By Dr. James Mercer

Photography by Francois Mercer,

Karyn Millet - NYC Studio

Chaz Dean is a renowned celebrity hairstylist and founder of WEN Hair & Body Care products. With over 25 years of experience in the industry, Chaz has built a reputation for his innovative approach to haircare and his expertise in creating healthy, luxurious locks.

BELLA Magazine is thrilled to dive into the world of Chaz Dean and discover his secrets to stunning, red-carpet-worthy hair.

Can you share with our readers how your journey in the beauty industry began and how you discovered your passion for hair care?

My journey in the beauty industry began when I was in high school. I took photography classes throughout high school and continued even after graduation. I took an in-depth commercial course in photography which is when I realized that I wanted to incorporate hair and makeup into my vision for my photography. I enrolled in cosmetology school and as they say: the rest is history.

What inspired you to create Wen by Chaz Dean?

The number one reason I created WEN by Chaz Dean was because I got tired of my clients' color fading so quickly. I knew that the harsh chemicals found in traditional shampoos would cause the color to fade and the hair to break down, getting finer, thinner, and weaker with each shampoo. I also got tired of shampooing my hair twice a day, because every time I would use shampoo to wash my hair, it would rob my scalp of my natural oils. My body would then work overtime to replenish those oils, causing me to have an oily scalp and dry hair, thus leading me to wash my hair AGAIN, creating a damaging cycle. I knew there had to be a better way to cleanse and treat your hair and scalp.

Your brand has had a significant impact on the lives of countless individuals. Can you share a few stories or testimonials that highlight the positive effects Wen by Chaz Dean has had on people's hair health and confidence?

I have heard 10's of thousands of incredible testimonials since the launch of WEN in November 2000. From building confidence to changing their lives to helping them through health crisis ordeals - whether it's a newborn baby or a one-hundred-year-old woman, I've heard endless stories from people telling me WEN has given them the head of hair they've always dreamed of. That is exactly why I do what I do - to help enhance, enrich, and change people's lives for the better.

How do you incorporate your love for animals and the environment into the formulations and practices of Wen by Chaz Dean?

WEN has always been cruelty-free, no animal byproducts, no animal testing since I launched my products in November 2000. This is something that is crucially important to me because of my love for animals. As far as the environment goes, nature has always been very special and important to me. I always work very closely with nature, making sure to utilize its beautifying and healing properties while creating my products.

Can you explain some of the key ingredients and unique formulations that set Wen by Chaz Dean products apart from others in the market?

The fact that I have completely eliminated lather from my life and products has set me apart in the industry.

Are there any specific hair care tips or rituals that you recommend to your clients and customers?

My WEN Botanical Hair & Scalp Tonic is a great way to help stimulate and promote fuller, thicker, stronger healthy hair growth. I suggest using it daily, as a nightly routine, to receive optimal results. Then, follow up with proper cleansing using your WEN Cleansing Conditioner. Lastly, try to avoid excessive heat damage from hot tools!

With your expertise and constant innovation, what new developments or products can we expect from Wen by Chaz Dean in the future?

Look for an extension to my Bella Spirit Indigo collection. I will be launching Bella Spirit Indigo Toning Styling Creme and Indigo Toning Treatment Mousse. There are also new Seasonal and Blessing Collections coming soon. Each year I create between 10-40 new products.

Are there any exciting projects or collaborations we can look forward to?

I am extremely excited to announce that I am working with an Italian laboratory that is helping me bring my signature "Hybrid Color Glossing Treatments" to the market. I have been working with them on a vegan, cruelty-free, and ammonia-free line for over two years already.