The Science
What's the science behind Hårklinikken's proven
hair and scalp care?
For over 30 years, Hårklinniken’s approach to product development has been rooted in clinical investigation. We proudly stand behind our research, trials, and testing, to deliver proven results.
This commitment to validation embodies our values as a science-driven brand. Our process begins with rigorous ingredient development, studying how form, delivery, and blends impact inflammation, as well as analysing growth markers tied to hair thinning and hair growth in vitro.
Next, we study how these high-performance ingredients work synergistically when used as part of a complete formula, and after safety testing we examine their performance and their ability to balance the scalp microenvironment, as well as defend hair quality and optimise conditions for hair growth.
Clinical trials with diverse participants – across age, gender, hair types, and regions – ensure comprehensive, real-world insights. This blend of scientific thoroughness and user feedback directly contributes to the efficacy of our products.
A Personal Journey - Hair Gain Extract
Hårklinikken founder and lead researcher Lars Skjøth spent his teenage years with a severe scalp condition. After years of dermatologist-prescribed, drug-based treatments, Skjøth began to explore more natural alternatives, while at the same time reading up on botanical medicine, hair and scalp biology, nutrition, and general dermatology.
After a couple of years, Skjøth started creating his first simple plant-based extract, as well as a mild shampoo. Initially results were subtle, but enough to keep testing on friends, family, and other volunteers.
Over time, better results sparked a passion for further research, motivating Skjøth to further his studies. He advanced to clinical and lab research, launching his first clinic and laboratory in 1992. Over the past three decades, Skjøth’s work has positioned Hårklinikken as a leader in scalp and hair care. Known for its innovative, diagnostic-driven approach, as well as blending ancient wisdom with modern science, Hårklinikken's groundbreaking Hair Gain Extract offers a revolutionary, drug-free hair growth solution that really works.
Why Scalp Health Really Matters
A healthy scalp is the key to unlocking thicker, stronger hair, creating the necessary environment for hair follicles to grow and thrive.
Circulation & Nutrient Delivery: Good scalp circulation is key to delivering oxygen, blood, and nutrients to hair follicles, fueling healthy hair growth. Optimal blood flow supports stronger, nourished hair from root to tip.
Hair Follicle Health: Follicles are essential for hair growth, but stress, ageing, and hormonal changes can cause inflammation and damage. Keeping follicles clear and healthy promotes stronger, thicker hair and reduces thinning.
Scalp Barrier Integrity: A damaged scalp barrier can lead to dryness, irritation, and inflammation, contributing to hair thinning and loss. A healthy barrier locks in moisture, protects from environmental stress, and fosters the ideal environment for thick, strong hair growth.
Scalp Microbiome: A balanced scalp microbiome of beneficial bacteria and fungi is crucial for preventing dandruff, itching, and inflammation, all of which can disrupt hair growth and overall hair health.
Scalp Hygiene: Skipping hair washes can lead to clogged follicles and scalp inflammation, hair thinning and loss. Proper scalp care ensures a clean, healthy foundation for stronger, fuller hair growth.
User Trials
User trials play a vital role in our product testing process, taking place after ingredient validation, formulation, and initial proof of concept testing. These trials are conducted through various formats, including in-clinic, external collaborations with dermatologists, and third-party research facilities. This multifaceted approach allows us to gather comprehensive feedback and validate our products effectively in different settings.
Participant Recruitment: We select a diverse group of participants, which may include existing clients and new users depending on the study's objectives.
Trial Design
Each trial is designed based on
specific goals, and participants
are informed about the study's
aims and procedures.
Application Instructions
Participants receive detailed
guidelines on product usage,
frequency, and quantity to ensure
consistency across the trial.
Data Collection
Throughout the trial, we collect
data through surveys, interviews,
photography, and direct
observations. Participants
provide feedback on their
experiences, including changes
in hair health, texture, and overall
satisfaction.
Follow-Up Assessments
Depending on the study duration,
follow-up assessments may be
conducted to monitor progress
and gather ongoing feedback.
Analysis and Reporting
Collected data is analysed post-
trial to evaluate product
performance and participant
satisfaction.
“From the lab to the clinic and back again.”
LARS Skjøth - Hårklinikken Founder & Lead Researcher‘The Hårklinikken journey has many chapters. I learned a lot from my studies, and from the early days of research and development. I learn a lot in the lab, and from our cohort of scientific advisors. But more than anything, I learn in the clinics, working alongside my clients.’
10 Years In The Making
Our decade-long journey to develop Harklinikken's supplement line began back in 2013, with two years of extensive research, during which we compiled data on beneficial substances and complexes for overall health, skin, and hair. This initial phase also drew upon insights from thousands of users of a previous supplement line, launched in 2002.
We focused on adaptogens, which help the body manage stress and maintain balance, and explored nutrient combinations for synergistic benefits to optimise scalp health and hair growth. By 2019, our research had progressed enough to initiate studies with the help of a multidisciplinary team of experts.
A large-scale study was planned for 2020 with approximately 90 participants divided into three groups: supplements alone, supplements with shampoo, and supplements with shampoo and Extract. However, the COVID-19 pandemic temporarily halted our progress.
In early 2022, we resumed development with a renewed focus on skin, gut health, and vegan-friendly ingredients.
Clinical Trials
User trials are a critical part of our testing process. Performed either in-clinic or through external collaboration with third-party facilities, each trial is designed to assess performance and user experience, with a diverse population encompassing various age groups, genders, hair types, and geographic regions, ensuring our hair care solutions are backed by real-world results.
Agreed their hair felt
healthier*
Agreed they felt an
improvement in their mood*
Agreed their hair felt thicker
and was growing faster.*
Felt an improvement in their
general well-being*
All Hårklinikken Formulas Are:
Hair Gain Extract Ingredients
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Packed with potent antioxidants from tannins, glycosides and other constituents, burdock root can positively stimulate the scalp, as well as soothe and moisturise it. An effective cleanser, clarifier, and toner, it can also aid in dissipating oils and restoring more balanced sebum levels.
A stable and healthy scalp microenvironment will be less prone to experiencing inflammation, which may lead to hair loss.
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With some of the largest plant-sourced content of omega-6 and omega-9 fatty acids, marigold (calendula) extract is not only nourishing and soothing, but it can also add lustre to dull and rough hair cuticles. It’s rich in carotenoids like lutein, zeaxanthin, and flavonoids and contains vitamins A, C, and E. These components help promote a healthy scalp environment, enhance hair's natural color and shine, protect hair follicles from oxidative stress, and reduce the appearance of scalp redness.
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Our distinctive milk-derived complex has been refined over three decades of innovation, showcasing Hårklinikken’s dedication to creating cutting-edge hair care solutions. This complex can activate other ingredients, balance the scalp microbiome, and serve as a delivery mechanism simultaneously. Rich in whey protein and other nutrients, these constituents nourish and fuel the hair follicles, creating better conditions for them to produce stronger, thicker-looking strands.
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Our proprietary apple extract contains antioxidants including polyphenols and procyanidins. These compounds help nourish hair follicles and strengthen hair at the roots to support a healthy hair growth cycle environment for optimal hair conditions.
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Contains natural compounds, including santalol, which has clarifying properties helping to clear the scalp and follicles of buildup from excess sebum, dead skin cells, product, pollutants and more.Sandalwood is also rich in antioxidants, protecting hair follicles from damage caused by free radicals, leading to healthier and stronger hair over time.
Our unique extract helps optimise conditions for hair growth by stimulating and nourishing follicles for a healthier scalp, and creating the appearance of thicker and fuller hair.
‘They work in symphony. I figure out how they speak to one
another, connect, and how one activates the other, making the
other one more potent.’
LARS SKJØTH
HÅRKLINIKKEN FOUNDER & LEAD RESEARCHER