Nutrafol, a leading player in hair health, has announced its expansion into the salon backbar channel with professional-sized versions of its Root Purifier Shampoo and Strand Defender Conditioner. This strategic move aims to meet the growing consumer demand for scalp health solutions and further the company’s mission to promote hair and scalp health.
“We were inspired to launch our professional-sized Root Purifier Shampoo and Strand Defender Conditioner with the growing consumer demand for scalp health treatments,” Sam Archer, VP of Product Development & Marketing at Nutrafol, told CosmeticsDesign.
“The salon channel has been intrinsic in our education with stylists from early on,” she explained, and “by introducing these new sizes into salon backbars, we’re providing more consumers with the opportunity to experience our clinically tested products while fostering conversations about scalp and hair health between clients and stylists.”
Meeting consumer and stylist needs
The salon environment plays a crucial role in Nutrafol’s broader mission. Stylists often serve as trusted advisors in the hair care journey, a fact that Nutrafol has integrated into its approach.
“Stylists are like chemists,” explained Archer. “As hair biology evolves, we work with them to understand the scalp microbiome and its impact on overall hair health.
“Launching these professional sizes supports this mission by empowering stylists to educate their clients during services,” she added.
Feedback from the professional community has been a driving factor behind the launch. “Our backbar products have been requested from stylists since we introduced the Root Purifier Shampoo and Strand Defender Conditioner in 2022,” she said.
As a result, she continued, “stylists now have the tools to provide educational tips on supporting hair health during their service, addressing consumer concerns with proven, physician-formulated solutions.”
Clinically proven efficacy
Nutrafol underscores the efficacy of its products with clinical studies. The Root Purifier Shampoo has demonstrated a 100% reduction in sebum and improved scalp conditions immediately after use, while also balancing scalp pH, Archer shared.
Meanwhile, the Strand Defender Conditioner has been shown to improve hydration and hair moisture, with 94% of users reporting their hair felt more hydrated after two weeks, she said. Both products are safe for color-treated hair and extensions, an essential consideration in professional settings.
“Our Root Purifier Shampoo supports the scalp microbiome, acting as an armor for hair follicles,” she noted, adding that “the Strand Defender Conditioner strengthens hair after it leaves the scalp, defending it against damage and promoting visible health and growth.”
A targeted approach to market expansion
Priced at $140 per liter, the professional sizes offer approximately 100 washes, equating to $2.80 per wash—a 24% savings compared to smaller retail formats. This pricing strategy benefits salon owners by delivering value while maintaining the premium positioning of Nutrafol’s award-winning formulas.
“We hope to increase our brand presence in professional beauty and wellness spaces by partnering with salons,” said Archer. “This expansion positions Nutrafol as a go-to, stylist-recommended choice for promoting hair health.”
Therefore, she concluded, “by offering these professional sizes, we aim to educate more consumers about the benefits and efficacy of our products.”
Nutrafol’s move into the salon backbar channel reflects its commitment to advancing hair and scalp health through education, clinical efficacy, and strategic partnerships with stylists. For cosmetics and personal care product manufacturers and suppliers, this development signals a rising focus on scalp health as a growth category and increased opportunities for collaboration in professional hair care settings.
With its science-driven approach and strong brand positioning, Nutrafol is poised to make a significant impact in the professional beauty and wellness market.
