Skin Anarchy Episode Summary Episode Title: Scalp Care Deserves the Same Attention as Skin Health
Release Date: May 29, 2025
Host: Dr. Ekta Pellegrino
Guest: Kristen Chase, General Manager of New Trier

Introduction

In this insightful episode of Skin Anarchy, Dr. Ekta Pellegrino delves into the often-overlooked aspect of hair care: scalp health. Recognizing that scalp care is intrinsically linked to overall hair health, Dr. Ekta hosts Kristen Chase, the General Manager of New Trier, to explore how their innovative approach is revolutionizing the hair care industry by prioritizing the scalp alongside the hair strands.

Guest Background and Brand Genesis

Kristen Chase brings a wealth of experience from leading major beauty brands. Transitioning to New Trier, Kristen shares her excitement about building Nutrier from the ground up.

"[03:03] Kristen Chase: ...creating something from scratch, something from the very, very ground up, which was a challenge but also just so exciting to me, especially in the world of hair care."

Kristen emphasizes the unique opportunity to establish a brand that challenges traditional hair care norms by focusing on scalp health as the foundation for healthy hair growth.

The Importance of Scalp Health in Hair Care

Kristen highlights how traditional hair care has largely ignored the scalp, treating it merely as a base for hair strands. Nutrier aims to shift this perspective by treating the scalp as an extension of the skin, vital for nurturing healthy hair.

"[05:23] Kristen Chase: ...the scalp and the skin is what powers your healthiest hair."

She underscores the growing consumer awareness and acceptance of scalp care, likening it to the well-established practices in skincare.

Product Range and Skincare Principles Applied to Hair Care

Nutrier introduces a comprehensive hair care system inspired by skincare routines. The brand's approach includes three main components:

1. Treatments: Focused on scalp health.
2. Cleansers (Shampoos): Tailored to different scalp types.
3. Conditioners: Customized to hair strand types.

"[08:11] Kristen Chase: We really took skincare principles and applied it to the range."

This structured system mirrors skincare routines, making it intuitive for consumers to integrate scalp care into their hair care regimen.

Customizing Hair Care Based on Scalp and Hair Types

Kristen explains the categorization of scalp types akin to skin types (dry, normal, oily), allowing consumers to select products that cater specifically to their scalp needs.

"[10:14] Kristen Chase: ...we think of that when they think about their hair too, because your scalp is an extension of your face. It's your skin, and that means your scalp has a type as well."

This approach simplifies the shopping experience, helping consumers make informed decisions based on their unique scalp and hair profiles.

Key Ingredients and Formulation Insights

A significant discussion revolves around the formulation of Nutrier's products, particularly the inclusion of Complex 8, a blend of eight natural ingredients designed to block DHT (dihydrotestosterone), a hormone that can impede hair growth.

"[16:58] Kristen Chase: ...Complex 8 is actually a complex made of eight potent natural ingredients. And what it does is it works together to help block the development of DHT within the hair strand and follicle so that hair can grow healthier."

Kristen also highlights the use of lactic acid in their T2 Night Serum, combined with jojoba oil to ensure gentle exfoliation without irritation.

"[21:52] Kristen Chase: ...we wanted to combine jojoba oil with lactic acid into this formula, which meant that as it's working and it's gently exfoliating, it's also nourishing at the same time."

Clinical Efficacy and Gentle Formulations

Nutrier prides itself on clinically proven products that are both effective and gentle on the scalp. Kristen details their rigorous product development process, ensuring each product meets scientific standards for efficacy without compromising scalp sensitivity.

"[21:52] Kristen Chase: ...we wanted to be able to stand up behind our claims and know that they would be validated... from a scientifically measured standpoint."

The T2 Night Serum exemplifies this balance, utilizing time-release technology to deliver active ingredients gradually, enhancing efficacy while minimizing potential irritation.

"[21:52] Kristen Chase: ...time releasing those actives into your scalp and exfoliating and nourishing, you know, the entire time you're sleeping."

Holistic Approach to Hair and Scalp Care

Kristen elaborates on Nutrier's dual diagnosis model, addressing both scalp and strand health simultaneously. This comprehensive approach ensures long-term hair health by treating underlying scalp conditions while nourishing the hair strands.

"[18:16] Kristen Chase: ...our shampoo shampoos are designed by the scalp to restore balance and support a healthy follicle environment. Then our conditioners are tailored by strand types..."

This synergy between scalp and hair strand care distinguishes Nutrier in a saturated market, providing a cohesive and effective hair care solution.

Future Innovations and Brand Vision

Looking ahead, Kristen hints at ongoing innovations aimed at further enhancing scalp and hair health, staying true to Nutrier's mission of science-backed, sustainable hair care solutions.

"[27:22] Kristen Chase: ...we're really trying to work on innovations that stay true to Nutrier's mission... creating thoughtful, efficacious products that meet consumers where they are on their hair wellness journey."

Conclusion

Dr. Ekta Pellegrino wraps up the episode by encouraging listeners to explore Nutrier's offerings, emphasizing the brand's commitment to educating consumers and providing scientifically validated products for optimal scalp and hair health.

"[26:18] Dani Pellegrino: ...I really urge everyone listening, check out the brand."

Kristen thanks Dr. Ekta and the audience, leaving listeners with anticipation for future developments from Nutrier.

Key Takeaways

• Scalp Health is Crucial: Treating the scalp as a primary focus leads to healthier hair growth.
• Skincare Principles in Hair Care: Applying dermatological concepts to scalp care improves product efficacy and consumer understanding.
• Customized Hair Care: Tailoring products to specific scalp and hair types enhances the user experience and results.
• Clinically Proven Formulations: Ensuring products are both effective and gentle builds consumer trust and product reliability.
• Holistic Approach: Addressing both scalp and hair strands simultaneously provides comprehensive hair care solutions.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• "[03:03] Kristen Chase: ...creating something from scratch, something from the very, very ground up..."
• "[05:23] Kristen Chase: ...the scalp and the skin is what powers your healthiest hair."
• "[08:11] Kristen Chase: We really took skincare principles and applied it to the range."
• "[10:14] Kristen Chase: ...your scalp is an extension of your face. It's your skin..."
• "[16:58] Kristen Chase: ...Complex 8 is actually a complex made of eight potent natural ingredients."
• "[21:52] Kristen Chase: ...time releasing those actives into your scalp and exfoliating and nourishing..."
• "[18:16] Kristen Chase: ...our shampoo shampoos are designed by the scalp to restore balance..."
• "[27:22] Kristen Chase: ...we're really trying to work on innovations that stay true to Nutrier's mission..."

Further Engagement

Listeners are encouraged to visit Nutrier's website, follow the brand on social media, and engage with additional content on the Skin Anarchy blog for deeper insights into scalp and hair health.

This summary provides a comprehensive overview of the "Scalp Care Deserves the Same Attention as Skin Health" episode of Skin Anarchy, capturing all essential discussions, insights, and conclusions shared by Dr. Ekta Pellegrino and Kristen Chase.