For most men, there is another thing to add to the list of sure things in life, including death and taxes, and that’s hair loss. Proof is in the fact that so many men’s shampoos and conditioners focus on addressing that issue above all else. Natural and botanical brand Aveda is throwing their hat in the ring by adapting its already successful women’s thickening line, Invati, which is inspired by Ayurveda, the 5,000-year healing art of India, to men’s needs. Aveda’s Yann Marois and hair guru Frank Rizzieri lay out what sets Invati apart, why you should probably stock up on the stuff, and how to fake fuller hair.
Why did you decide to offer a man-specific line?
Marois: Our research shows that hair thinning/loss is the number two global hair care concern, affecting 4 in 10 men.* (*Generic/Non-user Hair Care Survey, Aveda, 2009). Men may begin to notice thinning at a younger age, in their early 20’s—I actually started when I was 18—but most do nothing about it.
How does the men’s line different from the women’s version?
Marois: Invati Men is a two-step system, with a shampoo and scalp treatment. It does not include a conditioner because most men do not use conditioner (only 1 out of 10 do). Instead, we added conditioning properties to the shampoo for nourishment to help strengthen thinning hair. The fact that this system is only 2 steps with a shampoo and a scalp revitalizer to be used once a day makes it the perfect fit in men’s daily routine. Also, The Invati Men “Scalp Revitalizer” treatment is a “drip-free serum,” instead of the spray in the women’s line. This was designed specifically for men so the serum would stay on the scalp and not run off, as men have shorter hair then women.
What makes it work?
Marois: It’s formulated with a potent blend of plant actives. The shampoo exfoliates and refreshes the scalp while conditioning to help strengthen thinning hair. Wintergreen-derived salicylic acid helps remove build-up and excess sebum, which can clog pores. And the treatment instantly thickens hair at the root, while helping keep the hair you have longer. When massaged in, it invigorates the scalp, helping increase micro-circulation, with a potent blend of plant actives, including ginseng and certified organic turmeric.
What are some steps you can take to maintain a full head of hair?
Rizzieri: A healthy full head of hair starts with a good hair regimen. Start by giving yourself a 2 to 3 minute scalp massage to help the blood flow to the scalp. I also love using the Aveda Wooden Paddle Brush to massage the scalp with the bristles of the brush. Always comb through any tangles or knots in your hair—continued excessive pulling will break your hair.
What types of haircuts are best providing the illusion of fuller hair?
Rizzieri: Medium or short cuts work the best because these cuts have lengths that overlap in multiple layers. The overlapping lengths create volume and give the hair the illusion of fullness.
What should you avoid to prevent breakage and other causes of thinning hair?
Rizzieri: Avoid styling products that have a high alcohol content as they can dry out the hair, which may cause excess pulling and knotting that can cause breakage.
Aveda Invati Men Nourishing Exfoliating Shampoo, $35 and Scalp Revitalizer, $65
