Hops Are the Underrated Ingredient Brewing Up Your Best Skin and Hair Yet—Here’s How

First, What Even Are Hops?

We know that hops are integral in the beer brewing process, but that is about where our expertise on hops ends. Esthetician Sonya Savage explains: “Hops are the cone-shaped flowers of the Humulus lupulus plant, aka the stuff that makes beer bitter. But outside the brewery, hops are a low-key powerhouse in skincare and hair care. They’re packed with antioxidants, calming compounds, and essential oils that help soothe, balance, and beautify.” Who would’ve guessed?

Hops do it all, and they’ve been around for ages. “Originally used by monks in the 9th century to preserve beer and improve its flavor, they later discovered that hops had calming, antibacterial, and even anti-aging properties—making them a natural powerhouse in beauty routines too,” says beauty expert Angelina Jarboe.

6 Major Benefits of Hops for Your Skin

1. Hops Can Help Soothe Inflammation

Because of their anti-inflammatory properties, hops are ideal for stressed-out and irritated skin types. Facialist Fiona Brackenbury shares that when incorporated into a skincare routine, hops-based skincare products can “reduce inflammation, redness, and bring comfort and soothe irritated, stressed skin.” So if you have tried everything and nothing seems to work, maybe try hops-infused skincare.

2. They Can Help Control Breakouts

Those with acne-prone skin who struggle with blemishes will appreciate this benefit: Because of their antibacterial properties, hops help get rid of pimples. Whether you use a toner (like the ÉPICÉ INTERNATIONAL Restorative Toner) or a cleanser, Jarboe says they help support a clear, healthy complexion.

3. Hops Can Regulate Oil Production

All glow, no grease. One of the best properties of hops is their ability to balance sebum production, notes Savage, which means those with oily skin will notice less sheen on their face when they use hops in their skincare routine. A great product to start with is the ELEMIS Skin Buff (featuring hops extract), which helps slough off dead skin cells, dirt, oil, and grime to leave you with a baby-soft complexion.

4. They Can Help Firm & Tone Skin

Retinol is often the go-to for anything pertaining to skin aging, but hops can also help. As it turns out, “some studies show hops can support collagen production, giving skin a firmer, more lifted look over time,” says Savage. Even if you’re hoping to prevent premature aging, you can incorporate hops into your routine to reap the benefits of this nourishing plant.

5. Hops Provide Antioxidant Protection

Environmental stressors wreak havoc on your skin. From the weather to pollution, the world is not a safe place for your complexion. That’s where hops come in to save your face. “Hops are rich in xanthohumol, a powerful antioxidant that helps fight off skin-aging free radicals,” Savage shares.

6. Hops Can Help Hydrate Dry Skin

Dry skin got you down? Not anymore! “Hops have humectant properties, bringing hydration to dehydrated skin,” says Brackenbury. Their moisturizing properties will restore your skin’s health to ensure your complexion stays quenched all year long.

5 Major Benefits of Hops for Your Hair

1. Hops Can Help Strengthen Hair Follicles

When it comes to hair health, Savage shares that “hops deliver essential nutrients that help fortify the hair follicle.” By strengthening the follicles, you’re setting yourself up for healthier hair. After all, better hair starts at the root.

2. They Can Help Boost Hair Growth

With a stronger root structure, there’s the possibility of boosting hair growth. Savage also points out, “They help improve blood flow to the scalp, supporting healthy growth.” The BUMBLE AND BUMBLE Tonic Lotion, which features humulus lupulus (aka hops), acts as a detangler but also stimulates hair growth with the addition of rosemary and peppermint leaf extracts.

3. They Can Soothe Scalp Issues

Once again, the anti-inflammatory effects and antimicrobial properties of hops come to the rescue of those with sensitive scalps. Flakes, irritation, psoriasis—hops can help. “For those dealing with excess oil or a flaky scalp, hops can help bring balance by regulating sebum production and easing dandruff—making it a great addition to a variety of hair types and needs,” says Jarboe.

4. Hops Add Volume and Shine

“Houston, we have liftoff,” is what those of you with limp strands will be saying after you try hops in your washing routine. We suggest the BETTER NOT YOUNGER Wake Up Call Volumizing Conditioner to boost volume. Apart from adding body, hops can also make strands shinier, according to both Jarboe and Savage.

5. Hops Can Help Reduce Hair Shedding

Shedding is stressful. Thankfully, you can reduce it with the help of hops. Because they make your hair follicles healthier, “you are prone to less breakage and fallout,” notes Savage.

Some Things to Keep in Mind Before Adding Hops to Your Beauty Routine

Hops offer many benefits for your hair and skin, but are they right for everyone? Rest assured, they are. “Because hops is such a gentle, plant-based ingredient, I really do feel it can work well for just about any skin type,” says Jarboe. “It’s especially great for those with sensitive skin, and it can also be super beneficial for mature, oily, or acne-prone skin.” Still, the experts do stress the importance of a patch test or a discussion with your dermatologist prior to using any hops-based skincare product. “Always better to be safe than sorry,” Savage stresses.

Another key thing to keep in mind is the active ingredients in a product. You don’t want to put just anything on your skin or in your hair. “The ingredient check matters more than most people realize,” shares Jarboe. “Clean, well-formulated products from trusted, transparent brands are essential for achieving real results. And while many botanical ingredients offer amazing benefits, it’s equally important to recognize that sensitivities and allergies can occur with any product. If you experience irritation or a reaction, always stop using it immediately and consult a professional if needed.”

Final Thoughts on Hops

Moral of the story? Hops are an all-star ingredient, however, you should do your due diligence to ensure you’re using the right products for your skin and hair needs. And if something is messing with your microbiome, toss it out and try something else. The beauty of beauty is that there are endless products to try for any skin and hair concern.