In this episode in partnership with Wella Professionals Dom sits down for an in-depth conversation with Jon Walker, the Education Brand Manager at Wella Professionals, and Katharina Liebner, the Senior Manager of Product Development at Wella. We are diving into the intricate world of professional hair care, particularly focusing on the cutting-edge research and development involved in launching new products. This discussion gives us a fascinating glimpse behind the scenes of Wella’s extensive expertise in hair science, cultivated over 140 years and supported by multiple global research centers.
The conversation unfolds at the Wella London Studio, where Jon and Katharina share their unique pathways to their current roles within the company. Through their insights, we explore the collaborative process behind developing new hair care products, from initial ideation to formulation. We’ll discuss the way stylists play a crucial role in product creation, influencing everything from performance behind the chair to ensuring that new launches truly meet the needs of both professionals and clients. The episode emphasises Wella’s dedication to combining scientific innovation with artistry, resulting in products that are thoughtfully co-created with hairdressers.
Throughout our chat, we delve into what causes hair damage in everyday life—identifying often-overlooked factors such as pollution and styling techniques, while emphasising the importance of a holistic approach to hair care. Katharina explains how Wella’s Ultimate Repair line addresses these issues effectively by utilising patented technology like AHA and omega-9 to repair hair from both inside and out. We discuss how today’s consumers are leaning towards “skinification,” treating their hair with the same critical care as their skincare, and how products are created to reflect this trend.
Our conversation also takes a practical turn when we discuss how Wella assesses the effectiveness of their products. Testing protocols involve thorough feedback from both internal experts and external hairdressers, ensuring that each new product not only meets but exceeds industry standards. Jon highlights the complexity involved in launching new hair care lines, often spanning a timeline of months to even years, ensuring rigorous testing and quality assurance before any product ever reaches the market.
Moreover, we discuss the industry’s evolving landscape, where trends can emerge and change rapidly. Connecting insights from consumer desires to brand innovation remains a priority for Wella. As Jon and Katharina share the technology and methodologies underpinning product development, they emphasise the critical need to keep pace with the dynamic demands of both stylists and consumers.
You can also look forward as Katharina teases upcoming launches while Jon highlights the significance of community engagement in shaping Wella’s offerings. Their interaction with stylists and clients reinforces their commitment to creating products that not only enhance the everyday experiences of hair professionals but also improve the confidence and satisfaction of their clients.By the end of this episode, you will gain a newfound appreciation for the meticulous work that goes into delivering high-performance hair care products. From scientific research to artistic formulation, the narrative of Wella’s products showcases a commitment to excellence in every aspect, ultimately striving to empower hairstylists and elevate their craft behind the chair.
