Whether anyone wants to admit it or not, there are scientists who are behind these hair products. They understand each chemical. They know the right combination of compounds to help meet the desired effect on someone’s hair. And on the other hand, hairstylists know how to put the products to good use! They always know how to take the same Paul Mitchell products we use at home and deliver stunning results at the salon. But trouncing someone because they are asking for actual proof besides an obviously self-promoting website is so juvenile! And the sad thing is that the moderator was actually DEFENDING Paul Mitchell to begin with. Nonsense!

Sarah above nailed it right on the head with this:

“Understand that the beauty brains are scientists who know a lot about the science of cosmetic ingredients. They have studied sciences at a more advanced level than professional stylists. Although professional stylists, of course, are better skilled in hairstyling and professional color treatment than the beauty brains, they do not have as advanced a knowledge of science generally, and for that reason, they may not always have the broader scientific knowledge base that one would need to separate myth from fact when it comes to information that is passed on to them or that they are given by the manufacturers–about products, what’s in them, and how it works or fails to work. That isn’t a lack of intelligence or good sense, it’s just a difference in the nature of the stylist’s educational curriculum when compared to a chemist’s program of study. ”

I am in my 5th year studying biochemistry and molecular biology, and it’s just amazing how much I have improved my hairs health by just applying some of the in depth knowledge I have gained and changing up products. Nevertheless, I still follow my stylist’s advice at times. She was the one that introduced me to start using the skinny serum 4 years ago or so and most recently the fast form. After usage, my hair looks lovely and has such a nice shine and bounce. However, I have had a very hard time growing my hair out ever since using these products, and I know it’s not because I’m using it wrong. My stylist actually worked with me, practiced with me, and taught me how to do everything myself, as I am busy at school most of the time and can’t drive down to her often. I also buy all of my PM products from the salon. Always.

Though I know *scientifically* stress and aging can be serious factors in my non existent hair growth, I do know that when I actually pay attention to products I am using and change out a Paul Mitchell product and/or switch to a sulfate free shampoo, a couple months later there is noticeable growth and my hair is healthier.

I think what people need to realize is that even if Its A 10, Nioxin, Pantene, Giovanni, or Paul Mitchell have amazing product lines and advertising, it doesn’t mean that every product is going to be right for you. If you try a product and it gives you gosh-awful results, try to create a better circumstance to use it or get someone professional to show you how to use it. If it still doesn’t work for your hair, find something else! Paul Mitchell isn’t the only company that makes better than average products. And quite frankly, there are other companies that are in the same price range or a little more that have gotten wise and steer clear from the sulfates, alcohols, and other ridiculous hair-harmful chemicals.