Hair Tips

In the fast-paced world we live in, stress has become an almost inevitable part of our daily lives. From work deadlines to personal obligations, stress can manifest in various ways, including affecting our physical health, particularly our hair. Hair loss, a common concern for many, and can often be exacerbated by stress. Understanding this connection is crucial in managing hair loss effectively. Additionally, seeking natural solutions, such as Nettle Shampoo, can offer a gentle yet potent approach to maintaining healthy hair.      The Link Between Stress and Hair Loss Hair growth follows a cycle consisting of three phases: anagen (growth), catagen (transition), and telogen (resting). High levels of stress can disrupt this cycle, pushing more hair follicles into the telogen phase, where hair shedding occurs. This condition, known as telogen effluvium, can lead to noticeable hair thinning or even bald patches. Stress can also trigger or exacerbate other hair loss conditions like alopecia areata, an autoimmune disorder causing hair loss in patches. Chronic stress may further contribute to conditions like trichotillomania, a compulsive hair-pulling disorder, worsening hair loss. Nettle Shampoo: A Natural Remedy for Hair Loss Nettle, a plant with a long history of medicinal use, offers a natural solution for managing hair loss. Nettle extract is rich in nutrients like vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals such as iron and silica, all of which are beneficial for hair health. Here's how nettle shampoo can help: Stimulating Hair Growth: Nettle contains compounds that promote circulation to the scalp, ensuring better nutrient delivery to hair follicles. This increased blood flow can stimulate hair growth and strengthen existing hair strands. Reducing Inflammation: Inflammation of the scalp can contribute to hair loss. Nettle possesses anti-inflammatory properties that soothe the scalp, potentially alleviating conditions like dandruff and scalp irritation, which can hinder hair growth. Balancing Oil Production: Excessive oil production on the scalp can clog hair follicles and impede hair growth. Nettle helps regulate sebum production, keeping the scalp clean and promoting a healthy environment for hair growth. Nourishing the Scalp: The vitamins and minerals present in nettle nourish the scalp, promoting overall scalp health and creating optimal conditions for hair growth. Incorporating Nettle Shampoo into Your Haircare Routine Adding nettle shampoo to your haircare routine is simple and can be highly effective in managing hair loss naturally. Here are some tips for incorporating it into your regimen: Choose a Quality Product: Look for a nettle shampoo that contains natural ingredients and is free from harsh chemicals that can further damage your hair. Use Regularly: Consistency is key. Use nettle shampoo regularly as part of your haircare routine to reap its full benefits. Follow the instructions on the product label for best results. Pair with a Healthy Lifestyle: While nettle shampoo can help manage hair loss, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is essential for overall hair health. Eat a balanced diet, stay hydrated, manage stress through relaxation techniques like meditation or exercise, and get adequate sleep.   Stress can take a toll on our hair, leading to unwanted hair loss and thinning. Understanding the connection between stress and hair loss is the first step in addressing this issue effectively. Incorporating natural remedies like Nettle Shampoo into your haircare routine can provide a gentle yet potent solution for managing hair loss and promoting healthy hair growth. By taking proactive steps to care for your hair and manage stress, you can maintain a vibrant and luscious mane that reflects your inner well-being. XO,  Abigail + David    

When it comes to preparing for a workout, most of us think about stretching, warming up, and hydrating. But have you ever considered adding a cold shower to your pre-workout routine? While it may sound uncomfortable at first, taking a cold shower before exercising can offer a range of surprising benefits that can enhance your performance and overall fitness journey. Let’s find out the science-backed advantages of incorporating a cold shower into your workout routine.   1. Increased Alertness and Energy Boost: One of the immediate benefits of a cold shower is the invigorating effect it has on your body. The cold water stimulates your nervous system, leading to increased alertness and a sudden surge of energy. This can help you feel more awake and ready to tackle your workout with enthusiasm and focus.   2. Improved Circulation: Cold showers have been shown to improve blood circulation throughout the body. When exposed to cold water, your blood vessels constrict, which helps to push blood towards your vital organs. This enhanced circulation can improve the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to your muscles, promoting better performance and reducing the risk of injury.   3. Enhanced Recovery: Intense workouts often lead to muscle soreness and inflammation. Cold showers can help alleviate these post-workout symptoms by reducing inflammation and promoting faster recovery. The cold water helps to constrict blood vessels and flush out metabolic waste products, reducing muscle soreness and aiding in the repair process.    4. Increased Mental Resilience: Taking a cold shower before your workout can also help build mental resilience. Enduring the initial shock of the cold water can be a mental challenge, but it teaches you to push through discomfort and embrace discomfort. This mental toughness can translate into your workout, allowing you to push yourself harder and overcome physical barriers.    5. Fat Burning Potential: Cold showers have been linked to increased calorie burning and fat loss. When exposed to cold temperatures, your body activates brown fat, a type of fat that generates heat by burning calories. By incorporating cold showers into your routine, you may be able to boost your metabolism and promote fat burning.  While taking a cold shower before your workout may not be for everyone, it's worth considering the numerous benefits it offers. From increased alertness and energy to improved circulation and enhanced recovery, the advantages of a cold shower can greatly impact your fitness journey. Experiment with incorporating cold showers into your pre-workout routine and observe how it positively influences your performance and overall well-being.  Remember, always listen to your body and adjust your routine accordingly. Stay cool, stay motivated, and enjoy the benefits of a refreshing cold shower before your next workout!   XO,  Abigail + David

We always get this question this time of year.  "What's the best shampoo for winter?" This is the only time that we say "Run... don't walk." After all, winter is rough on skin and hair.  Outside it is cold and windy, inside we have dry heat and blow drying.  The combination results in unique challenges for scalp, skin, and hair.  Environmental stressors can tip the balance - even people with "normal" skin can find themselves moving into the sensitive skin area.   The goal with sensitive skin is to help it stay strong and resilient before it gets damaged and irritated.  Once your scalp gets dry and cracked, it is harder to restore it. The same goes for your hair - a broken strand takes a long time to recover. That's why the key to winter scalp and hair care is about nourishing and strengthening your body's natural systems: Look for natural ingredients that nourish and protect your skin and scalp, avoid harsh detergent based cleansers and fragrance Use natural plant based oils to build hair resilience and protect scalp and skin from the elements Change how you use products to match the season. For example, instead of rinsing out all of your conditioner, leave in a small amount to nourish and protect your hair all day. Looking for products that will do this for you?   Start with ANTIDOTE Nettle Shampoo - its hypoallergenic formula has all the goodies that make ANTIDOTE products great without artificial fragrance or color. Nettle Sensitive Shampoo provides a gentle and soothing experience for those with sensitive scalps. Enriched with the power of nettle, sage, and olive oil, this shampoo offers a unique formula that caters to the specific needs of sensitive hair and scalps. Nettle is renowned for its calming properties, which helps to alleviate itchiness and irritation, promoting a healthier scalp. Sage is great for its balancing qualities, which work to regulate oil production, ensuring that your hair stays refreshed. The ingredients in ANTIDOTE Nettle Shampoo provide a harmonious blend that nurtures your scalp and hair from roots to the tips. This shampoo is thoughtfully crafted with natural and organic ingredients, making it suitable for even the most sensitive scalps.  Hypo-allergenic, Unscented Gentle sulfate-free cleanser cleans without drying out hair + scalp Organic nettle and sage reduce scalp inflammation Organic olive oil naturally nourishes, controlling frizz and flyaways. Safe for color-treated or processed hair.  If your scalp feels sensitive this season, you're not alone.  Did you know that according to the National Institutes of Health, 45% of people report  "having 'sensitive' or 'very sensitive' skin." The study also found that "there was no significant difference related to geographic localization, age, or ethnic distribution." Most of us describe our sensitivity as resulting in dry skin with "higher skin reactivity to cosmetics and various environmental factors." Winter challenged hair and scalp is why we developed ANTIDOTE 1848 Nettle Shampoo and Conditioner. We've excluded ingredients known to trigger sensitivities like fragrance, sulfates, parabens, and harsh detergents - and added ingredients to soothe, heal, and protect. ANTIDOTE Nettle Shampoo is hypo-allergenic, fragrance-free, and sulfate-free.  After all, beautiful hair starts with a healthy scalp, and happy follicles.  SIMPLICITY TIP:  ANTIDOTE Nettle Shampoo is safe enough to use as a body wash. Happy Winter! Abigail

New Rosemary Shampoo for deep clean and conditioning New Ginseng Shampoo for moisture and protein New Nettle Shampoo for sensitive skin, with all the benefits of our Ginseng At ANTIDOTE, we are passionate about professional hair care that’s also good for you and the planet.  The “professional” in ANTIDOTE means a commitment to constantly improve, to offer the highest quality salon products.  By listening to your feedback and tapping into expert ANTIDOTE professionals, we find ways to make your life better, simpler.  At the same time, we continuously scan the field of botanical science, Ayurvedic techniques, and Eastern medicine to bring you healthful and effective natural ingredients. After months of formula testing, experimenting with new botanicals, and better mixing equipment, we are proud to share that we have new versions of ANTIDOOTE’s shampoos.  You’ll find them to more effective, streamlined on 3 core hair cleansing needs – everyday moisture, deep clean, and sensitive, and to be more consistent without settling over time, and.  If you are a current ANTIDOTE shampoo user, what you need to know: ANTIDOTE Ginseng Shampoo remains Ginseng Shampoo ANTIDOTE Rosemary Shampoo remains Rosemary Shampoo… ANTIDOTE Chamomile Shampoo is now Nettle Shampoo… If you used ANTIDOTE Baobab Shampoo, we learned that More about each: NEW Ginseng “Moisture” Shampoo If you liked ANTIDOTE’s Ginseng or Baobab Shampoo, you’ll love our new Ginseng Shampoo.  Treat your hair to a luxurious experience. Infused with organic Ginseng, Biotin, and Seaweed Extract, this daily moisture shampoo will nourish the scalp and fortify strands from root to ends, promoting healthy and long-term hair growth. Great for all hair types, particularly fine, thin, or dry hair, it is safe to use on color-treated hair as well. Pamper yourself with a shampoo that brings out the best in your hair.  We added Rice Protein and ProVitamin B5, so that if your hair needs extra protein (like our Baobab Shampoo users), this one’s for you. NEW Rosemary “Detox” Shampoo If you liked ANTIOTE’s Rosemary Shampoo, you’ll love this improved Rosemary Detox Shampoo. This deep cleaning shampoo gently cleanses to leave hair light and soft. Organic nettle and hemp oil naturally condition and protect hair. Wheat protein strengthens and fortifies hair cuticles. Invigorating Rosemary Essential Oil scent. Safe for color-treated hair.  With added protein, this one is also great for former Baobab Shampoo users looking for a deeper clean. NEW Nettle “Sensitive” Shampoo If you liked ANTIDOTE’s Chamomile Shampoo, you’ll love our new Nettle Sensitive Shampoo.  It provides a gentle and soothing experience for those with sensitive scalps.  Nettle is renowned for its calming properties, which helps to alleviate itchiness and irritation, promoting a healthier scalp. Sage is great for its balancing qualities, which work to regulate oil production, ensuring that your hair stays refreshed. Together these ingredients provide a harmonious blend that nurtures your scalp and hair from roots to the tips. At ANTIDOTE we believe that you can and should have it all – salon quality products that are better for you and the planet. As you know, plant based ingredients are more expensive and harder to work with.  For example, it is more difficult to blend natural ingredients so that products don’t need to be shaken.   That’s why so few companies work with the natural ingredients used in ANTIDOTE products.   Our commitment to plant based ingredients means we constantly strive to overcome these challenges.  What stays the same… Highest quality natural ingredients – sustainably sourced and organic wherever possible Shampoos that look and smell like the ingredients in them, not with artificial fragrance or color No harsh detergents and no harsh preservatives (ANTIDOTE products meet stringent Canadian safety rules where ~ 500 ingredients are banned for cosmetic use vs. ~ 10 in the US) Regular size shampoo pricing will remain the same. What’s different… All ANTIDOTE shampoos will be more consistent without settling over time thanks to better mixing equipment and formula tweaks, plus… Ginseng Shampoo has been improved for better moisture with Organic Jojoba and Olive Oils, Seaweed extract, and Rice Protein Rosemary Shampoo has better deep cleaning properties, now with Organic Sage and Calendula The sensitive skin line has been improved by adding Nettle - known for its anti-inflammatory properties - plus Hemp Seed Oil and Vitamin B5 to soothe and repair. (To mark this new formula, we’re changing the name of the line from Chamomile to Nettle.)  With these improvements, we have simplified the product line. Baobab Shampoo users can now switch to Ginseng Shampoo – for moisture - or the Rosemary Shampoo – for a deeper clean.  We added protein and Vitamin B5 to both.  Time to simplify your shower! Which shampoo is right for you? We always recommend starting with a clean slate.  Any professional stylist will tell you that removing environmental dirt and product build-up are the first step to great hair.  We designed Rosemary Detox Shampoo for this.  While how often you detox your hair does depend on your hair type and overall needs. A good rule of thumb is to use a detox shampoo once a week. Detoxing the hair is a good way to give your hair and scalp a clean slate from artificial products you may have been using – along with any dirt, impurities, and dead skin cells that can build up on your scalp. The Rosemary shampoo is formulated with organic Rosemary and Nettles that are rich in amino acids providing the hair with essential nutrients to the hair follicles. The Rosemary Shampoo is gentle enough to use every day.  For those looking for more volume or to manage a scalp that tends to be more oily, ANTIDOTE Rosemary Shampoo is a great choice for everyday use.  Of course, we usually recommend only shampooing every few days. For most daily use, match your shampoo to what your hair needs. For insight into what your hair needs, wet your hair and take a strand of hair and gently pull. Healthy hair: If your hair strand stretches a little and bounces back to its original length without breaking. For healthy hair, we recommend: Ginseng shampoo and conditioner for everyday use Nettle shampoo and conditioner for folks with sensitive skin Coconut shampoo bar and conditioner bar Weak or damaged hair: The strand stretches more than usual and then breaks. Your hair may be dry, stiff, and brittle.  This is common with chemically treated hair. If this matches your need, we recommend: Start with Ginseng Shampoo to add moisture and protein, followed by Jojoba Hair Repair Conditioner For oily scalp: Go with Rosemary Shampoo every time. We can’t wait for you to try ANTIDOTE’s new shampoo line.  Let us know what you think! Abigail + David

In a world where superficial solutions often dominate, it's time to shift our focus to products that genuinely care for our hair. Just like the "no makeup" movement has gained popularity, the concept of "no makeup for our hair" is the future of hair care. Let’s explore the benefits of using products that prioritize hair health over temporary fixes, and why embracing this approach can lead to long-lasting beauty.  Nourishment from Within: Unlike traditional hair products that merely mask the issues, hair care products that genuinely take care of your hair work from within. They nourish the hair follicles, strengthen the strands, and promote overall hair health. By addressing the root causes of hair concerns, these products offer sustainable and lasting results. Enhanced Natural Beauty: Just as makeup can enhance our natural features, using hair care products that prioritize hair health can bring out the best in our locks. By nourishing and repairing damaged hair, these products reveal the true beauty of our natural hair texture, shine, and volume. Say goodbye to the need for excessive styling or chemical treatments. Long-Term Hair Health: When we prioritize hair health, we invest in the long-term well-being of our hair. By using products that provide essential nutrients, protect against environmental damage, and promote hair growth, we can achieve healthier, stronger, and more resilient hair. This approach helps to prevent future damage and reduces the need for excessive hair treatments. Sustainable and Eco-Friendly: The "no makeup for our hair" philosophy aligns perfectly with the growing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly products. By opting for hair care products that are vegan, cruelty-free, and free from harmful chemicals, we contribute to a healthier planet. ANTIDOTE products come in eco-friendly packaging with Certified Plastic Neutral Certification promoting a greener lifestyle.  Time and Cost Efficiency: Using products that genuinely take care of our hair can save us time and money in the long run. By addressing the root causes of hair concerns, we reduce the need for constant salon visits, expensive treatments, and excessive styling. With healthier hair, we can embrace a more low-maintenance approach, allowing us to focus on other aspects of our lives.   The future of hair care lies in products that prioritize hair health over temporary fixes. Embracing the "no makeup for our hair" philosophy allows us to nourish our locks from within, enhance our natural beauty, and invest in long-term hair health. By choosing sustainable and eco-friendly options like ANTIDOTE, we contribute to a healthier planet while saving time and money. So, let's embrace this new era of hair care and unlock the true beauty of our hair. XO,  Abigail + David

When your hair and scalp are feeling a bit dry, it’s the perfect time for a homemade hair mask for a hydration boost.   Summer sun, heat, wind, and water take their toll on our hair for sure!   The hair mask recipe options are limitless, but here’s one recipe that find works for the widest variety of hair types.  It’s fun to make and apply, and the results are amazing, and it’s easy to modify. Why bother with a homemade hair mask? Hair masks provide a deep treatment and conditioning.  Because of the richness of the ingredients and the length of time that it stays on the hair and scalp, the mask has time to provide faster and longer lasting benefits, boosting the condition and health of your hair.  In “Everything you need to know about hair masks” Dr. Cynthia Cobb and Healthline writer Grace Gallagher explain some of the benefits of hair masks: shinier, softer hair for less frizz added moisture stronger hair for reduced hair breakage and damage a healthier scalp less environmental and product damage As an added benefit, a homemade mask won’t contain any potentially harmful preservatives, unlike store brands.  Fresh ingredients mean you’ll get all of the nourishing goodness possible.  And, you save money vs. a branded product. What’s a good recipe to start with? For Abigail’s favorite base recipe, you’ll need to raid your cupboard for some avocados, olive oil, and honey.  These versatile ingredients work for all hair types and can be customized for specific situations. 1½ avocados 2 Tbsp. olive oil 2 Tbsp. manuka honey 1-3 drops of an essential oil of your choice (optional) Step 1: Mix all ingredients in a blender until smooth. Step 2: Coat the hair evenly, cover with a shower cap and let sit for 45 minutes. Step 3: Wash out with a high quality, sulfate-free shampoo, apply a silicone-free conditioner, rinse. To kick up your hair mask a notch, add 1-3 drops of an essential oil of your choice.  Some of our favorite essential oils not only smell good – providing an aromatherapy benefit – they also improve your hair and scalp. Lavender oil to accelerate hair growth Peppermint oil increases circulation Rosemary oil improves hair thickness and growth Cedarwood oil reduces hair loss Lemongrass oil reduces dandruff Check out our post on “Must have oils for Healthy Scalp” for insight into how these work. Get creative! There are lots of common ingredients you can add to an at-home mask that can help improve the texture and health of your hair and scalp, without having to spend a lot on store-bought hair products.      Healthline writer Grace Gallagher explains some general rules about the benefits of common ingredients: Aloe vera to calm the scalp Honey moisturizes Avocado oil protects the hair shaft Bananas reduce frizz, dryness and dandruff Eggs promote hair growth and strength Coconut oil deep conditions Olive oil for intense moisture Throw a hair mask party! Have fun, experiment, throw a hair mask party.  You can even do this outside as long as you are near a water source and have some buckets.  A great way to do this is to have friends bring a specific ingredient then develop different masks based on each person’s hair and scalp situation.  They’ll be fun to make.   When it’s time for the 20 minute application, turn on some soothing meditation music.  Then rinse and start enjoying the benefits! Don't have time for a hair mask? ANTIDOTE Conditioners, ANTIDOTE Multi-Styler and Frizz Fix Styling Cream have a lot of the same ingredients used in quality home hair masks. We’d love to hear about your hair mask experience!  What are your favorite ingredients and why? Abigail + David

When you become a free subscriber to your favorite ANTIDOTE products, you never run out, simplify your life by taking something off our list, save, plus you'll get a free gift with every order. Subscriber benefits: never run out of a fresh batch of your favorite ANTIDOTE products lock in our best on-going deal with an automatic 10% off of every product you subscribe to take "buying hair care" off your to-do list get a free surprise gift with every order The ANTIDOTE Membership program came out of a real issue - we had ANTIDOTE users asking us to overnight their favorite products because they ran out.  It's happened to us too.  Busy day ahead, we jump in the shower, and oops, all out of shampoo and conditioner.   Don't run out! ANTIDOTE shampoos and conditioners are green rated by the Environmental Working Group which means that they are among the gentlest and safest products on the market.  Too few products are, so when you run out of ANTIDOTE chances are you are switching to something with harsh detergents and conditioners that irritate your scalp and weaken your hair.  With ANTIDOTE's subscription program, you'll never miss a healthy scalp and beautiful hair day again! It's super easy to sign up.   1. Pick your favorite product or bundle and select the "Subscribe and Save" button. 2. Select how frequently you want us to send you product.   3. Check out.   The sign up happens when you click on "place my order". That is how you confirm that your subscription will automatically renew and your credit card will automatically be charged your special subscription price. Ongoing, you can skip a shipment, accelerate one, change your frequency, or cancel all together.  Before we ship your next order, you will get an email.  The email will give you a link to your account in case you want to make any modifications to your order. You can always modify your subscription through your account online. How frequently should I select?  It depends on your hair type, size of bottle, and frequency of use and # of folks using it.  To start out, we recommend every 45 days if you are buying one 8oz bottle for one person and you shampoo every other day.  You'll want to move that to 30 days if you use more and to 60 days if you use less.   Why 45 days?   Based on using 2 teaspoons every other day, you should get 1.5 months out of your bottle.  Of course, everyone is different. For example, if you have long hair, we recommend shampooing less frequently, but you might need more shampoo each time.  And, if you are like us and use your ANTIDOTE shampoo as a body wash, you'll use a bit more.  Can I change my mind? or change products? Good news is that once you've set up your subscription, you can change it or cancel at any time.  You can access your account either from the ANTIDOTE website or through your confirmation email.   From your account, you'll be able to manage your shipments, skip one, or remove a product from the subscription. The subscription discount is our best ongoing deal and can't be combined with other offers. Never get caught empty handed again!  Become a member by subscribing to your favorite products, and we'll help you stay stocked for a healthy scalp and beautiful hair. ANTIDOTE 1848 - because beautiful hair starts with a happy follicles. - Abigail + David

At ANTIDOTE, hair care is self care. Great hair starts with a healthy scalp and happy follicles When you feel good you look good When you take care of your self you can take care of others. To break it all down, we've organized our favorite hair care tips that are also self care  – each one based in research.  After all, a good hair care routine should help your well-being, too. Here we'll break these down into one self-care tip for each day of the week.  Our goal with each day is to reinforce one healthy hair habit that we hope will be part of your ongoing routine. That’s how you’ll get the biggest benefit. At the heart of this is the recognition that healthy hair isn’t just about the products you use.  Sure, products are important.  Ingredients that nourish the scalp and strengthen hair are better for you and the planet. Cheap ingredients are known to irritate and weaken hair.   At ANTIDOTE our mission is to raise the bar in professional hair care with salon quality hair care that's also good for you and the planet. Healthy hair is also part of a system.  This includes what you eat, how you take care of yourself, and how much you sleep. We look forward to hearing more about your experiences.  Please share your favorite hair care/ self care tips! Day 1: Shampoo right.   One of the first steps to healthy hair is a good cleansing.  Shampoo properly by choosing a gentle cleanser.  You’re not degreasing your kitchen pipes, so avoid harmful ingredients like sulfates, parabens, or phthalates. Embrace plant-based products that are rich in nutrients meant to soothe your skin, fortify your hair follicles, and encourage growth.  The way you shampoo matters, too.  Make sure your hair is saturated with water. This will allow the shampoo to lather and spread more evenly.  Start at your scalp and focus on your roots.  If you are using a gentle sulfate free shampoo like ANTIDOTE, you can let your shampoo sit on your scalp for one minute before rinsing. Which shampoo is right for you? We always recommend starting with a clean slate.  Any professional stylist will tell you that removing environmental dirt and product build-up are the first step to great hair.  We designed Rosemary Detox Shampoo for this.  While how often you detox your hair does depend on your hair type and overall needs. A good rule of thumb is to use a detox shampoo once a week. Detoxing the hair is a good way to give your hair and scalp a clean slate from artificial products you may have been using – along with any dirt, impurities, and dead skin cells that can build up on your scalp. The Rosemary shampoo is formulated with organic Rosemary and Nettles that are rich in amino acids providing the hair with essential nutrients to the hair follicles. The Rosemary Shampoo is gentle enough to use every day.  For those looking for more volume or to manage a scalp that tends to be more oily, ANTIDOTE Rosemary Shampoo is a great choice for everyday use.  Of course, we usually recommend only shampooing every few days. For most daily use, match your shampoo to what your hair needs. For insight into what your hair needs, wet your hair and take a strand of hair and gently pull. Healthy hair: If your hair strand stretches a little and bounces back to its original length without breaking.  For healthy hair, we recommend: Ginseng shampoo for everyday use Nettle shampoo for folks with sensitive skin Coconut shampoo bar for great hair care w/o plastic Too much protein and not enough moisture: The strand stretches more than usual and then breaks. Your hair may feel dry, stiff, and brittle.  If this matches your need, we recommend: Ginseng Shampoo and Conditioner Don’t skimp on bottom-shelf products with ingredients you don’t recognize.  These products contain ingredients that strip your hair of everything it needs to grow strong and healthy. They irritate your scalp and hair follicles, causing dryness and itchiness.  Instead of helping, these cheap ingredients weaken your hair, making it dull and fragile. These products only benefit is that they cost less to you and make more money for manufacturers. Learn more about proper hair washing from professional stylists at “Wash your hair right” Day 2:  Eat a hair-healthy diet.  It’s never too late to start eating well. Nurture your body throughout your whole life and you’ll thank yourself when you’re older. Eat plenty of leafy greens, seafood, whole grains, and legumes.  Iron and proper protein, vitamins D, C, and B, iron, zinc, and folic acid are essential to your inner and outer beauty. Antioxidants also play an important role in antiaging. They prevent free radicals from doing damage to your hair and skin.  Grilled chicken, almond butter, eggs, yogurt, oatmeal, guava, berries, and bell peppers are all hair healthy foods.  Cut back on the alcohol and sugar. Sugar hinders the absorption of protein. And protein is essential to your hair’s health, as it’s basically made up entirely of different proteins. And alcohol lowers the zinc levels in your body, another essential mineral.  Day 3:  Add some stress management techniques to your routine. Life is stressful. Make sure you have the tools you need to take life on gracefully: with gratitude, peace, and wisdom. Stress management techniques like yoga, meditation, journaling, breathing techniques, and talk therapy can help.  Our favorite stress management technique might be the easiest?  Time outside. Did you know that a walk in the woods is proven to improve your health? In Japan, it’s called “forest bathing” and is as simple as taking a walk along  woodland path or sitting under a tree.   No cellphones, no conversation, just be in the moment.  While winter might feel like time to stay indoors, think the opposite! Getting outside is proven to reduce stress and improve health. Since we are from Wisconsin, we know all about being outside in the winter. Invest in a good set of long johns and don’t forget a neck gaitor. While you are outside more: Don’t leave the house with wet hair. Cold air expands the hair cuticle and makes it more prone to breakage.  Keep that frizz down with a leave-in conditioner. ANTIDOTE Silk Protein Styling Cream makes a great leave in conditioner that keeps hair flexible. Minimize hat hair by wearing a hat lined with silk or satin.Popular fabrics like wool and cotton, can cause split ends and breakage. Better yet, ditch that fancy hat for a pair of earmuffs like 180’s that go behind the head. Day 4:  Pamper yourself with a hair mask. Hair masks lock in moisture that it needs to stay strong. It deeply hydrates your hair, keeping it clean and shiny. And while you’re at it, do a face mask and get in the tub! Create your own personal resting phase; your hair will thank you.  What to look for in a hair mask? A good hair mask strengthens your hair from within.  Ditch those silicone conditioners – they dry out the hair strand, making it more prone to breakage. Instead, look for natural and essential oil-based products. These penetrate the strand, making it stronger and more flexible. Oils protect hair from the extreme cold and heat cycle common this time of year. Try ANTIDOTE highly concentrated Jojoba Hair Mast to restore and repair shine in just 20 minutes.  Jojoba Seed Oil conditions from within Silk and Quinoa Protein to strengthen damaged hair Slippery Elm Bark adds shine andsmoothes the hair cuticle without leaving a residue. Makes hair appear visibly healthier and shinier with just one use. Made with refreshing, natural anti-bacterial grapefruit essential oil.  If you don't have 20 minutes, ANTIDOTE conditioners are full of natural shea butter and avocado oil, powerful moisturizers that protect against environmental stress factors and is great for your scalp, too! Day 5: Scalp massage! Here are 3 reasons why you should give yourself a scalp massage.   Scalp massage removes dirt that can clog pores and follicles - things like dead skin, product build-up, and environmental debris Scalp massage stimulates blood flow to the scalp and hair follicles - that means that it creates an environment that promotes hair growth Scalp massage helps create thicker hair by stretching hair follicles "According to research, scalp massage increases hair thickness by stretching the cells of hair follicles. This, in turn, stimulates the follicles to produce thicker hair. It’s also thought that a scalp massage may help dilate blood vessels beneath the skin, thereby encouraging hair growth,"  Healthline. There are 2 main types of scalp massage: dry and wet.    Learn more about these in our post “3 REASONS TO GIVE YOURSELF A SCALP MASSAGE TODAY.” Day 6:  Get more sleep… at least 8 hours every day. In The Truth About Beauty Sleep, WebMD’s Stephanie Jacob’s reports, “sleep may be the closest thing there is to a fountain of youth. Your body repairs itself and recovers while you snooze, and that leads to a long list of benefits for your looks.”   A study published in the British Medical Journal, Beauty sleep: experimental study on the perceived health and attractiveness of sleep deprived people showed that well rested individuals were more attractive. Board certified Sleep specialist, Dr. Michael Breus says that getting less than 6 hours of sleep will likely affect how you look and that getting an extra 1-3 hours can show an improvement in just a few weeks. Sleep matters for healthier, fuller hair. “Hair loss, breakage, damage, and even growth can all be affected by lack of sleep”, Breus says. “Hair follicles (where hair growth begins) gain nutrients, vitamins, and minerals from blood flow. Since blood flow decreases when we’re short on shut-eye, hair gets less food, it weakens, and it has difficulty growing.”  A lack of sleep can lead to more stress, which is no good for how we feel and look. Learn more about sleep in our blog post “Looking for the fountain of youth.“    Day 7:  Repeat Our 7-day healthy hair challenge is all about reminding ourselves that healthy, beautiful hair is more than just one thing. It’s about looking good and feeling good, from the inside out.  For sure, the products we use and how we use them make a difference for sure.  Also, our diet, stress, and sleep all affect our hair. Let us know your favorite hair care/ self care tips.  Abigail + David  

Introducing ANTIDOTE's new Olive Fruit Pomade and ANTIDOTE Beeswax Hair Clay. Thanks for all your positive feedback on our natural products.  It warms our team’s hearts to hear encouragement.  It’s hard work finding the best natural ingredients and formulating them into salon quality products that are good for you and the planet. At the same time, we are continuously looking for ways to improve.  After all, natural ingredients work differently than synthetics –the results are deeper and longer lasting, they take longer to work.  And they are harder to work into the manufacturing process. We heard you!  Along with the positive reviews, we get a lot of constructive feedback.  You told us that you wanted more out of your stylers.  Based on your input, we are improving formulas on the ANTIDOTE Pomade and Hair Clay and expanding packaging options.  Thanks to your valuable feedback, product suggestions, and our wonderful professional stylist community for making this happen. Most companies would launch new items as additions to the line, shouting about new benefits and increasing prices. Not ANTIDOTE!  Instead, we feel that you only need one great pomade and one great hair clay, so these replace our old formulas. Prices will remain the same on our regular 2oz size. Plus we are offering an every day 25% discount on a larger 4oz size. While we hope that you will agree with us that the new formulas are better.  Before you accept that you are addicted to the old formulas, we invite you to try the new ones.  We think you’ll love them.  If you are not thrilled, we’ll refund you within 30 days. What’s changing? Formula highlights: Vanilla Pomade will become Olive Fruit Pomade – a clear, firm-holding pomade to smooth and hold any style.  Made with Coconut Oil and Shea Butter to create a silky touchable finish.  Non-greasy and flake-free with long lasting hold that keeps edges and styles in their place.  This formula conditions as it holds so using it improves the structure of your hair. Sea Buckthorn Clay will become Beeswax Hair Clay – to add texture and separation to long or short styles.  Made with Beeswax and Bentonite Clay to add body and make hair feel thicker.  Light formula absorbs quickly.   New packaging:   In addition, we’ll be offering more packaging options: each styler will come in both a 2oz ($28) and 4oz ($42, 25% discount per ounce) -great for back bar and heavy users. the Nourishing Oil will come in a 4oz ($32) and 2oz ($18), great for traveling. Next step Try ANTIDOTE new Olive Fruit Pomade and new Beeswax Hair Clay today!  And let us know what you think.  We’re listening! David and Abigail ANTIDOTE HAIR CARE  

At ANTIDOTE 1848 Plant Powered Haircare, we believe that less is more.  So for summer hair tips, we’re going to keep it simple.  If there are only 3 things you do for your hair this season, here is our inside scoop on what to do. TIP #1: Start your summer with a good hair trim, this will keep your locks refreshed and looking great.   TIP #2: Stock up on your favorite hair protector (with birchbark). Make it a habit to use this every single day, it will protect your hair from UV rays that can fade haircolor.  TIP #3: Drench your hair with a good leave in conditioner (like an avocado styler). This will help prevent from the chlorine and salt water from drying your hair out. Don’t forget to rinse your hair after a swim.   Now let’s get into the details of each, in reverse order: TIP #3: Embrace a good leave-in conditioner Drench your hair with a good leave-in conditioner.  This will help prevent from the chlorine and salt water from drying your hair out. Don’t forget to rinse your hair after a swim.   Our favorite is ANTIDOTE Avocado Hair Cream - full of luxurious Aloe Vera, Shea Butter, Avocado Oil, and Provitamin B5 – each a powerhouse when it comes to hair care. When you use Avocado Styling Cream, some of the benefits you can see: Reduced frizz and smooths split ends Conditioned dry ends without weighing your hair down Increased curl when diffused in hair  It works for all hair types but especially effective for curly and very dry hair. It’s vegan, cruelty free, gluten free, silicone free, and color safe, too! To use, work a small dab of product into palms. Apply to dry or damp hair, let air-dry or you can blow-dry or diffuse into hair to get rid of frizz and enhance textured hair. Can also be used on the ends of dry hair for a smooth texture.  If you’re swimming a lot this summer, Shelley notes that “Swimming beats up your hair, too. …while you're doing the breaststroke, chlorine is stripping your hair of its natural protective oils. If you're a blonde, you may find your locks taking on an unflattering greenish cast. That's caused by the copper molecules and other pool chemicals that bind to the protein in the hair shaft,” Shelley continues to explain.”  She recommends, “Saturate strands before taking a dip. If your hair is drenched with clean water or leave-in conditioner, it won't absorb as much saltwater or pool chemicals…. It's also a good idea to try to rinse your hair after a swim. If there isn't a shower nearby, keep a spray bottle filled with fresh water.” TIP #2: Protect your hair from UV Stock up on your favorite hair protector (goldenseal). Make it a habit to use this every day, it will protect your hair from UV rays that can fade haircolor.  WebMD’s Shelley Levitt explains why it is important to “shield your strands from the sun.” “Make a daily habit of applying a hair care product that contains UV filters. These products protect hair from sun damage and help keep color-processed hair from fading. If you'll be spending lots of time outdoors, wear a wide-brimmed hat. Not only will it keep your strands from getting scorched, it will also protect your scalp and ears, areas that are vulnerable to skin cancer.”   With ANTIDOTE Birchbark Hair Protector, you can protect hair and preserve color from sun damage.  What can this product do for you? Golden seal + shea butter guard against UV exposure Reduce tangles + condition hair.  Protects color-treated hair Reduces drying time. And like all ANTIDOTE hair care products, it is vegan, cruelty free, and safe for color treated hair. How does it work? Mist throughout clean, towel-dried hair prior to styling.  For shorter hair styles, choose a styler that protects and conditions as it holds.  Our most popular styler, ANTIDOTE Sandalwood Multi-Styler is made with Aloe Vera and Sandalwood Essential Oil to do just that. This lightweight styling cream for hair is formulated to provide body and shine.  How does this nature packed cream work as a light weight blow-dry serum? Sandalwood and grapeseed oils protect hair and add shine Aloe vera conditions + protects color treated hair To use, work a generous amount between palms. Apply to damp hair from the roots to the ends, style.  Air drying will leave a medium shine.  Blow dry in to add volume,  matte finish. And finally… TIP #1: Get a good trim A good hair trim restores balance to your hair style so that it flatters you and it removes the oldest sections of your hair, keeping your ends clean.  WebMD’s Shelley Levitt explains, “Start summer with a trim. You'll get rid of split ends and refresh your style. You might need a mid-season cut, too. Hair really does grow faster in the summer. That's because there are more hairs in the anagen, or growing, stage during late spring and summer than in the dead of winter.” Of course, talk to your stylist about what works best with your face structure.  Some of the looks that are getting the most buzz for summer 2022 include the Bixie, the Blow-out, and Braids. The Bixie   “Back in the '90s, two iconic short haircuts came together (the Bob and the Pixie) and had a baby we now know as the bixie. Now, the cut is all grown up and modernized for 2022. ‘A bixie is equal parts pixie cut and a bob,’ Los Angeles-based hairstylist Andrew Fitzsimons told Allure. ‘It's a shaggy bob with a mix of layers to add dimension and texture,’” shared Allure beauty experts Elizabeth Denton, Wendy Sy, Kaleigh Fasanella, and Marci Robin. Braids The Bustle’s Paris Giles shares, “expect to see lots of head-turning braids in funky colors and awe-inspiring lengths.  ‘Braids, braids, and more braids!’ says celebrity hairstylist Larry Sims. More specifically, he predicts a range of fun and funky variations like colorful braids, structural looks, and super long pleats. ‘Braids are super easy and low maintenance. People will opt for no-stress, carefree styles.’” “Something to remember: As with any protective style, he says to keep your strands and scalp properly hydrated in order to avoid breakage,” says Sims. Volume blow out Elle’s Tatjana Freud explains the 3rd trend we are seeing, Bouncy Blow-outs.  “Hello, volume. ‘The '90s Bouncy Blow Out will continue to trend into Summer because it looks amazing down and chic when pulled back if it gets too hot,” says Celebrity Stylist Laura Polko. A round brush, some texture spray, and plenty of hairspray are the only tools you need to achieve this voluminous look.” For men and those with shorter hair, grooming expert Michael Morris predicts, “Current hairstyles are embracing natural and classic natural curls. Fades and man buns are on their way out; tidy, 80’s style haircuts will be popular.” DapperConfidential clarifies what to ask your stylist about, “…a tidy up, giving your hair layers and textures to help provide a more fluid silhouette. Many that we talked to suggest that the Ceasar Cut will make a comeback.  What do you think?     If you go this route, Michael shares a few things to keep in mind: “To wear this look you need strong features — good ears and a square jawline. Hair trends for men also often follows movies. With the release of the upcoming ‘Top Gun’ sequel, I think we will all revisit 80’s style with stronger, squarer tops cropped to the sides, and clean well-shaved faces that put the military back in our daily step.  If you want to add facial hair to this look, keep it clean, keep it trimmed, and you will be looking fresh and fashion-forward.”  At ANTIDOTE we want your summer to be as easy as possible.  You need the time for more important things.  Keep it simple with a good trim, incorporate a hair protector into your daily routine, and stay moisturized with a quality leave in conditioner. Interested in more summer hair tips?  Check out one of our most popular features on summer cocktails - not the kind you drink - but mixing hair products to customize your look.  Happy Summer! Abigail + David

For sure, every day should be Earth Day.  A time to have gratitude for our planet and reflect on the ways that we can care for it.   But our lives get busy and we can end up taking the environment for granted.   April 22 has been designated Earth Day. Earth Day reminds us of the importance of a healthy environment and that we are interconnected in making that happen.   At ANTIDOTE, We Try to Make Every Day Earth Day With Planet Positive Hair Care, every day includes: Organic, sustainable ingredients. Low energy, cold-processing in our manufacturing Certified Carbon Neutral Shipping Minimizing plastic in all we do, and being Certified Plastic Neutral for the plastic we do use But Earth Day Gives us a Reason to Celebrate By Doing More. How will you celebrate?  switch to sustainable products reduce, reuse, recycle drink shade grown coffee support local conservation efforts stop using plastic bags and bottles take a hike Get outside. Earth Day is a great excuse to plan a field trip.  Check out good hikes near you to find a new one, or revisit an old favorite.  Alltrails is our "go to" site to find hikes where ever our travels take us.  One of our favorite places is Stroebe Island Marsh Preserve.  It's beautiful any time of year.  This is the last cattail marsh on the lower Fox River - a place stewarded by native people for thousands of years and a reminder of land's ability to clean water naturally. While you are out in nature, try taking your time to do some forest bathing.  Sit under a tree, study its bark, follow its branches, feel its energy. Time Magazine's Qing Li explains, "We all know how good being in nature can make us feel. We have known it for centuries. The sounds of the forest, the scent of the trees, the sunlight playing through the leaves, the fresh, clean air — these things give us a sense of comfort. They ease our stress and worry, help us to relax and to think more clearly. Being in nature can restore our mood, give us back our energy and vitality, refresh and rejuvenate us." Encourage friends to go "green." 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.  All ANTIDOTE shampoos and conditioners are Environmental Working Group "Green Rated."  No matter what brand you choose, natural products are one small way we can all make a difference. Buy shade grown coffee.   Tropical shade trees in the tropics are home to countless migrating birds.  The loss of this habitat has a direct impact on the loss of bird population. One key driver of this is clear cutting to support cheaper sun coffee.  Give our feathered friends a break by buying shade grown coffee.  By the way, coffee prefers shade and shade grown coffee is the richest, most delicious kind you can buy. Re-use and recycle. We'll also recommit ourselves to recycling 100% of our recyclable waste - we hope that you will join us, too.  Talk about a small thing with a big impact - only 29% of people recycle their PET bottles (you know who you are!)  As a result, plastics make up a growing share of our garbage.  Recycling removes plastic from our waste, and gives trash a new life.  Earth Day was born in Wisconsin (just like ANTIDOTE!)...  In the 1960’s, US Senator from Wisconsin 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. 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," says the Aldo Leopold Foundation.  Aldo Leopold’s A Sand County Almanac continues 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. Let us know how you plan to celebrate Earth Day this year, and make every day Earth Day. We love hearing from you! - Abigail + David

You can have it all… with ANTIDOTE Hair Care you get salon quality that’s good for you and the planet. For too long the hair care industry has made us believe that salon quality hair care needs harsh chemicals to work. The truth is, these chemicals irritate our scalp, weaken hair over time, and make hair brittle. (In fact, many chemicals used in American professional products are outlawed in Canada and Europe.)  Of course, the industry is happy to fill your shower with extra products designed to repair the damage caused by harsh ingredients. We created ANTIDOTE 1848 Hair Care because we believe that everyone deserves an alternative to the harsh chemicals found in most haircare. Salon professional hair care made with the best natural ingredients, minimal packaging, and multi-use products to minimize consumer and environmental waste. Our Vision: We want to raise the bar in professional hair care and break the paradigm.  Professional hair care doesn’t need to be made with harsh ingredients, and nobody needs a roomful of products.  ANTIDOTE Founders, Abigail and David, met in Appleton, Wisconsin and connected on the need for safe, environmentally conscious, salon professional products that work.  Abigail bringing years of experience in the boutique salon field and David years of experience in the corporate side of the industry.  The line was born after many months of formulation and testing – thanks to talented professional stylists, veteran industry chemists, and an enthusiastic group of product testers. From our combined deep boutique salon and corporate hair care industry expertise, we knew that natural ingredients work better than synthetics to deliver thick, strong hair and nurture your healthiest scalp.  At ANTIDOTE we believe in simplicity.  From ingredients to packaging, less is more.  All products have multiple uses so that you can streamline your routine and simplify your shower.  Thanks to gentle cleansers, shampoos work well as a body wash. Conditioners are rich enough to use as a leave-in styler when diluted. Hair Sprays work on wet or dry hair to give you different effects. As a result, the ANTIDOTE line has about 20 products.  In contrast, a typical salon line has 5 times as many. How does ANTIDOTE work?  ANTIDOTE works by bathing your hair and scalp in salon-tested formulas using gentle cleaners, rich vitamins, and natural oils.  In ANTIDOTE products you’ll find aloe vera bases, shea butter and avocado oil conditioners, vitamins E and B5, and herbs such as ginseng, chamomile, and rosemary.  These ingredients work with our body to restore balance and strengthen hair from within.  After all, great hair starts with a healthy scalp and happy follicles. Did you know that 64% of what you put on your skin gets absorbed into your body?  Have you considered that 100% of what you use in your shower ends up in streams, rivers, and oceans? For sure, lots of brands claim to be “organic” or use “botanicals”.  Only ANTIDOTE professional shampoos and conditioners are externally recognized with mulitiple green ratings by the Environmental Working Group, the leading product safety rating organization in the industry. Everyone deserves both professional hair care that works AND healthful natural ingredients with a minimal approach. And you can feel good knowing that ANTIDOTE removes an equivalent amount of plastic bound for oceans, making ANTIDOTE Certified Plastic Neutral. Go ahead, have it all!  ANTIDOTE Hair Care - salon quality that’s good for you and the planet.

We are thrilled to welcome Rachel Nyce back and thank her for bringing the power of plant powered hair care to beautiful Cleveland, Tennessee!   Rachel has been working with ANTIDOTE Hair Care for years.    She shares our vision to raise the bar in professional hair care by breaking the paradigm.  Professional hair care doesn’t need to be made with harsh ingredients, and nobody needs a roomful of products.   Rachel explains, “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."   You can find Rachel at Rouge Beauty Lounge, 170 1st St. NE Cleveland, TN 37311 Booking Site:  https://rachelnycehair.glossgenius.com/ And follow her at:  https://www.instagram.com/thechristianhairstylist/ We recently sat down with Rachel to learn more about her and here's what she had to say... Tell us why holistic beauty is personal for you? My goal in the salon is to offer my clients as close to a natural, non toxic hair experience as possible. I personally suffer from allergies and eczema, which makes it difficult to work with chemicals and traditional beauty products. Now that I have a baby, I am 1000 times more conscious of what I put in and on my body and hair. I want to feel good knowing what I use to style my hair is safe for me and my baby. I'm excited to offer the same level of comfort to my clients. Being able to offer and support a clean, sustainable, and EWG green rated line gives me confidence behind the chair because I know I'm offering my clients the best!  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 looking your best? 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? What we use everyday on ourselves is important. 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. I feel safe knowing I get to use ANTIDOTE's family of products. I also 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 Birch Bark 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! For those not familiar with Cleveland, it sits in the southeastern corner of the state, near the intersection of the Hiwassee River and Chickamauga Lake.  Outdoor activities abound, there’s a fun arts and food scene, and a lot of history.  Cleveland is the ancestral home of the Cherokee Nation. The area resonates with important stories of tragedy and resilience important to anyone interested in our shared past. Speaking of food, don’t miss out on Cleveland’s “Hot Slaw and Art Y’All” on April 1st.  Join to celebrate a unique food tradition and support local artists.  Learn more about things to do in Cleveland here.  

You might be wondering, what’s Plastic Neutral all about? With the holidays upon us we wanted to thank all of you for supporting ANTIDOTE’s plastic neutral certification. ANTIDOTE is proud to be among the first hair care companies to become certified plastic neutral - just one part of our Planet Positive mission. We wanted to give you an update on how our plastic neutral efforts are going. If you’ve been following us, you know that are mission is to make professional grade hair care products that are better for people and the planet.  Your health and safety are most important to us.  So while we hate using plastic, it’s currently the only material that exists that protects the natural ingredients in the formula and is safe to use in a shower setting.   It means that we look to use as little plastic as possible – you’ll see that in our low-plastic caps and small, no labels, and no outer packs.  We only use the most recyclable plastics and offer refills to encourage re-use. Being certified plastic neutral means that we promise to remove the same amount of plastic used in every bottle of ANTIDOTE from the environment.  That means the bottle and cap and any plastic that might be involved in the manufacturing process.  For example, our ginseng root arrives in a plastic bag.  So we calculate that and remove that amount of plastic, too. What is the impact of being plastic neutral? Removal of devastating low value plastic from the oceans.  More than 50% of the plastic waste generated in urban cities is multi-layered plastic that does not get collected because the material has no commercial value and lacks collection infrastructure. This includes soft, flexible types of packaging such as candy wrappers and chip packets. The most at risk are those that have multiple layers of plastic along with a metal coating inside since it is almost impossible to separate the materials out in order to recycle them. In some urban centers, harder types of plastic like PET and HDPE that are easier to recycle, have a recovery rate of up to 60-70% because of their inherent economic value. However, low-value materials have a recovery rate of less than 5%, and are most likely to leak into the natural environment and pollute our waterways. Too much low value plastic is ending up in our oceans.  That’s why our project focusses on stopping ocean-bound plastic waste from leaking into the Bay of Bengal along the eastern shore of India. Another impact is jobs.  ANTIDOTE’s plastic neutral work supports 18 waste workers.  These are folks that create a collection point for low value plastic, sort, pack, and bale low value plastic into blocks.  The project also provides benefits to the waste workers and a comprehensive health check-up camp.  This included COVID support as needed. Fuel to make Cement.  Not only does this initiative dispose of unrecyclable plastic waste without sending them to landfills or river dumpsites, but it also reduces the usage of coal in the cement manufacturing process, thereby reducing greenhouse gas emissions. How does that work? Following the collection of low value plastic, waste workers segregate, clean, and transport the plastic to cement kilns for co-processing. As this type of plastic cannot be recycled, the best environmental option as prescribed by the United Nations Basel Convention is co-processing. That means that energy is recovered from the plastic and the remaining waste is effectively disposed of without harmful emissions. We are also able to extract some of the minerals in the plastic waste and use them in the creation of cement. What does certification mean? It means that our work is independently verified and that the work to offset our plastic footprint is managed professionally, at the highest standards in the industry.  We chose to work with Repurpose Global, the most recognized plastic neutral certification provider. They are already working with established brands across the food, beverage, and personal care industries, so have the experience that we needed. They also commit to a “100% Additionality Promise.” For every piece of plastic that rePurpose Global gives us credit for, it is a piece of plastic that would otherwise not have been removed from our ecosystems. It also means that 100% of the plastic recovered on our behalf is "Ocean-Bound". What this means is that this project focuses on the collection of plastic waste in an over 60 mile radius from the coastline (as defined in the Verra Plastic Standards) that would otherwise have not been collected and would most likely end up in oceans. Essentially, it is an intervention to divert this plastic safely away from the oceans before it ever has a chance to leak into them. How can you help? While we are offsetting our plastic use by focusing on zero value plastic headed to our oceans, you can do your part by reducing, reusing, and recycling your own plastic use. Reduce and reuse by taking advantage of ANTIDOTE refills.  These not only mean less plastic, they also give you a roughly 25% discount per ounce. For the plastics that you do use, look for ones like PET and HDPE that are easier to recycle.  In the US, only 30% of these plastics are currently recycled.  We get that your shower might be far away from your recycling bin or worse, you may not have a separate plastic collection stream in your community yet.  The extra effort is worth it! And of course, the more ANTIDOTE you buy, the more plastic we take out of the environment. Thank you! Abigail

We’re so excited to share our 7-day healthy hair challenge!  We’ve talked a lot about these great tips individually over the years – each one based in research.  This is the first time we’ve put them all together.  Our goal with each day is to reinforce one healthy hair habit that we hope will be part of your ongoing routine. That’s how you’ll get the biggest benefit. At the heart of this challenge is the recognition that healthy hair isn’t just about the products you use.  Sure, products are important.  Ingredients that nourish the scalp and strengthen hair are better for you and the planet. Cheap ingredients are known to irritate and weaken hair.   Healthy hair is also part of a system.  This includes what you eat, how you take care of yourself, and how much you sleep. We look forward to hearing more about your experiences with the Challenge! Day 1: Shampoo right.   One of the first steps to healthy hair is a good cleansing.  Shampoo properly by choosing a gentle cleanser.  You’re not degreasing your kitchen pipes, so avoid harmful ingredients like sulfates, parabens, or phthalates. Embrace plant-based products that are rich in nutrients meant to soothe your skin, fortify your hair follicles, and encourage growth.  The way you shampoo matters, too.  Make sure your hair is saturated with water. This will allow the shampoo to lather and spread more evenly.  Start at your scalp and focus on your roots.  If you are using a gentle sulfate free shampoo like ANTIDOTE, you can let your shampoo sit on your scalp for one minute before rinsing. Don’t skimp on bottom-shelf products with ingredients you don’t recognize.  These products contain ingredients that strip your hair of everything it needs to grow strong and healthy. They irritate your scalp and hair follicles, causing dryness and itchiness.  Instead of helping, these cheap ingredients weaken your hair, making it dull and fragile. These products only benefit is that they cost less to you and make more money for manufacturers. Learn more about proper hair washing from professional stylists at “Wash your hair right” Day 2:  Eat a hair-healthy diet.  It’s never too late to start eating well. Nurture your body throughout your whole life and you’ll thank yourself when you’re older. Eat plenty of leafy greens, seafood, whole grains, and legumes.  Iron and proper protein, vitamins D, C, and B, iron, zinc, and folic acid are essential to your inner and outer beauty. Antioxidants also play an important role in antiaging. They prevent free radicals from doing damage to your hair and skin.  Grilled chicken, almond butter, eggs, yogurt, oatmeal, guava, berries, and bell peppers are all hair healthy foods.  Cut back on the alcohol and sugar. Sugar hinders the absorption of protein. And protein is essential to your hair’s health, as it’s basically made up entirely of different proteins. And alcohol lowers the zinc levels in your body, another essential mineral.  Day 3:  Add some stress management techniques to your routine. Life is stressful. Make sure you have the tools you need to take life on gracefully: with gratitude, peace, and wisdom. Stress management techniques like yoga, meditation, journaling, breathing techniques, and talk therapy can help.  Our favorite stress management technique might be the easiest?  Time outside. Did you know that a walk in the woods is proven to improve your health? In Japan, it’s called “forest bathing” and is as simple as taking a walk along  woodland path or sitting under a tree.   No cellphones, no conversation, just be in the moment.  While winter might feel like time to stay indoors, think the opposite! Getting outside is proven to reduce stress and improve health. Since we are from Wisconsin, we know all about being outside in the winter. Invest in a good set of long johns and don’t forget a neck gaitor. While you are outside more: Don’t leave the house with wet hair. Cold air expands the hair cuticle and makes it more prone to breakage.  Keep that frizz down with a leave-in conditioner. ANTIDOTE Avocado Styling Cream makes a great leave in conditioner that keeps hair flexible. Minimize hat hair by wearing a hat lined with silk or satin.Popular fabrics like wool and cotton, can cause split ends and breakage. Better yet, ditch that fancy hat for a pair of earmuffs like 180’s that go behind the head. Day 4:  Pamper yourself with a hair mask. Hair masks lock in moisture that it needs to stay strong. It deeply hydrates your hair, keeping it clean and shiny. And while you’re at it, do a face mask and get in the tub! Create your own personal resting phase; your hair will thank you.  What to look for in a hair mask? A good hair mask strengthens your hair from within.  Ditch those silicone conditioners – they dry out the hair strand, making it more prone to breakage. Instead, look for natural and essential oil-based products. These penetrate the strand, making it stronger and more flexible. Oils protect hair from the extreme cold and heat cycle common this time of year. ANTIDOTE conditioners are full of natural shea butter and avocado oil, powerful moisturizers that protect against environmental stress factors and is great for your scalp, too! Treat yourself to a weekly deep conditioning treatment. Apply ANTIDOTE Jojoba Hair Repair to wet hair for 5-10 minutes to let ingredients penetrate the hair strand.  Note that you’ll want to make sure that your hair is clean before your mask.  If you’ve been using silicone-based products, these seal the hair cuticle and keep nourishing oils from penetrating deep. If this is the case, your hair mask will just sit on the surface and weigh your hair down.  The result can be oily feeling hair. Not good!  So use a good detox shampoo before hand and you might even need to wash twice. Day 5: Scalp massage! Here are 3 reasons why you should give yourself a scalp massage.   Scalp massage removes dirt that can clog pores and follicles - things like dead skin, product build-up, and environmental debris Scalp massage stimulates blood flow to the scalp and hair follicles - that means that it creates an environment that promotes hair growth Scalp massage helps create thicker hair by stretching hair follicles "According to research, scalp massage increases hair thickness by stretching the cells of hair follicles. This, in turn, stimulates the follicles to produce thicker hair. It’s also thought that a scalp massage may help dilate blood vessels beneath the skin, thereby encouraging hair growth,"  Healthline. There are 2 main types of scalp massage: dry and wet.    Learn more about these in our post “3 REASONS TO GIVE YOURSELF A SCALP MASSAGE TODAY.” Day 6:  Get more sleep… at least 8 hours every day. In The Truth About Beauty Sleep, WebMD’s Stephanie Jacob’s reports, “sleep may be the closest thing there is to a fountain of youth. Your body repairs itself and recovers while you snooze, and that leads to a long list of benefits for your looks.”   A study published in the British Medical Journal, Beauty sleep: experimental study on the perceived health and attractiveness of sleep deprived people showed that well rested individuals were more attractive. Board certified Sleep specialist, Dr. Michael Breus says that getting less than 6 hours of sleep will likely affect how you look and that getting an extra 1-3 hours can show an improvement in just a few weeks. Sleep matters for healthier, fuller hair. “Hair loss, breakage, damage, and even growth can all be affected by lack of sleep”, Breus says. “Hair follicles (where hair growth begins) gain nutrients, vitamins, and minerals from blood flow. Since blood flow decreases when we’re short on shut-eye, hair gets less food, it weakens, and it has difficulty growing.”  A lack of sleep can lead to more stress, which is no good for how we feel and look. Learn more about sleep in our blog post “Looking for the fountain of youth.“    Day 7:  Repeat Our 7-day healthy hair challenge is all about reminding ourselves that healthy, beautiful hair is more than just one thing. It’s about looking good and feeling good, from the inside out.  For sure, the products we use and how we use them make a difference for sure.  Also, our diet, stress, and sleep all affect our hair.

Are you tired of holiday shopping?  Worried about inflation or the future of the economy?  Of course, we'd love everyone to give their family and friends some ANTIDOTE hair care.  We call it the gift of a happy scalp, healthy follicles, and beautiful hair.  There are also tons of articles from retail experts willing to suggest the latest electronic gadget and the newest fashion trend.   Instead, we invite you to save your money, skip the lines, and go for the most sought after gift - a memorable experience! Now this won’t be easy. It takes deep listening, empathy, and creativity to pull this gift off.  And to be fully disclosing, some experiences will cost money.  Here’s how to start: Listen:  Really get to know the person that you have in mind. What are their interests? What do they enjoy doing? What do they love to read about?  What do they like to eat?  What do they do for fun? Feel:  Put yourself in their shoes.  If you were them and got an experience as a gift, what would you want to to? Who would you want to do it with?   Create:  This can be the fun part.  Of course, you’ll have constraints like time, distance, money,… so this is where you start to put together ideas that will delight your target and still be manageable. When you give an experience, the options are limitless.  Here are some ideas to get your juices flowing. Our Favorite "Easy" Experience Gifts by Type of Person on your List For the person who loves “Giving Back” - organize a volunteer day: Pick a cause that your recipient cares about - consider a food bank, park clean up, animal shelter,...  Amp it up by adding brunch before or ice cream break after.  Just Google "volunteer opportunities near me" to get started.  Here's a TimeOut Guide with just 5 ideas in NYC. For the “Historian” - visit a historic site: Does your recipient like old gardens and homes, battlegrounds? Take them to a place that has historical significance.  Amp it up by downloading a story about the place to share, or prepare a snack that was popular back in the day.  The Cultural Landscape Foundation has the largest database of historic landscapes with stories about each one.   For the “Foodie” – create a cooking class.  Pick a meal theme that interests them, put all of the ingredients together, cook away.  Surprise them by inviting friends over to share the meal when it is done.  Get extra credit if the cuisine you are preparing requires special tools or spices that your person can take home with them. For the “Movie Buff”, plan a movie night:  Watch your recipients favorite childhood movie or genre. Amp it up with popcorn and drinks. Or better yet, consider "dinner and a movie."  Here's five tips to get you going from LifeHack. For the “Nature Lover” - lead a hike: Share your favorite secret hiking spot.  Amp it up with a picnic lunch at a special place along the way - like a waterfall or overlook.  Check out these family friendly hiking tips. For the “Active Person” – consider bowling, ice skating, or a rock climbing wall.  Try finding an activity that your person loved as a kid but hasn’t had time to do in years.  Also, many of these indoor activities don’t require a back-up weather plan.  For the “Puzzle Solver” - create a scavenger hunt:  Hide clues to a story or poem along a nature trail or using landmarks in your town.  Have your participants find the clues and put them together.  Amp it up with hot chocolate afterwards.  Learn how to create your own scavenger hunt here.  Of course, there's always the gift of healthy scalp and happy follicles. 4 tips to make your experience come off without a gitch: Try to have the experience as close to the holiday (Xmas, birthday) that you are celebrating. Think through necessities like bathroom breaks, drinks and snacks, and places to sit and rest along the way. Take it slow.  An experience isn't about how many paintings in a museum you see or how many miles you log.  Stay flexible and follow your recipients energy.  If you are taking a hike, have a few check points where you can decide to take the short, medium, or long route. Have a back-up plan. Think in advance of your contingency plan.  If someone isn't feeling well or the weather isn't cooperating, give some thought to how you'll handle it.  Having a plan will take the stress out.  Let us know your favorite experience gift. - Abigail

What makes hair thicker? Hair “thickness” or “fullness”, comes from 5 things: Number of hair follicles on your scalp The diameter of your hair strand How healthy your hair follicles are The amount of curl in your hair The length of your hair Understanding each of these helps you appreciate your natural hair density, as well as learn what you can do to affect the fullness of your hair.  Some people are looking to make their hair appear thicker and fuller, others are wanting to make their hair finer.  As with many things in life, the saying “the grass is greener on the other side” applies to hair thickness. Many people with fine hair want it thicker hair and many with thick hair want it to appear finer! Let’s take a look at each of the key factors. Follicle Density, Hair Diameter  On average there were between 800 to 1,290 hairs per square inch, according to the publish study “Hair Anatomy” by lead author, Morgan Murphrey. Spoiler alert!  The human hair is not actually round. Instead, it is typically varying degrees of oval.  For simplicity sake, the average diameter of human hair can vary anywhere from about 20 micrometers to 180 micrometers.  Follicles determine the diameter of the hair strand. Those are wide ranges!  Based on these alone, you will be genetically pre-disposed to thicker or finer hair.  For simplicity, think of these factors as interesting and nice to know, but there isn’t much you can do to change them. Follicle Health Good news is that the number of follicles and the diameter of your hair are just the start of full hair.  It is also important to understand how the hair follicle works and consider that every hair follicle goes through various life stages. Your hair follicles are made up of 2 parts: the papilla and the bulb.  The papilla delivers the blood supply to the hair follicle. The bulb, located at the bottom of the hair strand, contains the cells that grow the hair.  Out from the hair follicle grows the hair shaft. This is the part of the hair that is visible, what we know to be our roots. The hair shaft is made up of a protein called Keratin and an outer protective layer, the cuticle.   How do hair follicles work? Hair follicles move through a cycle of 3 stages: anagen, catagen, and telogen. - stages are also known as growth, death, and rest. Anagen: Growth. Lasts 2-7 years. The hair grows anywhere from 18-30 inches, depending on your genetics, age, or other health factors.  Catagen: Death. Lasts 2-3 weeks. The strand detaches from the papilla but remains in the hair follicle. Telogen: Rest. Lasts 3 months on average. New hair begins to grow. At the end of this phase, the older strand is shed.  It’s an interesting way to look at a life cycle. If allowed to rest after death, the hair cycle renews so that the hair follicle can grow new hair. If the hair follicle is damaged, it may not regrow hair.  Hair thinning or balding is an indication of possible damage. The average person has 100,000 hair follicles on their head, but our follicles don’t move through this life cycle in tandem. Instead, they stagger, with about 80-90% of follicles being in anagen - growth - at any given time.  Healthy hair means remaining in the growth phase (anagen) for as long as possible, and allowing adequate rest (telogen) when it’s time. Unfortunately for a lot of people, hair follicles are under siege by harsh detergents and hair treatments.  Good news is that diet, sleep, hydration, organic products, and scalp massage all play a role in supporting healthy hair follicles.  Amount of Curl and Hair Length The curlier your hair, the naturally fuller it will appear.  That’s because curls add volume.  Straighter hair will appear less full.  While we favor embracing your natural wave, ask your professional stylist for advice about ways to enhance your curl for the look you want.  Even a few minutes of heat styling can make a bid difference and sleep in curlers work for some people.  Healthline explains, “Curly hair is influenced by the result of your genetics, your hair style, the products you use, and even how long your hair is. As you age, your hair can become less curly due to hair loss (alopecia) or get even curlier due to hormonal changes.”  In their “How to Straighten Hair Without Heat” they share: Blow drying with cold hair Wrapping your hair Rolling with large plastic rollers Using essential oils and protein-based products that straighten hair naturally Trying a hair mask Hair length also plays a role in the appearance of thickness.  This totally depends on each person and there is a happy spot that your full head of hair looks its best.  Typically, hair that's too short can look thinner, hair that's long can look fuller.  But fine hair that is too long, can lack volume.  The common thread is that healthier hair strands with be more flexible and less prone to breakage. Look for conditioners that penetrate the hair shaft with healthful natural oils.  Avoid silicones that coat the outside of the strand, suffocate it, and cause it to be more brittle.  Wherever you are in your hair journey, understanding what makes hair thicker is the first step to letting go of what you can’t control and taking charge of what you can.  Look for routines that take care of your scalp and hair follicles – including eating well, sleep, and products made with healthful ingredients.  Play with ways to accentuate or soften your natural curl pattern. Here's to getting to your healthiest, fullest head of hair! - Abigail

It’s Transgender Awareness Week!   This means that it's a great time to make sure you’re ready to support the Trans and Nonbinary community.  To learn what we can all do for our trans family and friends we turned to PFLAG - Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays.  Why PFLAG? PFLAG is the first and largest organization dedicated to supporting, educating, and advocating for LGBTQ+ people and their families. PFLAG’s network of hundreds of chapters and more than 325,000 members and supporters works to create a caring, just, and affirming world for LGBTQ+ people and those who love them. What is Transgender Awareness Week? Transgender Awareness Week is a week when transgender people and their allies take action to bring attention to the community by educating the public about who transgender people are, sharing stories and experiences, and advancing advocacy around issues of prejudice, discrimination, and violence that affect the transgender community. According to PFLAG, here are 3 easy steps to being a better Trans Ally:  Learn, Watch, Share. STEP 1: Learn: Check out straightforequality.org/trans to help you learn more about what you can do to be a better ally to individuals who identify as transgender and/or nonbinary, no matter where you are on your ally journey.     What is “Straight for Equality”?  According to PFLAG, “Allies have been changing the world and expanding inclusion in phenomenal ways …. Launched in 2015, the newest module in the Straight for Equality program aims to provide allies with key learning tools, like the guide to being a trans ally, recommended resources and organizations doing trans inclusion work, and educational opportunities through the Straight for Equality in the Workplace program … whether you're an ally looking to expand your efforts or you identify as someone from the lesbian, gay, and bisexual community and you want to send the message that equality means equality for everyone, we're thrilled that you're here.” STEP 2: Watch: Re-watch our Supporting Trans and Nonbinary Loved Ones: What Would You Do? PFLAG Academy Online session to keep your allyship skills sharp and focused. Want to learn more about Nonbinary identities? Be sure to also take a look at What The +?: Understanding and Supporting Expansive LGBTQ+ Identities.  Supporting Our Trans Loved Ones: What Would You Do? from PFLAG National on Vimeo. STEP 3: Share: Use social media to help spread the word about virtual events in your community meant to commemorate Trans Awareness Week.  Taking the time to be a better ally sends the message that you care about your family, friends, and community.  We hope that these resources are as meaningful to you as they are to us! - Abigail + David

One of the most important things you can do for healthy scalp, happy follicles, and strong hair is to wash your hair right.   How can something so simple be so important? According to expert stylists, "It makes a big difference to any style, yet people are usually in too much of a rush to do it right."  A good shampoo removes product build-up, frees follicles from dirt, and let's your scalp breathe.   The most important thing to remember that a good shampoo takes time.  One stylist commented, "... set aside 5-10 minutes, relax, and pamper yourself." We brainstormed with ANTIDOTE expert stylists and here's what we agreed on: Gently brush your scalp with a nylon and boar bristle brush to stimulate blood flow and remove dirt.  Thoroughly wet your hair with warm water. This opens the hair cuticle and makes the shampoo spread more evenly throughout your hair. Mix your shampoo - typically 2 full teaspoons - with water first.  This gets the lather started to more evenly coat the hair and scalp. Show your scalp some love. That's where your hair is the most oily, and healthy follicles mean beautiful hair.  Start shampooing at your roots and work out from there.  Avoid scratching your scalp - this can cause abrasions - and beware that wet hair is fragile.  For a special treat, use a shampoo brush with gentle silicone "fingers". The second wash.  If you haven't washed your hair in a while or use a lot of product, a second wash works wonders.  You'll often see your professional stylist double washing to make sure you have a healthy base to work from. Rinse with cool water.  This closes the cuticle and soothes the scalp. Pat towel dry, don't rub, then let hair air dry.  Of course, the type of shampoo you use makes a big difference, too.   Look for ingredients like sulfate free cleansers, aloe vera bases, and Vitamin E.   When in doubt, look for "green ratings" from an independent rating organization such as the Environmental Working Group's SkinDeep database.  Every ANTIDOTE 1848 shampoo is green rated. Green rated products clean without stripping your hair of its natural oils and won't irritate your scalp. After all, beautiful hair starts with a healthy scalp!  While over 60% of what you put on your skin is absorbed into your body, 100% ends up in our streams and oceans.  Green rated products are also better for the environment. How does this compare to your normal shampoo routine? - ANTIDOTE 1848 Plant Powered Hair Care

What's old is new again.  Ancient medicine's star - Wisconsin ginseng - happens to be one of the hottest ingredient in hair care.  Find out why. We love Wisconsin Ginseng so much that we use it in our bestselling ANTIDOTE Ginseng Shampoo and Conditioner – a great everyday duo to restore moisture, stimulate follicles for hair growth, and add hair shine.  If you are new to Ginseng, read on.  We think that you’ll fall in love as much as we have, especially for Wisconsin-grown ginseng. Ginseng has been a staple of Eastern medicine for thousands of years because it works.  Whether as something to eat and drink, or as something to put on the skin, ginseng roots contain many restorative ingredients like essential oils, vitamins, and fatty acids.  What makes ginseng special, though, are its ginsenosides.  According to a team of researchers led by Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine’s Mengmeng Zheng, “Ginsenosides have unique biological activity and medicinal value, such as antitumor, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidation.”   Ginseng Benefits for Hair Because healthy hair starts with happy follicles, ginseng’s benefits for hair start with how it affects our skin and scalp. Healthline’s Beth Ann Mayer’s article “Ginseng Benefits for Skin” explains some of the benefits of Ginseng on skin: reducing wrinkles and signs of aging promoting elasticity and collagen production reducing puffiness and inflammation Collagen is Key.  According to WebMD “Collagen is a protein responsible for healthy joints and skin elasticity, or stretchiness. It's in your bones, muscles, and blood, comprising three quarters of your skin and a third of the protein in your body. As you age, your existing collagen breaks down, and it gets harder for your body to produce more.” On ginseng and collagen, Healthline’s Beth Ann explains, “Collagen loss begins in your 20s and 30s, though you don’t always see the effects until later…. ginseng can help slow the loss of collagen, helping the skin retain elasticity…. Natural chemicals in ginseng lead to increased circulation and oxygen and a boost in skin’s collagen production.” Ginseng and Hair Growth In her Healthline article, Beth Ann interviewed wellness expert, Dr. Jenelle Kim, Doctor of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine and Nationally Board Certified in Herbology, Oriental Medicine, and Acupuncture. Dr. Kim notes that “in Eastern medicine, the hair and skin are both considered extensions of blood circulation. That’s why your hair is [fuller] during pregnancy.  When [ginseng] increases circulation, it can help everything.” In a 2018 study by Young Choi of the Department of Pharmaceutical Science and Engineering, Seowon University called “Hair-Growth Potential of Ginseng,”  explains “The promotion of hair growth and prevention of hair loss by ginseng and its metabolites are associated with the induction of anagen and delaying of catagen phases.”  And thus, while there is not enough evidence to say that ginseng prevents hair loss, research indicates that it is possible to say that ginseng stimulates hair growth. Why Wisconsin Ginseng? Did you know… Wisconsin ginseng is considered the best in the world thanks to the unique soil and weather conditions in central Wisconsin. ANTIDOTE works directly with family farms dedicated to growing premium quality American ginseng in a sustainable way. In a Mayo Clinic study, Wisconsin ginseng reduced fatigue in cancer patients. Ginseng is native to Wisconsin. It is the climate and soil that allows Wisconsin ginseng to thrive here. For the highest quality roots, ginseng requires 75% shade, cool summers, and cold winters. Central Wisconsin delivers these regularly with 2 feet of snow and 2 feet of frost. Ginseng roots are vulnerable to fungus and these conditions protect them. Ginseng roots are coveted for their healthful ginsenosides. Revered for millennia for its cooling properties “Yin”, regular ginseng use boosts the immune system, stimulates circulation, and reduces inflammation. A 2012 Mayo Clinic study showed that ginseng reduced fatigue in cancer patients when taken over an 8-week period. An important note is that Ginseng doesn’t deliver an instant hit, it requires regular use to experience its benefits. Every year, Ginseng farmers invest an average of $20,000 per acre and 600 hours of labor to nuture their plants.  All this, with no return until the 3rd or 4th year. Where does ANTIDOTE’s Ginseng come from? Wisconsin ginseng cultivation comes down to 185 growers who manage nearly 2,000 acres. Dave Schumacher, VP of Ginseng Board of WI calls ginseng, “Wisconsin’s most unique crop.” He explains that seeds take 18 months to germinate. In summer, ginseng plants produce beautiful red berries.  In the fall, these are collected by hand and placed in wet sand for 1 year, then planted in fall, to sprout the following spring.  One of our partner farms explains the planting process in more detail, “American ginseng seeds require cold stratification before they are able to germinate.  Cold stratification is the process of exposing the seeds to cold and moist winter conditions.  This softens the seed coating and triggers the seed's embryo to grow.  Since ginseng seeds are typically sold after they have already been stratified, it is important to get them into the ground before the end of the planting season in the same year that the seeds are purchased.  Stratified seeds will begin to germinate whether or not they are planted.  The seeds cannot be stored and planted during the following season.” Farmers nurture ginseng plants for 3-4 years, which is when the roots, full of active ginsenosides, are mature enough to be harvested. We are proud that our ginseng is grown on family farms in central WI. Once harvested, our roots are dried, turned into powder, which is then added to our shampoo and conditioner formulas. Because we buy direct from family farms we know a lot about the ginseng we use and are able to pass on savings to you.  Looking for an easy way to incorporate ginseng into your everyday hair routine?  Try ANTIDOTE Ginseng Shampoo and Conditioner!   Restore moisture Improve scalp and follicle health Stimulating grapefruit essential oil scent As always, ingredients are the best part of ANTIDOTE 1848.  In addition to Wiscsonins ginseng,  you’ll find lots of: Texas aloe vera soothes the scalp and promotes hair strength and shine. Vitamin E provides excellent antioxidant, moisturizing and soothing properties that reduce inflammation and repair damage to skin and hair follicles. Grapefruit essential oil for its antibacterial benefits 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. The conditioner uses shea butter  that won’t weigh hair down. These formulas are green rated by the Environmental Working Group, an independent consumer advocacy group.  Green ratings let you know that these products meet the highest standards of safety for you and the environment. ANTIDOTE Shampoos are 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.   Pro tip: When using any sulfate free shampoo, make sure that your hair is super wet.  ANTIDOTE formulas are concentrated and needs water to activate the cleansing process. 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. And ANTIDOTE Ginseng Shampoo is gentle enough to use as a body wash, too! Are you in love with Wisconsin Ginseng now?  We hope that you found some of this interesting and if you haven’t tried ANTIDOTE Ginseng Shampoo and Conditioner, we hope you’ll give it a chance.  - Abigail + David