Redken was founded in 1960 by hairdresser/chemist Jheri Redding and actress/model Paula Kent, thus the name, "Red-ken."

Kent was extra sensitive to many of the products used by hairdressers and make-up artists of the day, when frequent chemical services and style changes were routine for women of her profession. She and Redding went in together and began Redken Laboratories, based in Southern California, developing three products and giving an intensive training program for hairdressers about the chemistry of hair and skin, enabling them to better serve their clients.

Redken pioneered the "Scientific Approach to Beauty," and revolutionized the professional salon business by introducing the concept of protein reconditioning and developing new protein based products, which they patented.

The formulas developed were based on three principles: 1) Protein technology (since hair is composed primarily of proteins); 2) An acidic pH of 4.5 to 5.5, complementing the natural pH of the hair and skin; 3) Products recommended exclusively by licensed cosmetologists in professional salons.

Because hair can absorb topically applied proteins, salons were able to condition hair internally and for the long-term rather than solely camouflage damage.

Redken became a global leader in professional hair care products and services. Its products are available in professional beauty salons in over 50 countries. The company holds over 60 global patents on products and ingredients.