Clairol hair care

Clairol is a pioneering American hair color brand with a history dating back to 1931. It was founded by Lawrence and Joan Gelb after they discovered a revolutionary hair coloring preparation in France that actually penetrated the hair shaft rather than just coating it. Originally headquartered in Stamford, Connecticut, the brand transformed the beauty industry by introducing the first at-home hair color kits in the 1950s, famously marketed with the slogan "Does she... or doesn't she?"

Over the decades, Clairol's ownership has transitioned through several major corporations. It was acquired by Bristol-Myers (later Bristol-Myers Squibb) in 1959, then sold to Procter & Gamble (P&G) in 2001. In 2016, P&G divested its beauty portfolio, including Clairol, to Coty Inc. Most recently, in 2020, the investment firm KKR purchased a majority stake in the Wella Company (which includes the Clairol brand) from Coty, making KKR the ultimate owner.

Today, Clairol products are manufactured in multiple locations worldwide to serve global markets, though the brand maintains strong ties to its American roots. Its portfolio remains a staple in the hair-dye category, featuring well-known lines such as Nice 'n Easy, Natural Instincts, and Root Touch-Up.