It was our pleasure to interview Dr. Jessica Welzel about SalonLab&Me. As our in-house expert from the lab, she has worked closely on the research and development that has brought these unique products to life. We asked her:
What makes SalonLab&Me so special?
The development of our SalonLab&Me formulas has emphasised the need to take different hair types and hair damage into account when looking for the right products to develop personalised haircare routines.
What causes hair damage?
Hair can become damaged in a number of different ways. One example would be UV radiation from sunlight. Another would be chemical damage from the use of bleaching agents, for example. Then there's mechanical damage from hair being brushed too often. We developed SalonLab&Me formulas precisely because of these different types of damage, so that we can give all our customers the exact product regime their hair needs.
How can SalonLab&Me repair my hair?
With the help of Tribond Technology, among other things. This 3-dimensional repair technology improves and strengthens hair from the inside out.
Why should I always incorporate a conditioner or mask into my haircare routine?
Shampoo is primarily designed to clean your hair and scalp; conditioners and masks play a different role, taking care of the look and manageability of your hair.
Conditioners and masks are rich in conditioning agents that, among other things, coat the surface of the hair. They ensure the surface of the hair is smooth and supple (hydrophobic), making your hair easier to brush and giving it more shine. They also have a positive effect on flyaway hair, reducing the amount of static electricity.
These care products also contain ingredients that have the potential to penetrate the hair and strengthen it from the inside out. These benefits are especially important for damaged and stressed hair, producing an immediate effect. At the same time further damage, such as from harsh brushing, can also be prevented. Over the longer term, a regular haircare routine that includes a conditioner and mask can strengthen hair and effectively prevent hair breakage.
What is your own haircare routine like?
My very fine hair requires tailored care. One tip I have, is to combine lathering shampoo with a gentle scalp massage. This stimulates blood flow and invigorates the hair follicles. So that my hair does not get weighed down, I only use conditioner on the ends – this is the most damaged part of my hair and using a conditioner makes it easier to brush.
I don't colour my hair, so this is enough. I also use a mask for an extra burst of care once a month. This can be a mask that contains colour pigments, even though I don't have coloured hair; it’s an easy way to create new shades in my hair without permanently changing it!
"Combine lathering shampoo with a gentle scalp massage. This stimulates blood flow and invigorates the hair follicles."
What is your top tip for healthy hair?
Healthy hair is not the result of just one thing. In addition to the benefits of conditioners and masks mentioned above, wet hair should be handled with great love and care; only brushed and combed gently, as it is especially fragile. To make wet hair easier to brush, a leave-in or spray conditioner should be used.
If you regularly use hair straighteners or curlers, then don't forget to use a heat protection product. It is applied to towel-dried hair prior to the use of hot styling tools.
Nutrition can also contribute to healthy hair. A balanced diet is the most important thing. There is little evidence to suggest that dietary supplements provide any benefits to healthy people who are not malnourished. In general, a balance of nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, fats and proteins all contribute to healthy hair.