Why are we running this test?

Arctic Elixir develops products step by step, because the scalp is a biologically sensitive and highly individual environment. A final product must work not only in theory, but also in formulation and in real-life daily routines.

A pilot test gave a clear direction

A smaller pilot test was carried out earlier, and it revealed consistent, practically meaningful changes especially in:

• scalp sensations and overall “comfort”
• the perceived balance of the scalp
• a sense of hair vitality and “strength” as part of a routine

The pilot alone is not enough for final conclusions, but it provided a strong enough signal to continue development.

Now we are seeking broader user experience (n=55)

At this stage, the goal is to gather a wider sample across different scalp and hair types, routines, and life situations, so we can:

• confirm usability and feel across different users
• identify who the product suits best and at what frequency of use
• better understand when changes are typically noticed (and what kind)
• fine-tune the formulation and instructions before the final version

This is cosmetic product development: we collect observations and improve the product based on the findings.

Finnish active raw materials and a short, controlled production chain

At the core of the serum’s development are active raw materials grown in Finland and gathered from nature, combined with the shortest possible, carefully controlled production chain.

Examples of active raw materials (not INCI):

• Finnish CO₂-extracted ginger
• spruce needles (as an extract/oil)
• CO₂-extracted nettle seed oil
• selected plant oils that support the scalp’s lipid structure and spreadability

CO₂ extraction (supercritical CO₂) is a method where plant material is extracted without traditional solvents. The aim is a controlled extraction process, keeping the raw-material profile as “clean” as possible and ensuring consistency from batch to batch.

Mechanism of action (cosmetic, clear and credible)

The serum is designed for scalp use. The core idea is not “surface finishing”, but supporting the scalp’s functional environment: when the scalp is more balanced and functionally active, normal follicle function has better conditions to perform.

The mechanism can be described through four complementary areas:

1) Local activation: application + massage

Pipette application and a gentle 1–2 minute massage guide the product to the scalp and increase local stimulation. The massage is intended to support scalp sensory receptors and local microcirculation — the routine is an essential part of the whole.

2) Support for the scalp’s lipid balance

An oil-based treatment supports the scalp’s natural lipid structure and can increase the sense of “comfort”, especially when the scalp feels dry, tight, or out of balance.

3) Optimising the follicle environment

The hair follicle is an active “micro-environment” where hair growth and renewal occur in phases. From a cosmetic care perspective, the effect focuses on the scalp and the area around the follicle — i.e., the conditions in which hair may, based on user observations, feel stronger and more vital.

4) Long-term approach: a process, not a quick fix

The scalp and the hair growth cycle do not change overnight. That is why the test is structured in stages: first an active phase, then a steady rhythm to support growth, and finally a maintenance phase.

Test structure and duration (3 phases)

Phase 1 – Boost (activation)

• Duration: 7–8 weeks
• Use: once daily
• Goal: activate the scalp and establish the routine

Phase 2 – Growth (growth support)

• Duration: 4–6 weeks
• Use: every other day (every 2 days)
• Goal: support the follicle environment with a consistent rhythm

Phase 3 – Upkeep (maintenance)

• Duration: 6 weeks
• Use: twice per week
• Goal: maintain the achieved balance and the benefits of the routine

After the test: maintenance often works in a lighter form (e.g., once per week) depending on individual needs.

How to use the serum (public instructions, short)

Part the hair into sections (e.g., parting + sides + nape)

Apply with a pipette directly to the scalp (not to the hair lengths)

Massage gently for 1–2 minutes with fingertips

Leave on — a leave-in product, no rinsing

Tip: consistency matters more than using a large amount.

What do we track during the test?

We collect user observations especially on:

• scalp sensations (comfort, balance, dryness/tightness-related observations)
• spreadability, absorption, and ease of use
• perceived hair vitality and a sense of “strength”
• any observations related to perceived hair density/thickness during the routine

The goal is to understand which factors (frequency of use, starting scalp condition, routines) are linked to the best experiences, and how the product should be instructed in the final version.

Quality and development work

Test results will be used to:

• define the user profile (who the product is at its best for)
• fine-tune the formulation (feel, absorption, spreadability)
• refine usage instructions (dosage, rhythm, maintenance)

Safety and important notes

Cosmetic products may cause individual sensitivity.

Stop use and inform the contact person if you experience:

• clear, persistent irritation or unusual redness
• intense itching, stinging, or rash
• any reaction that clearly worsens with continued use

This is not a medical study, and the product is not intended to treat disease.

Enrollment is closed. Please check back for future studies.