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ABOUT THE TEST

HOW IT WORKS

INGREDIENTS

PACKAGING

AVAILABILITY

SUBSCRIPTIONS

SHIPPING

RETURNS

ABOUT THE HAIR LAB

ABOUT THE TEST

How do I take the Strands Test, and how long does it take?

You can take The Strands Test online , or in-store on your mobile device using the QR code on the display. The test takes approximately two minutes to complete, and you’ll get your results right away. 

Which hair concerns do you address?

The Hair Lab doses are formulated to customize your shampoo, conditioner and leave-in conditioner with ingredients selected based on your hair’s biology and concerns. We have doses available to address the top 12 most common hair concerns:

How can I tell my hair texture?

You can easily feel a thick (aka coarse) strand between your fingers, but not a fine one. If you have a variety of hair textures, please select the one that’s most prevalent. If you’re in between (ie, between fine- and medium-textured or between medium- and coarse-textured), select the extreme (ie, either fine or coarse).

How can I tell my scalp type?

A dry scalp usually feels tight and irritated, while an oil-prone one typically weighs hair down. If neither of these sounds right, your scalp is most likely balanced. If you’re between two types (ie, between oil-prone and balanced or between balanced and dry), choose the extreme (ie, dry or oil-prone).

How can I tell my natural hair type?

Here, we’re looking at whether your hair is naturally straight, wavy, curly or coily. So, think about the original shape of your strands, before you had any treatments. If you have a variety of hair types, select the one that’s most prevalent.

You ask about the treatments I use. Why do they matter?

Different treatments and styles can have an impact on the condition and needs of your hair, which is why knowing about them helps us make better, more tailored product recommendations. So don’t hold back — make sure to select all the treatments and styles you currently use! 

Why do you ask for my zip code?

Knowing your zip code helps us understand the specific environmental factors that impact your hair on a daily basis, such as temperature, UV index, water hardness, air pollution and humidity. 

Do I have to take the Strands Test before choosing my formulas?

We recommend taking the Strands Test to get the best results. Knowing more about your hair biology helps us provide you with the most effective and personalized recommendations.

How often should I retake the Strands Test?

You should retake the Strands Test if you get any chemical treatments that physically alter the color or texture of your hair. Similarly, if you discontinue chemical treatments and revert to your hair’s natural state, we recommend retaking the test after approximately two to three months. If you live in an area where humidity changes seasonally, it’s best to take the test seasonally to make sure those changes are accounted for in your next set of customized formulas. 

HOW IT WORKS

How do I know which products are right for me, and how does the customization work?

From the thickness of your strands to the oil level of your scalp, from the treatments you get to the humidity in the air, your hair is impacted by a myriad of factors that are impossible to track without help. That’s why we thrive on data. Using the Strands Test, we’re able to accurately assess your hair care needs – and customize formulas to address them. After you complete your hair analysis, you’ll receive a report with your results and customized recommendations, which will include: shampoo, conditioner, leave-in conditioner, and up to six precision dose sets. Together, our system works to address all your hair needs. At prices that leave no one out. 

Does The Hair Lab work for all ethnicities and hair types?

Yes! At The Hair Lab, we believe no two strands are alike. That’s why we start with an in-depth analysis of your strands. Using our high-tech hair analysis, and our Test, Know, Customize + Go methodology, we start by understanding your hair’s unique biology and needs. Then, we build a customized hair care routine to match — all types, textures, styles and budgets. Because we believe that everyone deserves the healthy-looking, head-turning hair of their dreams, our individually tailored approach was made with everyone in mind, with ingredients formulated for strands of all kinds. Inclusive for all. Exclusively for you.

What should I buy to ensure I have everything I need?

We recommend starting with the Essentials Routine custom-recommended for your hair’s unique biology, which will include: 1 shampoo + 1 conditioner + up to 3 dose sets (which each contain two doses). For best results, we’ll also suggest an Enhanced Routine to level up your hair care. This will include: 1 leave-in conditioner + up to 3 additional dose sets.

What are the three blank rectangles on my bottles?

Good catch! On the side of our shampoo, conditioner and leave-in conditioner bottles, below the words “My Code,” we’ve left three rectangles blank. It’s to help you remember your unique formula once you’ve recycled your dose packaging. Once you unbox your dose sets, simply remove the peel-off labels from the vials (notice how they’re inspired by the periodic table of elements, in a nod to our science background), and add them to your bottles. This way, you’ll always remember your unique code! 

How do I mix my shampoo and conditioner with the doses?

Easy! Each dose set comes with two doses in it. For each of the three doses recommended for your shampoo and conditioner, pour one full vial of each dose into your shampoo bottle. Ensure the cap is tightly closed and shake well for 30 seconds. Repeat with the remaining vials in your conditioner bottle. Remember, keep shaking for a full 30 seconds as it takes this long to fully mix, and shake hard enough that you can hear the shampoo and conditioner sloshing around in the bottle.

How do I mix my leave-in conditioner with the doses?

Easy! For your three doses recommended for your leave-in conditioner, pour one full vial of each dose into your leave-in conditioner bottle. Ensure the cap is tightly closed and shake well for 30 seconds. Tip: shake hard enough that you can hear the leave-in conditioner sloshing around in the bottle.

What should I do with the extra doses from my leave-in conditioner?

Since you are only using one dose vial from the recommended dose sets for your leave-in conditioner, you will have extras. Feel free to save these for your next bottle of leave-in conditioner. Or if you prefer, you can add the extra doses to your conditioner. (It’s ok to use more than three doses – the main concern is overflowing, so just make sure you use your conditioner a few times before adding the extra doses.)

How do I know if my formulations are mixed?

You’ll want to look for a homogenous, uniform mixture. For example, there should be no clear, brown or purple liquid still visible, depending on which doses you added.

What color should the doses be?

With the exception of the Anti-Brass Dose Set, our doses range in color from clear to shades of brown. That’s because we don’t add any dyes or colorants to our doses, so the hue you see reflects the inherent, natural color of the ingredients. (Because we’re serious about clean beauty, our cruelty-free dose formulas are also free from phthalates, sulfates, parabens, fragrance and mineral oils.) Our Anti-Brass Dose Set is purple-hued only because we add specific, innovative pigments to neutralize unwanted brassiness and yellow tones in blonde and silver hair. While it won’t stain, we recommend pouring carefully and cleaning up spills immediately. 

Do I have to use doses in my shampoo, conditioner and leave-in conditioner?

You don’t have to add doses to your shampoo, conditioner or leave-in conditioner, but for the best, personalized results, we recommend adding the three doses custom-recommended for your hair’s needs to each of your products. 

Can I add two or three of the same dose to my shampoo, conditioner or leave-in conditioner?

Adding more than one of the same dose set (for example, multiple Moisture Boost Dose Sets) to your shampoo, conditioner or leave-in conditioner is not recommended. You won’t experience any adverse effects, but it won’t increase the efficacy of your formulas. 

What happens if I want to use more than three doses?

The main concern with adding more than three doses to your shampoo, conditioner or leave-in conditioner is that the bottle may overflow and there won’t be enough room to mix thoroughly. If you want to add more than three doses, wait until you’ve used the product a few times to ensure there is plenty of room.

What happens if I spill my dose?

If part of the dose spills, you can still add the remainder to your shampoo, conditioner or leave-in conditioner and you’ll get the benefit of the amount added. If all of it spills, you can proceed with using the shampoo, conditioner or leave-in conditioner until you’re able to buy a replacement dose.

What if I accidentally put two of the same doses in my shampoo, conditioner or leave-in conditioner?

That’s OK. Your shampoo, conditioner, or leave-in conditioner is still completely safe to use if you accidentally add two of the same dose. You just won’t get a more efficacious result than you would have with just one dose. That’s because each dose contains the precise recommended concentration for maximum efficacy. Because we believe in less waste, more great hair.

Can I buy the shampoo, conditioner or leave-in conditioner only?

Absolutely. You’re welcome to buy the products that work best for your strands, whether it’s the shampoo, conditioner, leave-in conditioner, or any combination of the three. However, because we believe customized hair care is a science, not a guessing game, we always recommend taking our 2-minute hair test and discovering the shampoo, conditioner, leave-in conditioner, and dose sets custom-recommended for your hair’s biology and needs. 

Can I apply a dose directly to my hair?

The doses are not designed to be applied directly to your hair without first mixing them into one of our shampoos, conditioners or leave-in conditioners.

Can I add a dose to a different brand of shampoo or conditioner?

The ingredients in our formulas are designed to work together. Because of our high-tech hair analysis and customization process, our dose sets are optimized to provide best results when added to The Hair Lab shampoos, conditioners, and leave-in conditioners.

How do I know that I’m using enough shampoo?

Since our formulas are sulfate-free, your shampoo may lather less than you’re used to. In some instances, the lather may be very light due to the active ingredients we’ve added to your custom-recommended routine. We recommend starting with a few pumps of shampoo and massaging the product into your scalp, before working it down to the ends. If you don’t feel like you have the proper coating over your hair, use more product. Please note that sometimes there’s a transition period when switching to sulfate-free shampoo, and it can take two to three washes to adjust. 

Do I need to shake my shampoo, conditioner and leave-in conditioner every time I use them?

If you’ve shaken your products well when you added your dose sets, there’s no need to shake with every use. Though we applaud your enthusiasm!

How should I store The Hair Lab products?

All of our products have been formulated to withstand the warm temperatures and humidity of an average bathroom environment. 

What’s the shelf life after opening and mixing my hair care?

Adding your doses does not affect the stability of your formulas, and they won’t separate after being mixed well. Rest assured, your shampoo, conditioner and leave-in conditioner will remain stable for at least two years after customizing with your recommended dose sets. 

How long does it take to see results?

Great question! The short answer is: It varies for everyone. Some custom’ers notice a difference immediately while others have seen changes over three to four weeks. On average, we recommend using your new hair care routine consistently for two weeks to see results. 

INGREDIENTS

Do you use "clean" ingredients?

All of our products are safe to use and created using the highest quality personal care ingredients. Because we’re serious about clean beauty, our formulas are free from ingredients harmful to you, your hair and the planet. All are sulfate-free, paraben-free, phthalate-free, mineral oil-free and cruelty-free. 

Are your products vegan?

We strive to provide our custom’ers with the most efficacious products, using the most effective ingredients, and in some cases vegan alternatives are not available. However, we are committed to selecting ethically sourced ingredients, always. We recommend that you please check the ingredient list on the label, or on our website, to see if the product you’re purchasing contains any animal-derived ingredients. 

Are your products cruelty-free?

Yes, all of our products are cruelty-free. The Hair Lab does not and has no plans to conduct any animal testing.

Are your products tested on animals?

The Hair Lab does not and has no plans to conduct any animal testing. None of our products are tested on animals and no animal testing is done on our behalf by our ingredient suppliers.

Can I use The Hair Lab if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?

There are no specific restrictions for using our products when pregnant or breastfeeding. However, we always recommend consulting your doctor or medical provider with questions or concerns while you’re pregnant or breastfeeding.

Can all ages use your products?

Our products are not designed for children. All of our formulas have been tested for irritation and we’ve conducted studies on adult hair (human volunteers, of course). However, our formulations are not tear-free, and parents should consult their pediatrician with any questions or concerns about which personal care products are safe to use on their children. 

What fragrance is used in your products?

Because we believe that customized hair care can be transformative, we use our signature fragrance, Escape, in our shampoos, conditioners and leave-in conditioners. Notes of mango leaves, coconut and bamboo wood evoke the feeling of diving into the water for a tropical plunge! Our dose sets are all fragrance-free. 

Do you have scent-free or fragrance-free options?

Not right now. While our dose sets are fragrance-free, our shampoos, conditioners and leave-in conditioners contain our signature fragrance, Escape, with notes of mango leaves, coconut and bamboo wood. 

Why do you use multiple types of protein?

Your hair is substantially made of keratin protein. Our dose sets are formulated with several types of protein to target your hair care needs. Like hydrolyzed wheat protein, to help hydrate the hair shaft to restore hair tensile strength (aka the ability to withstand pulling and stretching). Or hydrolyzed vegetable and vegan protein, to improve elasticity in order to stretch the hair normally without breaking. In addition, proteins nourish your hair, helping to provide shinier, more manageable strands, while reducing oiliness and scalp build-up (thank you, rice and lemon protein).

Do your products support the Curly Girl Method?

Yes. All of our formulations are sulfate-free. All of our shampoos, conditioners and leave-in conditioners are silicone-free, and almost all of our dose sets are silicone-free as well. We do use silicones in our Heat Defense and Anti-Breakage dose sets because they allow us to address these hair concerns more effectively. Silicones transfer heat at a slower rate, which is beneficial for heat resistance, and they also provide a protective barrier to retain moisture. However, we’re careful to only use silicones that don’t cause build-up, and do wash out of hair easily, retain moisture and redefine the curl pattern.

Are your products safe on colored hair?

Yes, because all of our products are sulfate-free, and sulfates like SLES and SLS are the culprits known to cause color-loss. For an extra boost of color protection, we may custom-recommend our Color Protect Dose Set.

Are your products sulfate-free?

Yes, all of our products are sulfate-free. Sulfates like SLES and SLES are the culprits known to cause color-loss and to strip the hair of its natural oils. And at The Hair Lab, we believe you deserve the healthy-looking, head-turning hair of your dreams.

Are your products dye-free?

All of our products are dye-free, with the exception of our Anti-Brass Dose Set, which is formulated to help eliminate brassiness in blonde and silver hair. Any coloration you notice in the Anti-Brass dose is naturally occurring based on the ingredients used (for example, violet rice), and will not change the color of your shampoo and conditioner once well mixed. 

Are your products silicone-free?

Our shampoos, conditioners and leave-in conditioners are silicone-free, but we use silicones in two of our dose sets — Heat Defense and Anti-Breakage — because they allow us to address some hair concerns more effectively. That’s because silicones transfer heat at a slower rate, which is beneficial for heat resistance, and they also provide a protective barrier to retain moisture. However, we’re careful to only use silicones that don’t cause build-up, and do wash out of hair easily, retain moisture and redefine the curl pattern.

Are your products gluten-free?

All of our shampoos and conditioners are wheat-free, but our Repairing Leave-In Conditioner and two of our dose sets (Heat Defense and Rebuild Boost) contain hydrolyzed wheat protein. This is a restorative ingredient that attaches directly to the hair follicle and hardens the cuticle layer to form a barrier around the follicle for protection. Please check the ingredient list on the label or on our website, or share the ingredient list with your doctor or medical provider, to see if the product you’re purchasing is suitable for your use.

Are your products nut-free?

All of our formulations are peanut-free, but we do use jojoba oil, coconut oil, macadamia seed oil, and shea butter in some of our products. Please check the ingredient list on the label or on our website, or share the ingredient list with your doctor or medical provider, to see if the product you’re purchasing is suitable for your use. 

Are your products hypoallergenic?

The Hair Lab does not test for or claim that our products are hypoallergenic. If you have a specific allergy, please check the ingredient list on the label or on our website, or share the ingredient list with your doctor or medical provider, to see if the product you’re purchasing is suitable for your use. 

Do your products help with dandruff?

The Hair Lab Moisturizing Shampoo is specially formulated to soothe and gently cleanse a dry scalp. However, we don’t yet have a formulation specifically designed to treat dandruff.

Do your products work for dry hair or dry scalp?

Many of our formulations, such as our Moisturizing Shampoo and our Moisture Boost Dose Set, include ingredients specifically chosen to hydrate and add moisture back to the scalp and hair if that’s one of your concerns. Dry hair can be caused by many factors, like your environment, the condition of your cuticle and even the products you use. Washing your hair every day without a proper hair care regimen can strip your scalp of the natural oils it needs to stay hydrated. Over time, the hair becomes brittle and breaks due to dryness. That’s why we start with an in-depth analysis of your strands. In just two minutes, you’ll learn about your hair’s unique biology — and get a customized hair care routine to match.

Do your products help with hair loss?

We analyze your hair to look at a myriad of factors, including hair texture, scalp type, frizz, breakage, shine, hair treatments and environmental factors such as pollution and humidity to create a customized hair care routine to solve your hair care needs. At the moment, we don’t make products specific to hair loss. However, many times hair breakage can be the culprit behind the issue, in which case we may recommend customizing your products with our Anti-Breakage Dose Set.

Do your products help with medical conditions?

No, The Hair Lab does not diagnose or treat medical conditions, and our hair analysis technology is not intended to stand in for your doctor or other medical provider. Please reach out to your doctor or medical provider with any questions or concerns. 

PACKAGING

How big are your bottles?

Each shampoo and conditioner bottle contains 11 fluid ounces, each leave-in conditioner bottle contains 7 fluid ounces, and each dose vial contains 0.2 fluid ounces. The shampoo, conditioner and leave-in conditioner bottles are large enough to accommodate an additional volume of up to 0.6 fluid ounces with the addition of your three custom-recommended doses. 

Why are my shampoo, conditioner and leave-in conditioner bottles not full?

Our shampoo, conditioner and leave-in conditioner bottles have a larger capacity than the labeled amount to leave exactly enough room to accommodate your custom-recommended doses. There’s enough room in there for three doses!

Is your packaging recyclable?

Because we believe in less waste, more great hair, we use a minimum of 25% post-consumer recycled plastic (PCR) in all of our bottles. Our bottles are recyclable in most municipalities, but please check your local curbside recycling program.

Our dose boxes are made with Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI )-certified materials and are recyclable.

AVAILABILITY

Where can I buy The Hair Lab?

The Hair Lab is available throughout the United States. Our products can be purchased from TheHairLab.com, Walmart.com and at Walmart stores in the US.

How much do your products cost?

Our technology-driven approach delivers an empowering experience that we designed to be affordable. For current pricing, visit TheHairLab.com, Walmart.com or Walmart stores.

Do you offer samples?

Sorry, we’re not able to provide samples at this time, because each formulation is custom-recommended for you. 

SUBSCRIPTIONS

What are the benefits of subscribing?

Subscribing to your custom hair care routine ensures you never run out. You’ll also save money on each bottle in your routine, and receive free shipping on recurring subscription orders over $20. Rest assured your subscription can be updated or canceled anytime. 

How often do subscriptions renew?

We offer renewals every 1, 2 or 3 months. You can choose exactly which products you want to receive with your order. We’ll remind you of your upcoming renewal via email a few days before it ships, and you can manage your subscription anytime in your TheHairLab.com account.

How do I manage my subscription?

Like any good custom routine, your subscription is customizable to exactly what you need. Please login to your TheHairLab.com account anytime to update your custom formulas, change your renewal date or frequency, modify your shipping or billing info, or cancel your subscription.

How do I update my shipping or billing information?

You may update your shipping and billing information anytime by logging into your TheHairLab.com account.

SHIPPING

How much does shipping cost?

TheHairLab.com offers free standard shipping on orders over $35, and recurring subscription orders will receive free shipping on orders above $20. Otherwise, standard shipping is $5 and expedited shipping is available for an additional cost.

How long does shipping take?

Orders placed on TheHairLab.com ship within four business days via standard shipping. Expedited shipping is available for an additional cost.

How do I track my online order?

For orders placed on TheHairLab.com, please log on to your account to view your order status. To track an order placed through Walmart.com, please click here.

RETURNS

What if I don't like my products?

The Hair Lab is obsessed with making products that help you achieve beautiful hair. If you are not happy with your first order from TheHairLab.com within 30 days, you can return your products for a refund (less $5 for shipping on the original order). Please click here if you need to request a refund.

Please note that subscription refills are non-refundable, and purchases made from retailers may only be returned through the place of purchase.

ABOUT THE HAIR LAB

Where is The Hair Lab based?

We’re based out of sunny LA.

What is your relationship to Strands?

The Hair Lab by Strands is a customized hair care brand brought to you by Strands Hair Care, Inc., a pioneer in hair testing and precision formulation. For more information about Strands, click here.

What is your privacy policy?

To read our privacy statement, please click here

Does The Hair Lab sell or share customer data?

We use data to create custom hair care recommendations only, and we share your full data profile with you in your report. As our custom’er, we’re committed to keeping your information safe, and solely use it to provide you with better products and services. 

I'm an influencer, can we do a collaboration?

We love to collaborate! Please email us at hello@thehairlab.com . We’ll reach out if we’re interested in working together or if we have any questions.  

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