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Patrick AlesInventor of the hair dryer
Date of Birth: 01.01.1931
Country:  France |
Content:
- Patrick Alès: The Inventor of Blow-Drying
- The Invention of Blow-Drying
- Success as a Parisian Hairdresser
- Creation of the Phyto Brand
- Expansion and Collaboration
- Purchase of Laboratoire Ducastel and Ales Groupe
- Legacy and Impact
Patrick Alès: The Inventor of Blow-Drying
Early Life and BackgroundPatrick Alès, born Jesús González in Santander, Spain in 1930, was forced to flee to France during the Spanish Civil War. His early career in the fashion industry began as a courier in a hair salon.
The Invention of Blow-Drying
In 1964, Alès revolutionized the world of hair care by inventing the technique of blow-drying, which involved shaping hair while drying it with a blow dryer. This breakthrough would forever change the way hairstylists styled hair.
Success as a Parisian Hairdresser
In 1965, Alès opened his own salon on Avenue Franklin Roosevelt in Paris, becoming one of the most successful hairdressers in the city. He counted iconic actresses such as Catherine Deneuve, Elizabeth Taylor, and Brigitte Bardot among his clients.
Creation of the Phyto Brand
Inspired by the beauty of his clients, Alès wanted to prolong and enhance their natural radiance. In 1969, he founded Laboratoire Phytosolba to produce plant-based hair and scalp care products. The Phyto brand was born, based on the science of plants and their effects on the human body.
Expansion and Collaboration
In 1978, L'Oréal acquired a 44% stake in Alès' company, providing him with the capital to expand his operations. In 1979, he acquired Lierac, and in 1989, the Alès family bought back L'Oréal's stake.
Purchase of Laboratoire Ducastel and Ales Groupe
In 1997, Alès acquired Laboratoire Ducastel, specializing in technical hair care products. This acquisition allowed the company to launch new product lines, including Kedra Phyto and Subtil, exclusively for professional hairdressers. In 1998, the company entered the perfume industry with the purchase of Caron. The following year, the company changed its name to Ales Groupe.
Legacy and Impact
Patric Alès' invention of blow-drying and his unwavering focus on plant-based hair care revolutionized the beauty industry. He worked with countless celebrities, including Catherine Deneuve and Jacqueline Kennedy, and his products continue to be used by hairdressers and individuals worldwide.
Patrick Alès passed away on May 21, 2019, at the age of 88, leaving behind a legacy of innovation and excellence.
