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The 16 Best Hair Growth Shampoos Of 2023 For Every Hair Type

Alexandra Engler
Author: Expert reviewer:
Updated on May 18, 2023
Alexandra Engler
mbg Beauty Director
By Alexandra Engler
mbg Beauty Director
Alexandra Engler is the beauty director at mindbodygreen and host of the beauty podcast Clean Beauty School. Previously, she's held beauty roles at Harper's Bazaar, Marie Claire, SELF, and Cosmopolitan; her byline has appeared in Esquire, Sports Illustrated, and Allure.com.
Bridgette Hill
Expert review by
Bridgette Hill
Trichologist
Bridgette Hill is a trained and certified trichologist with 20 years of experience as an editorial stylist and a top colorist for some of the world’s most recognizable heads of hair.
Last updated on May 18, 2023
Our editors have independently chosen the products listed on this page. If you purchase something mentioned in this article, we may earn a small commission.

If lush, thriving hair is your priority, a good shampoo needs to be at the top of your list: A good cleanser is the foundation of every hair care routine. And for growth in particular it has an even more important function. A clean, refreshed scalp is vital to keep the hair follicle in good condition—and by allowing buildup to accumulate, you risk the chance of increased shedding. On the flip side, however, you want to make sure the hair fiber isn't stripped in the process: Dry, brittle hair leads to breakage—putting a halt to any lengthening or fullness goals. 

It's a tall order, finding a shampoo that meets those requirements. Additionally, everyone has their own unique hair types and quirks—like if you highlight your hair, you'll want something that can tend to the color as well. 

But you've come to the right place: Here, our favorite shampoos for hair growth, broken down by individualized categories. 

Can shampoo make your hair grow?

Hair growth is influenced by many factors, from your genes to stress, environment, nutrition, scalp health, and the products you use. It's always best to approach any beauty goal from a holistic perspective—so we encourage you to think about all of these variables when crafting your hair care routine. There's no one, single magic elixir that will do it all for you. 

However, as part of that well-rounded routine, a shampoo that encourages hair growth is a wonderful addition. Shampoos play a very important role in hair growth as they are your primary scalp products, and having a clean scalp is high on the list of priorities. 

When you neglect washing the scalp, it can lead to oxidative stress. "This oxidative stress will affect the quality of your hair growth. It happens when you have product, dirt, and oil building up around your follicle opening—which is where your hair grows out of—and that buildup starts to slowly suffocate your hair root," says trained trichologist and hairstylist Shab Reslan

So at the very least, shampoos can encourage a healthy environment for hair by making sure the follicles are free of debris. Many shampoos go a step further by adding ingredients that strengthen or hydrate the hair fiber, which won't actively stimulate growth but will care for the strands you do have (and then limit breakage down the line). You can look for things like humectants, proteins, lipids (like from plant oils), castor oil, and antioxidants. 

Finally, shampoos can also infuse ingredients to stimulate growth itself: There's growing research that some plant-based actives (like peppermint oil, rosemary oil, and peptides) may improve growth rate and thickness. 

In short: Shampoos can play a role in hair growth, among many other things. So if growth is your primary goal, absolutely look into one of these options below—but you should also address other factors like nutrition, stress, sleep, etc. 

Our picks for the hair growth shampoos of 2023:

Best overall: Vegamour Gro Revitalizing Shampoo

Pros

  • Fuller-looking hair in 90 days

Cons

  • Contains essential oils if you're sensitive to those

Ingredient considerations::

All sulfate-freePlant-derived cleansersAntioxidantsProteinsCruelty-freeVeganBiotinPlant oilsPhyto-actives

This brand's cult-favorite hair growth serum has amassed a huge, loyal following thanks to its efficacy. Well, those powerful plant-based ingredients make a star appearance in this gentle shampoo: The micro-encapsulated phyto-actives penetrate the scalp, delivering the nourishing growth-enhancing ingredients. What makes it particularly useful for damaged hair is the vegan silk protein complex that helps smooth and restore damaged strands with continued use. As if that's not enough, wild-harvested marula, baobab, and ximenia oils further condition the hair, too. 

What board-certified dermatologist Neera Nathan, M.D., says about the formula: 

“It is really important to be as gentle as possible when handling hair, and also to use products that will help to minimize the effects of breakage or external damage. Karmatin can coat the hair and help protect from some of this daily damage.”

Best for scalp: Nutrafol Root Purifier Shampoo

Pros

  • Contains prebiotics to feed the scalp microbiome
  • Clinical results show it reduces dryness and flakes

Cons

  • Pricey, especially with the set

Ingredient considerations::

All sulfate-freePlant-derived cleansersAntioxidantsProteinsCruelty-freeVeganPlant oilsPhyto-actives

From the makers of hair-focused nutraceuticals comes this scalp-focused shampoo. Since a healthy scalp is a vital part of the hair growth equation, finding a shampoo that nurtures the environment is top priority. This helps restore the pH and microbiome of the skin in the area, resulting in balanced sebum production and improved hydration—with clinical results to back it.

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Best for fine hair: Briogeo Blossom Bloom Ginseng Biotin Volumizing Shampoo

Pros

  • 94% naturally-derived

Cons

  • Some found it to be drying for the scalp

Ingredient considerations::

All sulfate-freePlant-derived cleansersAntioxidantsCruelty-freeVeganBiotinPlant oilsPhyto-actives

While fine hair and thin hair are often used synonymously, there’s technically a difference. Fine hair refers to the diameter of the strand itself, while thin refers to the density (or how many strands you have on your head). So when speaking about the needs of fine hair in particular, you should find formulas that will give hair lift and won’t weigh the style down with too much moisture or heaviness. This shampoo offers a deep clean, lightweight hydration, as well as feeding it antioxidants and biotin—somehow, all in one bottle. 

What our tester says:

“This definitely helps my hair appear fuller. After regular use, I got a few comments that my hair was looking thicker lately—which is always a nice surprise. While the hair healthy-ingredients are certainly helping, I also suspect it has something to do with the addition of ​​maltodextrin—a starch-like substance that creates a film-like coating on the hair, which thickens the strands and gives the appearance of a volume.”  – mbg beauty director Alexandra Engler

Best for regrowth: Harklinikken Restorative Shampoo

Pros

  • Naturally-derived
  • Highly effective

Cons

  • Pricey
  • Contains SCS, a coconut-derived sulfate, if you avoid all sulfates

Ingredient considerations::

SLS- & SLES-freePlant-derived cleansersAntioxidantsFragrance-freePlant oilsPhyto-actives

Harklinikken is a hair growth clinic internationally renowned for its innovative botanical ingredients and astounding results. The brand takes in-person and remote appointments to create a personalized treatment plan—and if you’re looking for serious hair regrowth, it’s worth considering—but you can also get a lower-dose version of the formula with its hair care line. The restorative shampoo in particular uses the same actives found in the famously effective special scalp treatment: burdock root, flavonoids, and glycosides.

What our tester says: 

“When I was dealing with significant hair loss several years ago, I was introduced to Harklinikken by a hairstylist who encouraged me to get on their routine. The full system includes a customized treatment, shampoo, etcetera, and it truly brought life and fullness back to my hair. I’ve been grateful to the brand ever since, and recommend them to anyone who is dealing with hair loss themselves. While I’m not currently doing the full system, I still occasionally will cycle in their shampoo to stimulate hair growth as maintenance. Recently I called in a bottle to re-test, and can confirm it’s as effective as always.”  – mbg beauty director Alexandra Engler


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Best budget: Not Your Mother’s Way To Grow Shampoo

Pros

  • Color-safe

Pros

  • Contains fragrance, if you’re sensitive

Ingredient considerations::

All sulfate-freePlant-derived cleansersAntioxidantsProteinsCruelty-freeVeganBiotin

With a light lather that’s never drying, this gentle number is safe enough for daily use. It’s infused with biotin, vitamin B5 (also called panthenol), and a protein complex to strengthen the hair fiber while also neutralizing free radicals at the scalp. This means the hair you do have is less prone to breakage, and the scalp is in prime condition for healthy growth. For those who appreciate scents—this juicy one is not to be missed, with light, easy notes of jasmine, red apple, and peach. 

What our tester says: 

“An exceptional shampoo for its price point, this quality shampoo lathers nicely and gently cleans the hair. My scalp and hair fiber don’t feel stripped after, but it definitely removes buildup effectively.”  – mbg beauty director Alexandra Engler


Best for curly hair: L’Oreal Paris Elvive Dream Lengths Curls Micellar Shampoo

Pros

  • Targeted nozzle for easy application to the scalp

Cons

  • Some are sensitive to salicylic acid

Ingredient considerations::

All sulfate-freeCastor oilHyaluronic acid

Thanks to a few innovative highlights, this option is perfect for those with curly or coily hair. The sulfate-free formula uses micellar water and salicylic acid to lift off buildup and sebum on the scalp; then the hyaluronic acid and castor oil help lock in long-lasting moisture for the skin and hair. The result is a refreshed scalp and bouncy defined curls.

What our tester says: 

“I love micellar water in shampoos—such a smart ingredient to utilize for the scalp. Micellar water is able to dissolve oil and debris without drying out the hair. My natural hair toggles between wavy and curly (I’m about 2b to 3b), and is very dry and breakage prone, so I’m always looking for formulas that aren’t too harsh just like this one. Bonus: The nozzle applicator makes it so easy to apply directly to the scalp.” – mbg beauty director Alexandra Engler 


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Best for color-treated hair: Olaplex No. 4 Bond Maintenance Shampoo

Pros

  • Reduces frizz

Cons

  • Contains fragrance if you’re sensitive

Ingredient considerations::

All sulfate-freePlant-derived cleansersAntioxidantsAmino acidsCruelty-freeVeganBiotinRosemary extractPlant oils

The go-to brand of hair colorists everywhere, Olaplex’s bond-building technology mends damaged hair fiber to encourage healthy hair growth. This is particularly important for color treated hair, as the process is notoriously hard on the cuticles (and why you may experience increased shedding and breakage post coloring appointment if you’re not mindful). The strengthening technology is used throughout the line, including this gentle shampoo.

What our tester says: 

“As someone who spent 5-plus years bleaching their hair, I’ve grown to know Olaplex very well. The bond building technology really does help reduce breakage, especially if you’re someone who has fragile hair to begin with. I’m not currently coloring my hair, but still like keeping this shampoo in my rotation for a strengthening boost. Also: If you’re someone who does bleach their hair, check out the purple version — one of the better purple shampoos out there.”  – mbg beauty director Alexandra Engler


Best for natural hair: Shea Moisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil

Pros

  • Full of timeless & hair-healthy ingredients

Cons

  • Not for daily use

Ingredient considerations::

All sulfate-freePlant-derived cleansersAntioxidantsCruelty-freeVeganCastor oilPlant oilsPhyto-actives

Castor oil has long been hailed as the secret to achieving long, flowing locks. (Certainly, the oil can help keep your strands conditioned, and therefore less prone to breakage. You can read more about the science behind the ingredient here.) This shampoo uses it as it’s namesake ingredient, plus a few other actives that aid the scalp and hair itself. For example, the refreshing peppermint oil has been shown to be beneficial for the scalp, with some research indicating it can boost circulation and growth. Apple cider vinegar balances pH and provides shine. Shea butter gives a boost of moisture. All around a solid pick. 

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Best for strengthening: Moerie Mineral Shampoo

Pros

  • 25,000 testimonials & reviews

Cons

  • Works best when used with the entire line (which can be pricey)

Ingredient considerations::

SLS- & SLES-freePlant-derived cleansersAntioxidantsAmino acidsCruelty-freeVeganBiotinPlant oilsPhyto-actives

This jam-packed formula feeds strands loads of ingredients to bolster hair from all angles. It uses a plant-derived glycerol, a humectant, for hydration. Then it’s enriched with 70+ fulvic minerals and 18 amino acids to infuse strength. There’s also several vitamins to fight free radicals and neutralize oxidative stress. Finally, it’s rounded out with biotin and caffeine to encourage hair growth. It’s topped with orange extracts for a delightfully bright scent. 

Best for men: Aveda Invanti Nourishing Exfoliating Shampoo

Pros

  • 94% naturally derived

Cons

  • Salicylic acid can be strong for sensitive skin

Ingredient considerations::

All sulfate-freePlant-derived cleansersAntioxidantsAmino acidsCruelty-freeVeganPlant oilsPhyto-actives

Break down oil, buildup, product, and dead skin with this exfoliating cleanser. The formula contains a wintergreen-derived salicylic acid; the BHA effectively break down oils, which will helps unclog pores and clears out hair follicles. (As we’ve covered: A clean, fresh scalp is essential for hair growth.) It’s also infused with turmeric and ginger for anti-inflammatory properties.    

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Best for breakage: Virtue Flourish Shampoo for Healthy Hair Growth

Pros

  • Effectively mends damage
  • Instant gratification (your hair feels so soft after use)

Cons

  • Silicone heavy

Ingredient considerations::

All sulfate-freePlant-derived cleansersAntioxidantsProteinsCruelty-freeVegan

The clean line uses a unique ingredient called Alpha Keratin 60ku CLINICAL® Protein that is almost bioidentical to the keratin that makes up your hair fibers. This protein is better able to attach onto the hair fiber, where it can fill in gaps due to breakage, heat damage, and so on. Truly: This helps hair look and feel renewed. In addition to this smart protein, this sulfate-free shampoo uses a signal peptide that encourages a robust environment for hair growth, hyaluronic acid for scalp hydration, and red algae extract to keep the hair soft. All around, an all-star formula. 

What our tester says: 

“From the first time I tried this brand several years ago, I have been impressed by the unique protein that helps reduce hair breakage and damage. This newer collection, which specifically targets growth and fullness, also contains additional ingredients to stimulate and support the hair follicle like signal peptides and red algae. While it can be challenging to get wow-worthy results from wash-off products, this shampoo always makes my hair at least look fuller. Worth noting that it’s a joy to use: It has a thick, but not too sudsy, lather and smells like you’re in a spa.” — mindbodygreen beauty director Alexandra Engler



Best clarifying: K18 Hair PEPTIDE PREP™ detox shampoo

Pros

  • pH optimized
  • Color safe

Cons

  • If you wash your hair daily, you probably don’t need a clarifying shampoo

Ingredient considerations::

All sulfate-freePlant-derived cleansersAntioxidantsCruelty-freeVegan

Clarifying shampoos are basically superpowered shampoos that help remove product buildup, oil, and minerals that gunk up the hair follicle and coat the strands. (A reminder: clogged pores on the scalp can lead to hair loss.) Clarifying shampoos should be used by folks who use a lot of styling products day-to-day, don’t wash their hair that often, or are affected by hard water. However, these run the risk of stripping the hair and causing damage—so it’s important to find one that protects the integrity of the hair fiber. This formula uses activated charcoal and salicylic acid to remove buildup, alongside the brand’s signature peptide that repairs the hair shaft.

Best thickening: Bondi Boost Hair Thickening Therapy Shampoo

Pros

  • The base is a soothing, hydrating aloe
  • Contains antioxidants for free radical protection

Cons

  • Some complaints that it smells like hair dye

Ingredient considerations::

All sulfate-freePlant-derived cleansersAntioxidantsAmino acidsFragrance-freeCruelty-freeVeganBiotinCastor oilRosemary extractPlant oilsPhyto-actives

If a thick, full head of hair is what you’re after, this plant-powered formula delivers on volume. It’s made with a blend of phyto-actives that can support hair growth, such as biotin and rosemary extracts. But it doesn’t stop there, it also contains ingredients that help strengthen the hair shaft as well (castor oil, ceramics, and amino acids, for example), so the hair you do have remains full and breakage-free.

Best drugstore: OGX Thick & Full + Biotin & Collagen Volumizing Shampoo

Pros

  • Budget-friendly price point

Cons

  • Contains PEGs if you avoid those
  • Contains fragrance with undisclosed ingredients

Ingredient considerations::

All sulfate-freePlant-derived cleansersAntioxidantsAmino acidsProteinsCruelty-freeVeganBiotin

One of my favorite drugstore brands, OGX always delivered meaningful formulas with high-quality ingredients at an affordable price. Their Thick & Full line is ideal for folks who have thinning hair looking for a boost. This uses amino acids from collagen and wheat proteins to help strengthen the hair, while biotin (a B vitamin) helps support the hair follicles.

Best pre shampoo treatment: JVN Hair Complete Pre-Wash Scalp Oil

Pros

  • 1% for the Planet member
  • Can support hair growth without weighing down the roots
  • Silicone free

Cons

  • While pre-shampoos are very beneficial for the scalp, they do add another step to the process. Probably not ideal for those who stick to the minimum.

Ingredient considerations::

All sulfate-freeAntioxidantsCruelty-freeVeganRosemary extractPlant oilsPhyto-actives

Pre-shampoo treatments, like this excellent option from JVN Hair, are applied before you hop in the shower (as the moniker might suggest). Do so about 10-20 minutes before and massage it into the scalp, letting the actives sink in. This does a few things: First, it feeds the scalp ingredients such as rosemary extract and turmeric, both of which can support healthy hair growth. Second, the plant oils (like squalane) help coat the hair fibers so they’re better protected while under the spray of the shower. Finally, you get all these hair healthy benefits without having to deal with greasy roots, because you’re doing the treatment before the shampoo!

Best customizable: Prose Custom Shampoo

Pros

  • Have a subscription model in case you end up loving your formula

Cons

  • Since it’s customizable, you have to order through them—can’t get it off-the-shelf or through a retailer

Ingredient considerations::

All sulfate-freeFragrance-freeCruelty-freeVeganCustomizable

If hair growth is only one of your needs, you may want to look into getting a customized shampoo. Prose is the most famous for a reason: The easy-to-use test helps you determine what suits your goals best, creating a nutrient dense formula perfect for you. They have several ingredients that can help your hair appear thicker and healthier, like amino acids and antioxidant rich plant oils.

Comparing hair growth shampoos

How we picked

Clean formulas

Everyone has their own definition of clean, but of the below section most leave out the major questionable ingredients (such as parabens, sulfates, and phthalates). Most go far beyond that and follow EU guidelines or other standards set out by organizations.

Smart actives

These contain ingredients that help encourage hair growth by stimulating the scalp, keep the hair follicle clear to make sure the environment is right for growth, and strengthen the existing hair fiber.

Editor tested & user recommended

The following has been tested by mbg staffers or experts or comes with high praise from real users.

Variety

All hair is unique, and everyone's needs are different. We selected a wide variety to cover all hair types and price points.

Ingredients that can encourage hair growth:

The primary job of a shampoo is to clean the scalp, so the most important ingredients are going to be the cleaning agents (such as surfactants). But for hair growth shampoos in particular, you’re going to want to look for additional ingredients that stimulate the scalp, feed the skin and follicle nutrients, and protect the hair fiber.

  • Rosemary. Triple board-certified dermatologist Mamina Turegano, M.D. recommends rosemary, as it is an effective herb for stimulating circulation on the scalp—which, in turn, has the potential to spur hair growth. In fact, a 2015 randomized comparative trial found that rosemary essential oil was just as effective1 as minoxidil. 
  • Peptides. Peptides are chains of amino acids linked together by peptide bonds. Certain peptides are known as signal peptides and can encourage certain behaviors in the skin, such as hair growth. For example, APN5 peptide has recently been shown to be effective in promoting hair growth and suppressing hair loss symptoms. However, more research is needed to identify which peptides can help with hair in particular. 
  • Caffeine. Board-certified dermatologist Raechele Cochran Gathers, M.D., who specializes in hair care and founded MDHairMixtress, recommends caffeine for hair growth. According to the International Journal of Trichology, topical caffeine2 has the ability to not only stimulate the scalp, but also provides antioxidant properties to address hair shedding2. In fact, one 2018 study shows that a caffeine-based liquid topical can be just as effective as minoxidil3, as well.  
  • Amino acids. Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins, such as keratin. Using them topically can help strengthen the hair fiber.
  • Antioxidants. Inflammation in the scalp can lead to loss, so it’s vital we use calming ingredients that can reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the skin. Antioxidants can play a huge role in this. Look for options like niacinamide, vitamin E, and panthenol. Botanical oils and extracts often have antioxidants as well, such as aloe, argan oil, jojoba oil, and more. 

Treatments for hair loss 

Like we’ve noted, shampoo alone cannot single-handedly fix hair loss. For best results you need a well-rounded hair care routine that supports growth from multiple angles. 

We believe that if you want healthy hair long term, it’s vital to use both lifestyle remedies and high-quality hair products as part of your routine. 

And for many, professional intervention is needed. If you feel that might be you, there are treatments to consider. Here, the most notable.

  1. Minoxidil: This is one of the most famous treatments for male and female pattern baldness (it’s the active ingredient in Rogaine). At this time we don’t actually know the mechanisms behind why it works, but FDA-approved active is shown in clinicals to be very effective at hair regrowth4. However, hair shedding will occur once you stop using it5. It’s found in prescription strength and OTC versions. 
  2. Finasteride: This FDA-approved prescription treatment works by decreasing the hormone dihydrotestosterone610 (DHT) in the area. (DHT is shown to cause thinning.) However, it comes with several side effects7, so consult your doctor to see if you think this option is right for you. 
  3. PRP: Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections have been shown to improve hair growth. The process involves drawing your own blood, which is then put into a centrifuge to separate the platelets from the other components of the blood. According to board-certified dermatologist Joshua Zeichner, M.D., "PRP is an all-natural treatment because it uses growth factors derived from your own blood. The growth factors act like fertilizer for your skin cells to help them behave to the best of their ability." However, they’re expensive and often considered painful depending on your pain tolerance.

Always consult with your medicine practitioner, dermatologist, or hair care specialist about what route might be best for you.

FAQ

Which shampoo is best for hair growth?

There are many great options to choose from when looking for a shampoo for hair growth (the list above is a great place to start!). From there, it's really just about your personal priorities. If basic hair growth is what you are after, Vegamour's Gro Revitalizing Shampoo comes out on top. The formula uses innovative delivery technology and potent actives—and comes with clinical results to back it up. But other people may be looking for additional benefits: For those who color treat their hair, Olaplex No. 4 Bond Maintenance Shampoo will keep the hair fiber strong and dye fresh. For those with curls and coils, L'Oreal Paris Elvive Dream Lengths Curls Micellar Shampoo adds some spring. And for those with limp roots, Briogeo Blossom Bloom Ginseng Biotin Volumizing Shampoo adds loads of lift. For more, check out our full list.

Can hair growth shampoo really work?

Hair growth is influenced by many factors (genetics, stress, sleep, topicals, and nutrition—just to name a few). So no single product is going to be a magic, missing step. For healthy hair growth, you need to think holistically. However, shampoos can be an important part of a broader routine. 

Hair growth shampoos work in three ways. The first is by cleaning the scalp and therefore creating a healthy environment for hair. The second is by strengthening and fortifying the strands that you do have. The final step is by feeding the follicle-stimulating ingredients that can encourage growth. 

So if you find a shampoo that can address these three angles, yes, hair growth shampoos can work as part of a larger routine to improve length and fullness. 

What makes hair grow faster?

To really encourage length, you have to think of it in two steps: Stimulating growth and keeping the hair you do have healthy. First, make sure your scalp is clean and hydrated. An irritated scalp—caused by scalp tension, buildup, oxidative stress, and certain scalp conditions—can lead to hair loss or thinning. To do this, find a gentle yet effective shampoo and wash regularly. You can also use hair growth serums to stimulate the hair follicle (look for ingredients like rosemary, peptides, amino acids, and antioxidants). You’ll also want to prioritize circulation to the area—a simple way is daily scalp massage. For lifestyle habits, be sure to eat a nutrient-dense diet, get adequate sleep, and manage stress.


The takeaway

If hair growth is your primary goal, you need to craft a smart routine from top to bottom. That starts with a shampoo, like one of the above. To take your hair growth plan to the next level, check out our favorite hair growth serums

Meet The Experts

Alexandra Engler is the beauty director at mindbodygreen and host of the beauty podcast Clean Beauty School. Previously, she's held beauty roles at Harper's Bazaar, Marie Claire, SELF, and Cosmopolitan; her byline has appeared in Esquire, Sports Illustrated, and Allure.com.
Bridgette Hill is a trained and certified trichologist with 20 years of experience as an editorial stylist and a top colorist for some of the world’s most recognizable heads of hair.