Hair Tips

  ANTIDOTE 1848 Hair Care, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Wisconsin (BBBSNEW), and Freshair Salon in De Pere are proud to announce a partnership to help children feel more confident this season.  Together, we are helping children realize their potential and confidently build their futures through one-to-one mentoring.  Our “Show us your #FreshairLook” program focuses on self-esteem and self-care.  And a portion of ANTIDOTE 1848 sales in November go to support Big Brothers Big Sisters. “We believe that positive self-care using healthy, high quality products that are friendly to the environment helps builds confidence .... Bringing our missions together to help celebrate kid confidence is a natural fit,” shared Christopher Jensen, Freshair Salon owner and ANTIDOTE 1848 Hair Care ambassador. Participating Littles will join their Bigs at a special “slime” (shampoo) making workshop on November 3 and get free haircuts from Freshair salon and ANTIDOTE 1848 Hair Care. The #FRESHairLook campaign culminates with Bigs and Littles on the red carpet at Taste of the Town on Nov. 8 where they will greet guests and share what they learned. “Anything that Big Brothers Big Sisters can do help children feel more confident, especially with the challenges so many children face today, is a benefit,” said Katie Hess, BBBSNEW executive director. “We are proud to partner with Freshair Salon and ANTIDOTE 1848 Hair Care  to give our Littles one more opportunity to be their best selves, and with their Bigs at the side, what could be better?”  Join us or make a donation to support this important work! ANTIDOTE 1848 is a line of organic, plant-based hair care products made with environmentally friendly processes. The line was developed by Wisconsinites Abigail Kuehl and David Calle. More information is available at antidote1848.com. Freshair Salon is a full service hair and skin care salon founded in De Pere in 2004 by stylist Christopher Jensen. More information is available at freshair-salon.com. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Wisconsin is the premier youth mentoring organization serving Brown, Door and Shawano counties, serving more than 600 children in 2018. Our mission is to create and support one-to-one mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth. Founded in 1972, we are a 100 percent donor and volunteer supported nonprofit organization. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Wisconsin, 520 N Broadway St., Suite 220, Green Bay, WI 54303, (920) 498-2227

Congratulations to Nyce & Luna Salon for bringing ANTIDOTE 1848 to beautiful Cary, North Carolina! Rachel Nyce, master stylist and salon owner, shares her excitement, "ANTIDOTE provides a safe and effective system to provide my guests (and myself) with a total haircare routine. Not only are the ingredients superfoods for the hair and scalp, they smell AMAZING." We recently sat down with Rachel to learn more about her and here's what she had to say... How did you get into the beauty industry? I knew at age 14 that I wanted to be a hair stylist. My stylist at the time was my inspiration. I knew I wanted to work with people and provide them with joy somehow and what better way than provide the joy of fabulous healthy hair! I did go to college first (for Marketing) and upon graduation immediately started hair school and haven't looked back. It was the best decision I have ever made.  Describe your approach to beauty? Beauty is something that is unique to each individual. While we all generally try to "beautify" the same things about ourselves, it is still an individual expression. This is how I approach beauty. Each guest is different....their style...their hobbies...their routines. Beauty has to be tailored to the individual. Describe your approach to health? Health is wealth. I've always loved this mantra because it's true. At the end of the day, when everything else fades away we have our family, friends, and our health. It's important be proactive in all areas of our lives to promote health, not just the physical, but the emotional and mental as well. By using ANTIDOTE 1848 and providing it to my guests I know that is one way I can help to promote a healthy lifestyle choice. Why do you use ANTIDOTE products? In a world full of chemicals and irritants its makes me feel so good to know that ANTIDOTE has our back and can offer us an all natural, plant based, AND locally sourced brand. What we use everyday on ourselves is important. I feel safe knowing I get to use ANTIDOTE's family of products. I also LOVE boss babes and creative thinkers so I love the fact that every purchase that my guests and myself makes supports an awesome company.  What is your favorite ANTIDOTE product? Do I have to pick just one? I was dreading getting to this question because I haven't tried one that I don't like! I've never had that experience with a brand before. If I HAD to choose just one....I would say the Jojoba Hair Repair Conditioner......and the Ginseng shampoo (I can't get enough of the smell)…..and the Goldenseal Hair Protector. Ok I picked three! Your favorite vegetable is… Depends on the time of year but all year round I love to snack on radishes! Cary, North Carolina lies at the heart of the Research Triangle that includes Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hill.  With a thriving community offering arts, festivals, sports, shopping - and Nyce & Luna Salon with ANTIDOTE - it’s no surprise that MONEY magazine has ranked Cary as one of the country’s “Best Places to Live.” Make your appointment with Rachel here.

Whether your hair is curly, straight, fine or full - whether it is long, short, or non-existent – ANTIDOTE has tips for everyone this season.  Collecting shells and pebbles on a beach is good for the soul. Summer is hard on hair. Heat, sun, wind, humidity, sweat, chlorine, and salt water make hair dry and dull, and stress the scalp. We sat down with a few of ANTIDOTE’s professional stylists to hear what they had to say.  Here are their best tips for great summer hair. Cocktails all around! Christopher Jensen of Freshair salon suggests "cocktailing" products for a personalized look.  “For example, I mix a volumizing gel and hair cream together on naturally curly hair for wonderful ringlets of curls.” Christopher’s favorite mix for summer uses ANTIDOTE’s Sandalwood Multi-styler with Avocado Styling Cream. “I like the ANTIDOTE line because the products can be combined in different ways - the natural ingredients and fragrances blend well together.”  Use protection or stay in the shade.  To protect your hair from the elements, use ANTIDOTE Goldenseal Hair Protector, a leave-in hair heat and environmental bodyguard.  Golden seal extract and shea butter guard against heat styling and UV exposure, reduce tangles, and condition hair.  Trey Rosenkranz of Triple Three Wellness reminds us, “it’s important to embrace warmer weather - play outside as much as you can and explore nature. But beware of the sun.” Avoiding sun exposure can be as simple as wearing a fun hat or colorful scarf.  Head wraps are in right now – and there are so many great styles to choose from. Trey explains, “When you don’t want to wear a hat or sun blocking clothing, there is nothing like a good sunscreen. Look for Oxybenzone & Octinoxate free ones –  these are safe for coral reefs.  My favorite site for information on sunscreens is EWG.”  Sunscreens are always improving.  Check out EWG's Guide to Sunscreens for the latest. Keep it clean. “Whether you’ve been to the pool, lake, or ocean, make sure to wash your hair afterwards to remove chlorine, salts, and chemicals that naturally occur in water,” explains Raina Wells of Tailored Muse Salon.  “Look for SLS free shampoos because they won’t dry your hair the way that traditional shampoos will. The secret to getting good lather with these is to make sure that your hair is saturated with water.  One of my favorites is ANTIDOTE’s Rosemary Detox Shampoo. I use it a few times each week, then follow up with ANTIDOTE Chamomile Conditioner to add back good moisture. Jojoba and sandalwood oil naturally moisturize and protect summer hair.Moisturize and protect. While washing out chemicals like chlorine is important, don’t over wash!  Liv Mueller of Divine Salon explains, “You want to keep your body’s natural oils if you can. Oils that come from the scalp are produced for a reason, and can help dry brittle hair.” Look for conditioners and styling products with natural, cold-pressed oils. These penetrate the hair shaft to strengthen from within. Liv notes, “ANTIDOTE Sandalwood Styler has been great for my clients on dry hair as well and acts as a de-frizzer. Note that any conditioner can be used as a leave in conditioner if used sparingly enough on towel dried hair.” And summer is a great time to give your blow drier a vacation! Start with a new style. According to Bold Salon’s Abigail Kuehl, “Summer is a great time to try on a new style.  For longer hair, my favorites are braids, high ponies, cornrows, and buns. Keep them loose to allow hair to flex.  These styles protect your hair from breakage.”   For shorter hair Abigail recommends going a bit shorter than usual. “Staying cool is about keeping your hair off of your face and neck.  These styles do that and protect fragile ends. I like that they work well with hats, scarves, and head wraps so that you can have fun with your look.” Whatever your hair type and style, get out there and enjoy the summer with these hair tips for everyone!

Looking for an amazing everyday shampoo and conditioner to restore moisture to dry hair and scalp?  We can’t wait for you to try ANTIDOTE Ginseng Shampoo and Conditioner!   Restores moisture Improves scalp and follicle health Ingredients are the best part of ANTIDOTE 1848: Wisconsin ginseng stimulates hair follicles and increases blood flow. Texas aloe vera soothes the scalp and promotes hair strength and shine. Coconut oil, rich in monounsaturated fatty acids, strengthens and protects hair against environmental stress.  We only use organic, cold pressed, raw coconut oil sourced from fair trade certified farmers. The shampoo uses a 4-part coconut based cleanser that is gentle but effective.  It is less irritating and can’t dry your scalp the way traditional sulfate shampoos do. And Vitamin E provides excellent antioxidant, moisturizing and soothing properties that reduce inflammation and repair damage to skin and hair follicles. The conditioner uses shea butter and fair trade coconut oil that won’t weigh hair down. It's easy to use... We recommend brushing hair before washing to stimulate blood flow and exfoliate the scalp. Shake shampoo well to make sure that you get a good dose of those great plant based ingredients.  Apply to wet hair and work from the roots out. Rinse.  After shampooing, apply conditioner to damp hair for 2-5 minutes. Rinse with cool water to close the hair cuticle.  A small amount can be used as a leave-in conditioner. People love this product’s citrus and cedarwood scent. We think that you will too! ANTIDOTE 1848 Ginseng Shampoo & Conditioner. Vegan. Cruelty-free. Color safe. Did you know… Wisconsin ginseng is the best in the world thanks to the unique soil and weather conditions in Marathon County. We get ours from family farms in Wausau. In a Mayo Clinic study, Wisconsin ginseng reduced fatigue in cancer patients. Wisconsin ginseng has been used in centuries old Chinese medicine remedies.  - Abigail + David

Of course, ANTIDOTE was born in Wisconsin!  It’s where we get our passion for the planet. After all, products that we use in our shower end up in our streams and rivers.  So healthier products for us also means cleaner water, healthier fish, and more wildlife!  That is why ANTIDOTE ingredients are selected with nature in mind – our goal is to restore balance for ourselves and our environment.  Wisconsin has a long tradition in environmental balance. From the first settlers to A Sand County Almanac to Earth Day. (Wisconsin Native American Indian Tribes Map, Great Lakes Intertribal Council) The first settlers got it. The area we now call Wisconsin was first settled by the Ojibwe, Potawatomi, Oneida, Menominee, and Ho-Chunk people.  While each had their unique relationship with nature, they shared a sustainability ethic. They thrived off of the land and rivers, yet cared for the land.  Award-winning poet Paula Gunn Allen explains, “We are the land ... that is the fundamental idea embedded in Native American life.... It is … a part of our being, dynamic, significant, real. It is our self ...  It is not a matter of being ‘close to nature’ ... The Earth is, in a very real sense, the same as our self (or selves) ... It is a matter of fact, one known equably from infancy, remembered and honored at levels of awareness that go beyond consciousness, and that extend long roots into primary levels of mind, language, perception and all the basic aspects of being ...” In modern times, Wisconsin has continued to play a leading role in protecting the environment. A book that changed the world.  "Long respected in his own fields of forestry and wildlife ecology, Leopold ..., in 1937, ... became focused on reaching the general public with his conservation message... of how the natural world worked and inspired them to take action to ensure the future health of the land and water that sustains all life."  - Aldo Leopold Foundation Aldo Leopold’s A Sand County Almanaccontinues to spark generations of environmentalists. Written in the 1940’s about Leopold’s home in Baraboo, Wisconsin, the book shows how a healthy planet is good for all – for our health, recreation, and our economy.  Leopold’s friendly writing style and thoughtful arguments made this a best-seller – selling over 2 million copies. Earth Day and the right to a healthy environment.  In the 1960’s, US Senator Gaylord Nelson proposed a constitutional amendment that "Every person has the inalienable right to a decent environment."  He spearheaded the first Earth Day on April 22, 1970 with the belief that the more people understood about the environment, the more they would take better care of it and demand better protection. According to Earth Day Network, on that first Earth Day “20 million Americans took to the streets, parks, and auditoriums to demonstrate for a healthy, sustainable environment in massive coast-to-coast rallies.”  Today, Earth Day involves 5,000 environmental groups across 180+ countries and hundreds of millions of people. At ANTIDOTE 1848, we know that small things can make a big difference.  What we use to clean ourselves in our showers ends up in our streams, gets swallowed by fish who feed us and other living things.  In a world of harsh chemicals and artificial ingredients, ANTIDOTE plant powered products use ingredients that are better for people and the environment.  No matter what brand you choose, natural products are one small way we can all make a difference. Love the land!

Looking to add texture and medium hold to your shorter hair cut, that is also vegan and cruelty free?  Check out ANTIDOTE Sea Buckthorn Styling Clay! It’s easy to use.  Just warm a small amount in your palms, work through hair to get the desired style.  The trick is that hair clay should be layered. Use a small amount, you can always add more later. The best part of using clay is that it can be reworked all day. What makes ANTIDOTE Sea Buckthorn Styling Clay special?  It’s all about the combination of great ingredients. Sea buckthorn oil naturally nourishes. It is rich in vitamin E, amino acids, and fatty acids that are all good for your hair and scalp. Beeswax provides hold. Bentonite clay adds volume and texture – it is called “healing clay” by Native Americans for its purifying attributes. Vitamin B5 promotes hair strength and condition the ends of the hair. Sea Buckthorn Styling Clay’s earthy fragrance is one of our most popular. It’s like a spring day in the garden. Don’t take our word for it. According to hair styling expert, Robin James, “Clay hair products … are perfect for everyday hairstyle – loose, relaxed and re-workable.  The most commonly used clay is bentonite, a completely natural substance that forms from the weathering of volcanic ash.” James adds, “Bentonite can make the hair follicle look and feel thicker; whilst adding volume to all types of hair.  If you use a hair dryer, you can boost the volume even more in the hair.  Hair clay can help repair damaged hair and prevent dryness to the scalp.  This can in return help to promote hair growth!” Go ahead and style away! ANTIDOTE Sea Buckthorn Styling Clay comes in a 2oz black jar designed to protect the natural ingredients.. Color safe. Vegan. Cruelty-free. Gluten-free. One of our favorite posts on how to use clay:  

Looking for your perfect shampoo, conditioner, or styler?  A typical hair care line has over 200 products. In the last 30 years, the # of products in the average supermarket ballooned from 10,000 to 50,000.  No wonder most of us are confused about the right product for us. In a recent shopper survey, over one third found the array of choices “overwhelming.”  At ANTIDOTE 1848 we are committed to a tailored, continually improving line. We are always looking for the minimalist approach.  FIND YOUR ANTIDOTE! All ANTIDOTE shampoos and conditioner bases include aloe vera, color safe coconut cleansers, shea butter, and vitamin E.  You'll also find other good stuff - the finest organic, fair-trade, cold-processed ingredients and essential oils.  All formulas are cruelty-free, and nearly all formulas are vegan.  Since no formulas use harsh SLS detergents, bad paraben preservatives, or controversial phthalate plasticizers, you can feel good about any choice.  Remember, over 60% of what you put on your skin gets absorbed into your body. The first step is figuring out what your hair needs. Does your hair need moisture?  protein? Do you have sensitive skin? Looking to remove product build up? What style are you going for?   One of our favorite hair experts, Karen Marie Shelton, explains how to tell what your hair needs by taking a wet strand of hair:   "While holding the wet strand between two fingers, gently stretch it. When the strand of hair stretches slightly, returning to its original length without breaking, the moisture/protein levels are balanced.  If the hair stretches more than it should and then breaks, it’s likely your hair may need more protein. When the hair has very little stretch and easy breaks, you need more moisture.   When the strand test doesn’t give you clarification .., observe your hair closely for a few weeks. If your hair feels gooey, gummy, sticky, stringy, limp or doesn’t dry easily, it needs more protein. An overabundance of protein in the hair may also cause hair to feel hard, tough and prone to easy breakage. Conversely, if your hair feels brittle, hard, excessively dry, tangled, weak or all of the above, it needs moisture." Once you know what your hair needs, use this guide for the most common benefits and product recommendations. Strength:  If your hair needs protein, go with the Baobab + Quinoa Protein line.  This will add strengthening protein back into the hair. Be careful though, too much protein can weigh hair down and make it feel dirty. Moisture: If you hair is dry, try the Ginseng line.  It has fair trade coconut oil rich in monounsaturated fatty acids that strengthen and protect your hair. Deep clean: If your hair needs a deep clean from excess environmental damage, product build up, or oiliness, go with the Rosemary Detox Shampoo.  Apple Cider Vinegar and Rosemary oil will leave you with a clean slate.   Sensitive: If you have sensitive skin or react to certain chemicals, the Aloe line is for you.  Organic chamomile soothes and grape seed oil protects. These formulas are hypoallergenic and fragrance free. Repair: If you have really dry hair, restore it with Jojoba conditioner.  It’s blend of plant based oils penetrate the hair shaft to restore it from within. For deep conditioning, apply to wet hair and leave on for 5-10 min before rinsing out.  Note that if you have a lot of product build up or have been using silicone based products, the natural oils will not penetrate.  You may need to detox your hair first! Now that your hair is clean and conditioned, time to rock your look with a great style!  But, what styling product is right for me? Feel free to try a combination of products and mix it up seasonally.   Right now the Sandalwood Multi-styler, Goldenseal Hair Protector, and Vanilla Pomade are popular. Most of us have multiple goals, so feel free to mix up your shampoo/ conditioner/ styler combination. If you have dry hair that needs some protein, you might wash with Ginseng Shampoo and condition with Keratin Conditioner, then style with Sandalwood Styler and Burdock Root Spray Wax. Feel free to alternate products.  Be sure to change your routine seasonally.  Don't forget to ask your stylist for advice! For a personal consult, fill in the "Find your antidote" form and let's start a conversation.     -- Abigail + David PS. Don't forget to tell us what is working for you.

Looking to turn up the volume on your hair?  We think we’ve got what you need - ANTIDOTE 1848 Burdock Root Spray Wax.  ANTIDOTE Burdock Root Spray Wax adds volume and texture to any style. Just spray on your towel-dried hair from roots to ends, then blow dry to create a perfectly undone look.  You can also use ANTIDOTE Burdock Root Spray Wax on dry hair! Spray 10-12 inches away and use your fingers to shape for a loose, tousled style.  For shorter styles, spray ANTIDOTE Burdock Root Spray Wax on damp or dry hair to add texture. We hope that you love its natural lemon peel, mint, and watercress scent as much as we do.   Volume High definition Flexible hold Matte finish Ingredients are the best part of ANTIDOTE, where plants deliver the “good stuff.” For strength and hold, a blend of plant proteins from corn, rice, and wheat strengthen hair and reinforce its structure. Sugar cane and wheat starch provide a natural, matte finish hold.  To condition hair, certified organic Burdock root and Horsetail Fern extracts are combined with Sunflower seed and Castor seed oil.  Burdock root extract in particular is known for its anti-bacterial and soothing properties.  Care about your hair. ANTIDOTE’s Burdock Root Spray Wax also protects hair from environmental factors that can fade color or cause premature degradation of the hair structure. Spray on!
 ANTIDOTE 1848 Burdock Root Spray Wax and turn up the volume.   Vegan. Made with certified organic ingredients. Pre-order now.  Ships March 2019. Did you know? Burdock root plays an important role in feeding the beautiful ghost moth.     --  Abigail + David, ANTIDOTE1848

Professional hair spray worthy of the ANTIDOTE 1848 brand name is here! No matter what style you create, ANTIDOTE Malva Hair Spray will keep it all in place with long-lasting, maximum-strength hold.  Malva Hair Spray is ANTIDOTE’s strongest hold – ready for another great hair day, a night on the town, or a special event. Spray over finished look for all day hold and humidity protection. Extreme hold provides excellent volume. 
 Controls static and resists humidity. Conditions with each application. 
 Use it the same way you use any hairspray.  As a styling spray, lightly spray onto hair and style as desired. Blow dry it into hair to add body and volume.  As a finishing spray, hold container 10 to 12 inches from hair and spray after you’ve got your desired look.  Ingredients are the best part of ANTIDOTE products.  Every ingredient is selected for how it will benefit you. Certified organic Malva flower, Lemon Peel, Burdock Root and Horsetail Fern extracts condition hair.   Did you know that Malva flower extract comes from cold-processing the flower, leaf, and stem.  This Swiss alpine plant’s polysaccharides also protect hair from environmental damage. Rice, corn, and wheat proteins coat hair to reinforce its structure and improve strength. Sunflower seed and Lemon peel extracts add shine. Go ahead and style away. Whether you are just looking for another great hair day, or preparing for a special event.  ANTIDOTE Malva Hair Spray is there for you. Finally, a hair spray worthy of the ANTIDOTE1848 name. Did you know that Malva (Mallow) flower grows in the Swiss alps.

We hope that 2019 is off to a good start for everyone!  Thanks for sharing your new year's resolutions.  One of our favorite's- Dry body brushing! This easy addition to any morning routine, takes about 5 minutes.  The results include improved skin health, reduced stress, increased energy, and better digestion.  Dry body brushing isn’t new. For centuries, Native Americans here in Wisconsin used brushes made from dried corn husks to improve circulation and skin health.  In Ayurvedic healing, dry massage is called Garshana. The Chinese integrated body brushing into their daily routines as an extension of eastern medicine.  Today’s techniques come from insights into how energy flows through the body. It’s fun and easy to do. Find a soft natural bristle brush that won't scratch.  Beginners should start with a softer brush. You might want several brushes – like an even softer brush for your face and tummy.  In general, take long, slow strokes and brush toward your heart.  To benefit, plan on brushing once per day. It's easy to do:  Brush the soles of your feet which include important pressure points that relate to the rest of your body Brush your legs in long strokes from your toes to the hips Brush your arms in long strokes from fingers to the shoulders Brush the back of your neck to your lower back Brush your throat from your chin to your chest Brush your sides in toward your heart Brush your tummy in a clockwise direction to follow the path of your colon Brush your ears with a soft brush – ears are full of pressure points How does it work?  Chinese medicine practitioner Matthew Scott explains why dry brushing works, “regular brushing clears away dead skin cells and improves skin tone and texture. The more substantial internal benefits, however, are due to the fact that the skin is the largest eliminative organ in the body. Regular brushing not only helps the skin to sweat away toxins, it also stimulates the underlying circulation of blood and lymph (a waste-removal fluid), which helps the body eliminate deeper level toxins.” ANTIDOTE Avocado Hair, Beard, and Body Oil complements body brushing. The Center for Accunpture and Herbal Medicine adds that brushing, "enables lymph to perform its house-cleaning duties by keeping the blood and other vital tissues detoxified.  In addition, skin brushing is highly stimulating to surface circulation of blood and leaves you feeling invigorated." Some people recommend adding a few drops of body oil to the skin before brushing. Watch-out! Because body brushing energizes, do not do it right before going to sleep.  And never brush your private or tender parts. Already a dry body brusher? We’d love to hear how you got into it… and keep the wellness tips coming in!    -- Abigail + David, ANTIDOTE1848 ANTIDOTE1848 Avocado Hair, Beard, and Body Oil

Introducing ANTIDOTE 1848 Sunflower Hair Spray! Light hold that conditions with each use. This unique formula uses a blend of plant based ingredients to create a light hold while also working to condition, strengthen, and protect hair. Grapefruit and verbena give it an uplifting scent.  It’s easy to use.  Use it as a styling spray by spritzing lightly onto hair, then work it through using your favorite styling technique. As a finishing spray, hold the container 10 to 12 inches from hair and spray after desired look is achieved. This formula conditions and strengthens as it holds, so reapply as needed. 
And of course, shake well before using. Controls static and resists humidity Fast drying styling flexibility 
 Brushes out easily to reduce breakage
 Ingredients are the best part of ANTIDOTE products.  ANTIDOTE Sunflower Hairspray is no different. Provitamin B5 and Vitamin E protect hair from environmental factors that can fade color or damage hair. 
 Sunflower, Sweet Almond, and Jojoba oil and certified organic Mallow flower and Horsetail fern extracts condition the hair shaft with each use. Vegetable derived proteins from corn and wheat penetrate the hair shaft to reinforce its structure and improve strength. ANTIDOTE 1848 Sunflower Hair Spray.  The guilt-free, non-aerosol hair spray. Plant-based ingredients to provide all day protection from the aging effects of oxidation, free-radical damage, and UV exposure.    -- Abigail + David, ANTIDOTE1848  

Go ahead and shake up... your hair care, that is!  Do you ever give your shampoo and conditioner a shake? After all, shampoos and conditioners are combinations of oil and water. In ANTIDOTE products, the oil phase contains things like rich plant oils like castor, jojoba, and coconut, and essential oils.  The water phase includes ingredients like aloe vera juice, cranberries, chamomile flowers, and ginseng root.  Through the production process, these two phases are blended together with a cleanser.  One part of a cleanser molecules is water soluble and the other part is oil soluble.  It is the cleanser that holds everything together.  ANTIDOTE uses 4-part coconut cleanser that is gentle but effective. We all know that oil and water don’t mix.  Over time, some of the components can start to separate.  A good shake is all it takes to put things back on track.  This doesn’t change the efficacy of the product – it is just a by-product of the natural ingredients. Why don’t we shake traditional shampoos? Traditional shampoos use harsh detergents with sulfates. These are are also used in dish soap and household cleaners.  They keep the oil and water phases together, but are also known irritants.  According to Livestrong's Max Roman Dilthey, "At a concentration of 15 percent with prolonged exposure, harmful effects on laboratory rats included skin irritation, depression, labored breathing, diarrhea... - A shampoo that contains sulfates typically has a concentration of around 15 percent."  If you see a product with the warning label: for external use only, avoid eye contact, keep out of reach of children.; it likely has sulfates. So go ahead - make sure that each dose of ANTIDOTE is full of the right balance of good stuff.  Feel free to shake your ANTIDOTE productsevery once in a while. Here are some of the natural ingredientsyou'll be shaking up with ANTIDOTE 1848.

Did you know that one teaspoon of charcoal has the surface area of a football field?  That’s what makes charcoal such a perfect ingredient for ANTIDOTE 1848 Charcoal Face & Body Wash.  Charcoal absorbs dirt and impurities. You’ll love thisall-purpose face and body wash.  It has the good stuff for smooth skin and an even complexion.    This formula starts with gentle coconut cleansers that clean without harsh sulfatesand a soothing aloe vera juice base - good for sensitive skin. Activated charcoal brings excess oil and impurities to the surface. Sweet almond oil keeps skin soft and hydrated. Vitamin B5 moisturizes, soothes, and heals skin. Vitamin E reduces inflammation and protects against the environment. Grapefruit seed oil has natural antiseptic properties and provides the key fragrance note. To use ANTIDOTE Charcoal Face & Body Wash, apply a few pumps onto a wet sponge or washcloth.  Apply to damp skin, and rinse. Always use a fresh clean cloth.  Damp, dirty cloths are breeding grounds for germs!  In terms of choosing a washcloth, StyleCaster’s Sable Yong explains, “Muslin cloths are great because they are gentle on skin and easy to rinse out and they quickly dry.  Bamboo and microfiber are also soft options.” Rub gently. Even the slightest pressure is perfect for removing dirt and dead skin.  If you see redness or feel irritation after washing your face, you’re probably scrubbing too hard. A gentle face washing should be time for you.  We love Sable’s tip for turning your face wash into a steam treatment. “One great thing washcloths can do pretty easily for you is a good steam. While cleaning your face, massage your cleanser onto your skin, but instead of rinsing right away, run your washcloth under the hottest water you can stand and wring it out but not completely. Lay the hot washcloth over your face and let it sit there for a bit steaming your cleanser into your pores. When it starts to chill off, just wipe away your cleanser.” ANTIDOTE Charcoal Face & Body Wash comes in 12 oz dark green PET bottles - their glass like appearance and dark color protect the natural ingredients in the product. For all skin types.  Color safe. Gluten-free. Cruelty-free. Vegan Go ahead and get clean!  

Change isn't always easy.  This saying holds true when it comes to switching to plant-based, natural hair and skin products.  I recently had a chance to sit down with master stylist Abigail Kuehl to talk about making the transition. Don't panic! The daily use of the harsh detergents in most hair and skin products can cause irritation.  This signals your body to compensate by over-producing sebum.  Gentler cleansers allow your body to adjust back to normal level of sebum production, but this can take a few days or weeks.  Being consistent in your use of plant based shampoo allows your body to bet back to a more balanced state.  "Initially, you might experience more oily hair if your body has been overproducing sebum.  Don't panic! After a few days or weeks, your body will adjust.  We think it is worth the wait since a healthier scalp and happy hair follicles ultimately mean better hair and skin," explains Kuehl. Restore from within Restoring hair strength from within can take time too, especially for over-worked hair. Traditional products are full of heavy silicones that coat the hair.  This provides an instant result of thicker, fuller hair.  Kuehl, "Silicones build up on hair to the point that I can scrape it off with my cutting scissors.  That build up actually weakens the hair shaft and makes it more susceptible to breakage." Shai Amiel, Celebrity Hairstylist & Owner, CAPELLA Salon explains, “Silicone will weigh the hair down, making it limp, lifeless, and, with time, very dull. It prevents moisture from penetrating the hair shaft and becomes like a magnet for dirt and other ingredients. With time it will dry the hair out because it won’t allow in the conditioner and it ends up sitting on the surface.” What's the alternative? Formulas rich in natural oils like grape seed, coconut, jojoba, and avocado work by absorbing into the hair shaft. They restore hair strength from within. The transition process can take a few weeks.  First you have to remove the layers of build up, and then give your hair time to pull in the natural oils. Work with your professional stylist to determine the right mix of products for you.  Change up your product routine seasonally. Are you ready to make the change?    -- Abigail + David, ANTIDOTE1848

The castor plant – also known as African Coffee Tree and Mexico Weed – has several sides.  On one hand, the plant contains highly poisonous ricin - the stuff in spy movies.  On the other hand, castor beans are also half oil that has natural antibacterial and antifungal properties - high in Vitamin E and Omega 6. The the castor plant also adds a tropical touch to the garden, valued for its dramatic big leaves and colorful seed pods.

Don’t let dry or split ends get you down… ANTIDOTE 1848 Sweet Almond Styling Cream to the rescue. Smoothing leave-in conditioning cream. Reduces frizz Conditions dry ends without weighing hair down Repairs split ends To use, just work a small dab of ANTIDOTE Almond Stying Cream into palms and apply to dry or damp hair. Blow dry into hair to reduce frizz and enhance textured hair.  Let air dry for a medium shine. Ingredients are the best part of ANTIDOTE products: Sweet almond oil moisturizes and softens hair.It is rich in Vitamin E, a powerful anti-oxidant that protects against environmental and heat damage. Provitamin B5 promotes hair shine and reduces split ends when caught early. Cedarwood oil balances hair and scalp and is a natural antiseptic.   It’s hard being the end of a hair strand.  Washing, drying, brushing, and the environment mean that hair gets knocked around a lot. Dry and split ends are the natural by-product of this.  We developed ANTIDOTE Sweet Almond Styling Cream to give your hair a chance to return to its healthiest state. Beauty educator, Shalott Cecchini, explains split ends, “These come about when the cuticle of the hair is worn or damaged, exposing the cortical cells underneath. Since the cortical cells are substantially weaker than the cuticle, the strained hair tends to split…. A sign of friction, and hair dehydration.”  If caught early, dry and split ends can be repaired with hair masks, deep conditioners, and leave in conditioners.  Limiting heat styling helps too.  You’ll know it is too late if you see branch shaped splits.  Cecchini recommends, “to prevent the dreaded tree split… consider cutting at least a few inches every six to eight weeks in order to keep your hair in tip-top shape.”

Of course, it's great to hear from professional stylists - they have the education and experience to help us look our best.  To change it up, it's also fun to hear how "civilians" use products every day - a great way to get inspiration.  Thanks to Ryan and Marshall for sharing their advice about how they get that salon look even when they don't have time to go to the salon. Here they talk about using a matte pomade. Here's what they had to say about getting a low maintenance, style it and forget it look for the day. R: So tell me about what you do and what you use? ANTIDOTE Styling Clay uses carnauba wax from the Brazilian carnauba palm. The plant produces wax to protect the leaves from damage during hot, dry weather. M: For me, it's all about a low maintenance matte look, I don't like using a comb or brush - just set the style using my hands and fingers. My goal is to get a look that I can rely on for the day. For that I use a matte pomade from ANTIDOTE. This one has carnauba wax, it's not sticky but gives a firm hold.  I grab a nickel sized amount, rub in in my hands until it is smooth, then just rub it through my hair.  On wetter hair, it gives a smoother look.  On dry hair, it adds more texture.  That's how I like to use it. R: Matte vs. regular? M: I don't like a lot of shine, so it's why I go with the matte product.  I just want a nice low-key hold, so this is right for me. R: Looks like your ready to crush your business? M: What I like about this product is I can put it in and not have to think about it again. It's not getting hard and crunchy.  It just looks natural. Here's to plant-powered hair products! Watch more ANTIDOTE videos on our YouTube channel here. We'd love to hear your product tips!

ANTIDOTE Goldenseal Hair Protector preserves the richness and vibrancy of salon color while improving manageability – a "must have” for your haircare tool kit. All it takes is to mist throughout clean, towel-dried hair before styling. Shake well to make sure you get a rich blend of ingredients. Protects hair from heat styling and environmental stress Preserves salon color Works on all hair types. How ANTIDOTE Goldenseal Hair Protector works: Goldenseal, rose flower, and horsetail fern extracts condition hair.  Algae and White tea leaf extracts and Provitamin B5 protect hair from environmental factors that can fade color and cause premature degradation of the hair structure.  
 Soy and Rice proteins restore strength. Shea butter, sunflower seed extract, and castor oil add a protective moisture barrier to seal the hair shaft and increase shine. Our hair is under attack every day.  In addition to blow drying, hot irons, and hair coloring, we’ve also got the sun, wind, humidity, and air pollution.  Studies show that all of these factors damage hair’s cuticle – its protective outer layer - and cause the loss of proteins that give hair its strength.  Damage to color treated hair can be especially noticeable in the loss of shine and vibrancy. Go ahead, have fun with your hair.  Protect it with ANTIDOTE 1848 Goldenseal Hair Protector. Pre-order now.  Ships March 2019. Did you know? Goldenseal, native to the Ohio River valley, has been used as a healing plant by native Americans for thousands of years. It takes five to seven years to grow harvestable roots from seed. Sunshine is one of the most common causes of hair damage - protect it with ANTIDOTE Goldenseal Hair Protector.     -- Abigail + David, ANTIDOTE1848

Spring means it's time to shake up your morning routine.  Nothing starts a day off better than a glass of natural goodness.  Abigail's current favorite is full of micro-nutrients and protein to last all morning.   Inspired by one if its ingredients - bee pollen - Abigail's "Bee" Well Smoothie is a mix of: Bee pollen (about 2 tablespoons) Organic spinach (a big handful) Organic Blueberries (use frozen ones for best results) Avocado (one) Pineapple (use frozen for best results) Pea protein (one scoop) Spring water Abigail puts all of her dry ingredients into her blender, then adds spring water until the container is 3/4 full.   Why does she love bee pollen?  "It's a great ingredient for me to talk with my kids about nature and connect them with the magic of bees.  Like did you know that bees are the only insect in the world that make food that humans can eat? or that a bee visits 2 million flowers to make 1 pound of honey?" According to Ryan Raman at Healthline, "Bee pollen has gained traction in the health community because it’s loaded with nutrients, amino acids, vitamins, lipids and over 250 active substances.  In fact, the Federal Ministry of Health in Germany recognizes bee pollen as a medicine.  Many studies have examined the health effects of bee pollen and found promising results." What's your favorite spring time recipe?  - David

Pomades have always been great for delivering tight, medium hold styles. The go to product when you want a “put together” style. Unfortunately, most pomades use damaging and irritating products like petroleum and mineral oil.  These weigh hair down and prevent beneficial conditioning oils to penetrate the hair shaft. Don’t be afraid, upgrade - with ANTIDOTE 1848 Vanilla Pomade and Carnauba Matte Pomade. Both ANTIDOTE pomades use Texas aloe vera to condition hair as they hold. Which one is right for you? The Vanilla Pomade: High hold Wet look Jojoba and sandalwood oils condition Friendly vanilla oil scent Carnauba Matte Pomade: Medium hold, dry finish Natural look Carnauba wax adds texture Shea butter conditions Swanky patchouli oil scent And they are easy to use: Work a small amount of product through your palms to warm it up.  Apply to damp hair from roots to ends.  Work well through hair to coat strands and style with your fingers or a comb.  The Carnauba Matte Pomade can be used on dry hair too.  During the day, you can refresh your look by running damp hands through your hair. Don’t just take our word for it.  Check out a couple of ANTIDOTE users talking about how they use ANTIDOTE pomades here. Upgrade your pomade with ANTIDOTE Vanilla Pomade and ANTIDOTE Carnauba Pomade.  Color safe. Vegan. Cruelty free. Gluten free.