serum, but even at 50ml, it barely lasted me three months with twice-a-week use.
The Genesis Serum had been on my wishlist for a while, but because Kérastase serums are such an investment, I hadn’t circled back to it. So you can imagine how excited I was when I was selected as a tester — especially as I was going through a Hashimoto’s/Hypothyroid flare-up. I wasn’t experiencing heavy hair loss, but I was curious if this serum could help prevent it from escalating.
Key Ingredients Breakdown
The Kérastase Genesis Serum is marketed as a Daily Anti-Hair-Fall Fortifying Serum, specifically designed for weakened hair prone to falling due to breakage. What makes it stand out is its combination of three key ingredients that are meant to strengthen hair fibers and support a healthier scalp environment:
- Aminexil
This is the star ingredient when it comes to reducing hair fall caused by breakage. Aminexil is known to help anchor the hair root more firmly into the scalp, which in theory should minimize excessive shedding over time. - Edelweiss Native Cells
Edelweiss is a resilient flower that thrives in extreme conditions. In haircare, Edelweiss cells are prized for their antioxidant properties, helping to protect hair fibers against external aggressors and daily wear, making hair more resistant to damage. - Ginger Root Extract
Ginger is commonly used in scalp treatments for its stimulating and soothing properties. It helps improve scalp microcirculation, which can promote a healthier scalp barrier and support new hair growth.
This trio of ingredients is designed to strengthen hair at the root, reduce breakage, and create an overall environment for healthier hair growth. However, like with most haircare products, consistency is key — it’s not an overnight miracle, but rather a gradual process.
How I Used the Serum
I’ve been applying the Genesis Serum after every wash (about 2–3 times per week) for the past two months. I massage it directly into my scalp, sometimes on damp hair, sometimes dry. Even though Kérastase recommends daily use, I stuck to the same routine that worked well for me with Extensioniste and Initialiste. Personally, I’d still suggest applying it on damp hair for best absorption..
First Impressions
The texture is gel-like, but not as lotion-y as Extensioniste or Initialiste. It’s thick enough to control and doesn’t drip all over — huge plus for me since watery serums are a nightmare to work with.
But… the scent was a bit of a shock. Compared to Extensioniste and Initialiste, Genesis is much stronger. It’s a unisex floral scent, but quite pungent — almost like a men’s cologne. Some days it feels borderline headache-inducing. But others around you will compliment you on how good you smell.
Results Over Time
After two months, I can’t say I’ve noticed a major reduction in hair shedding. It’s tricky to judge density as well because summer frizz tends to give the illusion of more volume. However, I remember that it took at least 4–6 months to see noticeable results with their other serums, so I might be too early in judging.
But there’s a catch — and it might explain why I’m not seeing better results. Unlike with Extensioniste and Initialiste, Genesis made my scalp itch after application. I tested applying it on both wet and dry hair, and the itchiness happened either way. Whenever I stopped using it, the irritation would subside, but as soon as I applied it again, the problem returned.
It’s frustrating because one of the things I’ve always appreciated about Kérastase serums is how they soothed my scalp rather than irritated it. I’m not sure if it’s the Aminexil or some other ingredient in the formula, but whatever it is, it doesn’t agree with my scalp. For reference, neither Extensioniste nor Initialiste ever caused this reaction.
What I Liked vs. What I Didn’t
👍🏻Pros:
- Thick, easy-to-apply consistency
- Large 90ml bottle (more generous than their other serums)
- Potential to reduce shedding even without using the full Genesis range
👎🏻Cons:
- Strong, pungent scent compared to other Kérastase serums
- Scalp itchiness after application (big issue for me)
- Pricey if you plan on using it daily
Conclusion
The Kérastase Genesis Serum definitely has potential, especially with its active ingredients aimed at reducing hair fall. I love the larger bottle size and the user-friendly consistency. However, the strong fragrance and the scalp irritation are dealbreakers for me. I still have over half the bottle left, and honestly, I’m torn between trying to finish it or passing it on to someone else.
The irony is… I feel like I need the Potentialiste Serum to calm down the irritation Genesis is giving me. 😂
