In continuing our chat with Philip B., the creator of hair care that Forbes magazine named to its “100 Things Worth Every Penny” list, we learn more about him as an individual and the perks of running a world-class business. I interviewed him by email.
I wondered if the wide use of extensions has made people unrealistic about how real hair looks or grows. “We are not all genetically blessed with a great thick head of hair and lustrous locks that are able to go the distance. Growth patterns are slow and many have limitations. Natural hair grows at best 1/2 inch to maybe an inch per month.
“Extensions can be an instant gratification moment like makeup to create a look. It is for people who do not have patience or a great remedy to "fill in" until a cut or style gets longer. Extensions are also great to test drive temporary hair color changes — or after a postpartum loss.”
Philip B. discussed how haircare changed the most over the years. “The industry is more focused [finally] cleaner more conscious formulas with better ingredients.
“We have seen the boom in the "skinification" of treating our scalp with the same level of medical grade cosmeceuticals as the face. Exfoliation nourishment and hydration are all at the forefront.
“I have been saying great hair comes from a great scalp for 2 decades. How to accomplish it starts by using better, botanically based treatment products. It's all about plants that help and heal the scalp.
“Manufacturers needed to build more efficacious products and meet consumer demands as clients became savvier with ingredients. They have finally caught up with me. Vegan and plant based is a big issue now in the industry. I have been all plant based since 1991 — with a no animal policy.”
I asked if there are places in the world he’d like to visit to discover new materials.
“India is next on the list,” he said. “There is a lot to discover there in terms of indigenous natural herbs and plants. Ayurveda is an ancient traditional Indian system of medicine that remains a living tradition today. The natural healing ingredients we can find and learn from there are endless.
“I am always researching and we already source our peppermint oil from India, but I have never been. It's next for Michael and I as soon as the world opens up safely — we are there!
“I want to go back to Australia for their incredible native outback herbs like waddle seeds, lemon myrtle native pepper berry. I am also curious about the indigenous healing plants and rich soils with incredible mineral properties in New Zealand.”
Philip B. has always kept his line at the luxury level; I was curious as to whether he was ever tempted to go mass market.
“No, not really. I make an elevated product for an educated consumer who is willing to make an investment in their scalp and hair,” he said.
“It is a commitment without compromise. I believe in the commitment to continue to invest in the product research, development and formulation — not just add new sku's [stock keeping units] seasonally or increase production line runs.
“I have 2 decades of integrity in these formulas and they just cannot be done to scale for a mass audience. We are all over the world at the best salons, independent beauty retailers and e-tailers.
“We are a benchmark brand and we want to keep that high for the consumer who is willing and able to meet us there.
“We can't compete and we can't educate at the mass market level — there are tens of thousands of other brands who can and do.”
Philip B. being so creative, I wondered about his hobbies, asking if he’s into sports, the arts, gardening, cooking, etc.
“Design, music, fitness and cooking,” he said. “Well, cooking with (his husband) Michael, who is an incredible cook and pastry chef. We do it together and it makes us happy. I also enjoy practicing my DJ skills for the dance parties I know we'll have again when Covid living is really behind us.
“Although we travel for work — being home is great for some R&R but we also still love visiting our friends around the world.”
I mused that investing in your hair makes good financial sense and asked him to speak to that.
“Hair is your best accessory to your face. It's the frame to your art — so it deserves the best for a reason. Giving an investment of finance, time, attention and techniques will pay off. It results in a better, more confident you. It's a savings account and you are making a scalp deposit. When you protect your hair and scalp you do not need to spend time and waste money to correct it!
“Looking into the mirror when beauty is looking back makes you feel better about everything. A great hair day starts off a great day. It's a natural mood booster.”
Thank you, Philip B., for sharing your expert advice and insights into your brilliance!
Tamar Alexia Fleishman was the Chicago Symphony Orchestra's youngest female solo violinist. A world-traveler, Fleishman provides readers with international flavor and culture. She's debated Bill Maher, Greta Van Susteren and Dr. Phil. Fleishman practices law in Maryland with a J.D. from the University of Baltimore, a B.A. in Political Science from Goucher College. Read Tamar Alexia Fleishman's Reports — More Here.
© 2026 Newsmax. All rights reserved.