Redken Laboratories, founded in 1960, is a company built from the
inspiration of a dynamic, entrepreneurial American actress named Paula
Kent.
Frequent chemical services and style changes were routine
for any aspiring actress of her day, but Paula was extra sensitive to
many of the products used by the hairdressers and make-up artists. She
felt continually frustrated that no one could explain why the products
were irritating. Necessity is the mother of invention, and Paula
realized that working with professional hairdressers, she could help
millions of other people also wanting high performance products that
were gentle.
Paula Kent and her hairdresser, Jheri Redding (thus the name "REDKEN")
began with three products and an intensive education program for
hairdressers about the chemistry of hair and skin. The formulas were
developed based on three principles:
Protein technology (since hair is composed primarily of protein)
An acidic pH of 4.5-5.5, complementing the natural pH of the hair and skin
Products recommended exclusively by licensed cosmetologists in professional salons
By 1965, Paula had full ownership of Redken Laboratories, based in
California. During the '70s and '80s, the company was a leader in
product technology in the US and abroad. In 1993, L'Oreal purchased
Redken and now its headquarters are on 5th Avenue NYC. Today, Redken is
a global leader in professional haircare products and services. The
company is energized with talented people, strong partnerships with the
best hairdressers, and superior Research and Development. Redken
products are now available in professional beauty salons in over 50
countries.
Redken's philosophy on beauty powered by science
Beginning in 1960, Redken revolutionized the professional salon
business by introducing the concept of protein reconditioning. Based on
evidence that hair is composed primarily of proteins, and can absorb
topically applied proteins, Redken developed new protein based
products. Salons were suddenly able to condition hair internally and
for the long-term rather than solely camouflage damage.
Redken soon began to develop patented protein technologies and now
holds over 60 global patents on products and ingredients. In fact,
Redken's two latest patents for protein technology are the basis for
our haircare and styling lines.
Patent #6,015,574 was issued for Redken's exclusive Interbond
Conditioning System. An integral part of Redken's haircare collection,
it provides simple solutions to specific needs by carrying highly
specialized ingredients to the hair. These ingredients help transform
the hair's inner structure while dramatically improving its outer
appearance.
Patent #6,013,250 was issued for Redken's new 3D Repair Complex, which
is in the EXTREME line of haircare products. Delivered by the Interbond
Conditioning System, the 3D Repair Complex includes proteins, ceramide
and natural lipids to help provide internal strength, cuticle
reinforcement and protective resurfacing to distressed hair.
And for the future...
Our commitment to formulate scientifically superior products for the
global salon community continues, and as we forge ahead in the
millennium, our awareness of fashion, street trends and modern hair
needs will only enhance our scientific strength.