Jheri Redding
Jheri Redding | |
|---|---|
| Born | Robert William Redding Template:Birth date |
| Died | March 15, 1998 (aged 91) |
| Occupation(s) | Hairdresser, chemist, entrepreneur, businessman |
| Known for | Inventor of the Jheri curl, pioneer of contemporary hair conditioner |
Jheri Redding (originally named Robert William Redding and born on March 2, 1907 – passing on March 15, 1998) was an American innovator in haircare, combining roles as a hairdresser, chemist, entrepreneur, and businessman. He is widely recognized for inventing the Jheri curl and is acknowledged as the pioneer of contemporary hair conditioner. Redding was instrumental in introducing "pH balanced" shampoos, integrating vitamins and minerals into hair products, and developing the perm formula known as the Jheri curl, along with several other groundbreaking advancements. He established a global beauty brand under his own name and played a key role in founding three additional leading hair care enterprises.
Personal history
In Chicago, Redding merged his expertise in chemistry with his hairstyling background to create enhanced shampoos, rinses, and styling formulations. Through experimentation with common household items such as mayonnaise and vinegar, he formulated treatments and styling creams that eventually became the foundation of Jheri Redding Products.
Following World War II, he moved to Los Angeles where he launched Jheri Redding Products Company in 1956, introducing a cream rinse he personally developed. Subsequently, he co-established Redken in 1960, Jhirmack in 1968, and Nexxus in 1979—a brand whose name stands for "Nature and Earth United With Science." Nexxus revolutionized the industry by adopting direct-to-consumer advertising campaigns designed to drive clientele toward salons; this marketing approach was crafted by company president Stephen Redding. Under Jheri Redding’s guidance and with support from his management team—including family members—these companies pioneered national television advertising on programs like Johnny Carson and the Today Show, blending brand promotion with cooperative local salon marketing initiatives.
This strategy significantly increased both salon service patronage and retail product sales, contributing to a revitalization of the beauty salon sector. Additionally, Nexxus innovated distribution by employing a select group of independent distributors rather than relying on direct corporate sales. At prominent professional trade exhibitions held in Chicago and Las Vegas, hundreds of hairstylists participated in educational sessions led personally by Jheri Redding.
Thoroughbred racing
Jheri Redding owned and competed with Thoroughbred racehorses under the nom de course Jhayare Stables. His most distinguished horse was Itsallgreektome, who earned the title of 1990 American Champion Male Turf Horse.
Marriages and children
Redding entered into four marriages: Marjorie Silverman Miller, Selma, Irene J. (divorced in 1979), and Cheryl Shirleen Lugo (also divorced).
He fathered three biological children and adopted one:
- Robert William (Bill) Redding (born 1941), married to Linda Anne; they have two sons: Robert William Jherimiah Redding (born 1963) and Thomas James Redding (born 1970).
- Stephen J. Redding, married to Angie Demourkas with three children: Elisa, Stephanie, and Jheri; previously married to Gabriella Redding, with two children: Illiana Rose and Aliyah James. All offspring were born in Santa Barbara.
- Robert Dean Redding (deceased in 1992), father to Bryce Dean Redding (born 1985).
- Sean Redding, married to Natalie Moton; they have five children and are featured on the reality television series "Shear Madness" broadcast on Nat Geo Wild.
Jheri Redding’s family includes twelve grandchildren and at least six great-grandchildren.
Printed works
Recognized as a leading figure in the industry, Redding authored The Anatomy of a Permanent Wave and established the Hollywood Design Council, further cementing his role as a pioneer in cosmetic innovation.
Awards and honors
In 1990, Redding was honored with induction into the National Cosmetology Foundation Hall of Fame, followed by his inclusion in the North American Hairstyling Award Hall of Leaders in 1997.