questions?

What makes Function of Beauty different?

Historically, beauty companies have told you what you need for your hair. We know that you know your hair better than anyone else does.

Our founding team—world-class MIT engineers and data scientists—spent years building our own algorithm and machines, that pull from hundreds of ingredients to potentially create billions of completely unique shampoo and conditioner combinations.

Tell us what you want and need for your hair, and we’ll individually formulate and fill a product that is as unique as you!

Read more about what makes us different here.

Will the colors of the products affect or tint my hair color?

Absolutely not! We use FDA-approved dyes at levels that are unable to affect natural or dyed hair color.

The only exception is if you choose toning/reduce brassiness as a hair goal, you will receive a purple shampoo which is intended to deposit small amounts of dye to counteract brassiness in highlights and bleached hair.

Do you offer a completely fragrance-free option?

Yes, we do! Since there is no fragrance added, all you will smell are the natural scents of the components of your shampoo and conditioner.

It’s a pretty neutral scent, but some people may not enjoy it. If you’re looking for an all-natural fragrance, we recommend All (You)calyptus, which is made from a blend of essential oils.

Do you test your products on animals?

Never! Our products are cruelty-free—we will never test on animals. They are also 100% vegan, and do not contain any ingredients made or derived from animals. Function of Beauty is a part of PETA's Beauty Without Bunnies program, which certifies that products are both cruelty-free and vegan!

Do your products contain parabens and sulfates?

Our products are paraben-free, as well as sulfate-free (including SLS/SLES). If you have any further questions about specific ingredients, you can find more information here.

Do your products contain silicones?

Yes, our products do contain silicones. We believe in only using ingredients that we feel comfortable using ourselves. This means using ingredients that are safe and effective, and ideally, natural. In our opinion, silicones are one of the most effective ingredients in haircare—there is nothing better at protecting hair against porosity and resulting damage, and no natural ingredients are able to replicate this effect (or we’d use them!). We predominantly use water-soluble silicones because they don’t cause product build-up and won’t weigh down your hair.

Are your products safe for keratin-treated hair?

Yes, our products are safe for keratin-treated hair! Since they are sulfate-free, they won’t be as harsh as traditional shampoos can be.

Many of our customers with keratin-treated hair add Strengthen as a hair goal. The vegetable proteins in that hair blend can help your keratin-treatment last longer and perform optimally.

Are your products gluten-free?

Yes, our products are completely gluten-free!

Do your products contain tree nuts?

Some of our hair goals do contain tree nut extracts. They are:

Hair goal	Nut extract ingredient
Replenish hair	almond, chestnut
Volumize	almond
Shine	almond
Fix split ends	almond

If you were interested in selecting any of these hair goals, please feel free to reach out to our Happy Hair Specialists at hello@functionofbeauty.com and we'd be happy to help you select alternate goals!

Are your products safe for use during pregnancy?

Congratulations!

Our products are safe for use during pregnancy, though if you have any specific concerns it's always best to check with your physician.

Are your products safe for use on children?

We specifically formulate our products to be as safe and gentle as possible, but children may be more sensitive to certain ingredients than adults are or may have unknown allergies. We recommend consulting a physician prior to use.

What if I’m allergic to (xyz)..?

If there are certain ingredients that you are allergic to, or wary of, you can feel free to reach out to us at hello@functionofbeauty.com.

What is your stance on controversial ingredients?

Your safety and well-being are always our top priority. Our formulations avoid potentially harmful or toxic ingredients such as sulfates (including SLS & SLES), parabens, phthalates, triclosan, mineral oils, formaldehyde, GMOs, & many others (please see below for a more detailed list). We do not formulate with ingredients banned in the EU.

Acetates	Acrylic Acid
Aluminum	Animal Fats, Oils & Musks
Benzalkonium Chloride	Boric Acid
Butylated Hydroxytoluene	Coal Tar
Diazolidinyl Urea	Diethanolamine (DEA)
Hydroquinone	Hydroxyethyl Acrylate
Imidazolidinyl Urea	Lanolin
Methanol	Methylmethacrylate
Mineral Oil	Nonoxynol
Oxybenzone	Paraffins
Petroleum	Phenol
Propyl Acetate	Retinyl Palmitate and Retinol
Sulfates	Talc
Toluene	Triclosan
Triphenyl Phosphate	P-Phenylenediamine

How much does the product cost?

(All prices are charged in US Dollars for the US and Canada, British Pounds in Great Britain, and Australian Dollars in Australia)

8oz. (236 mL) shampoo + conditioner $36/£29/A$59

16 oz. (473mL) shampoo + conditioner $49/£39/A$79

Mixed sets (8oz. (236 mL)+16oz. (473 mL)) $43/£34/A$69

One 16 oz. (473 mL) bottle (of shampoo or conditioner) $36/£29/A$59

Do all orders come with pumps?

All orders come with pumps! They are at the bottom of the box, under your shampoo and conditioner. If you've ordered a travel set, your pumps will be deconstructed and placed in the travel bags.

What is the size of the bottles?

The 8 oz./236 mL bottles are approximately 5.5” high and have a 2” diameter.
The 16 oz./473 mL bottles are approximately 6.5” high and have a 2.75” diameter.

Why isn't my bottle filled all the way to the top?

The bottles provide an extra ounce of room at the top to accommodate for pressure and room to insert the pumps. They are filled by weight and will contain 8 oz. (236 mL) or 16 oz. (473 mL) of product.

How long will a set last?

It’s dependent on your hair length, how frequently you wash your hair, scalp moisture level, and many other details. On average though, if you’re washing daily, an 8 oz. (236 mL) set should last up to 60 days and a 16 oz. (473 mL) set up to 120 days.

What is the shelf-life of my formula?

Under normal use conditions, your shampoo and conditioner should be safe to use for at least 2 years.

Do Function of Beauty products work for all ethnicities?

We cater to all textures of hair, from straight to wavy, to curly and coily! We always formulate without sulfates and parabens and use a multitude of natural and effective ingredients to ensure that customers of all ethnicities and hair types create a formula that fits their unique hair needs!

What are your bottles made of?

They are made of 100% recyclable, PETE-grade plastic.

Are the bottles colored?

The bottles are transparent, and the actual product is colored!

Why do the colors of my formula look different from someone else’s?

Because, like you, your formula is 100% original. The colors of each set can change, based on your hair profile and the hair goals you select. Given the natural ingredients that we used can have slight variations in color, the finished products will also have slight variations in color.

Do you offer samples?

We are unable to offer samples, since every bottle is made specifically for each customer. The smallest size of a personalized formula that we can produce is 8 oz.

Where are Function of Beauty products made?

We’ve invested millions in our state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities, which allows us to have oversight through every step of the process. Every single set is manufactured and made in the USA.

How can I adjust my formulation?

If you’ve just placed an order, please reach out to us at hello@functionofbeauty.com as soon as possible with the changes that you would like to make. We can make adjustments to your formulation at any time before our chemists start working on it.

If you are re-ordering, you can adjust your formulation from your account page. Select the "Order History" tab. You'll see all of your past orders and can select the "Re-order" button on whichever formulation you would like to order again. From there you'll be taken to the hair quiz, where you can change the answers to your hair profile, the hair goals and/or the colors and fragrance.

To adjust your formulation for subscriptions, there is an “Edit Formulation” button under the Subscriptions section of your account page.

Can I send back bottles to be re-filled/recycled?

At this time, we don't have a formal recycling program. Through our research, we’ve found that mailing your bottles back to us actually leaves a larger carbon footprint than if you were able to just recycle them at home. We do really appreciate your desire to cut down on waste.

Can I use special characters on my bottles?

We’re not able to print special characters on the bottles at this time.

Can I purchase more than one set at a time?

At this time, we’re unable to create and package multiple sets for the same order. Once you have placed one order, it should be simple to go through and place another, as we securely save your details in your account.

When will my credit card be charged?

Your credit card will be charged immediately upon making an order.

When can I expect my order? (U.S.)

All orders take 5-7 days to be formulated and filled, due to the customization of each formula. International orders take a bit longer due to customs and local carrier delivery processing.

Average delivery estimates from time of order are

US	7-9 days
Australia	18-20 days
Canada	10-12 days
Great Britain	12-14 days

Your order confirmation will include our best estimate of your package's arrival date. Once your order has been filled and shipped, you will receive a notification with a unique tracking link.

How can I re-order my formula?

If you're re-ordering, you can adjust your formulation from your accountpage. Select the "Order History" tab. You'll see all of your past orders and can select the "Re-order" button on whichever formulation you would like to order again. From there you'll be taken to the hair quiz, where you can change the answers to your hair profile, the hair goals and/or the colors and fragrance.

What if I’m not happy with my customized set? What is your return policy?

It rarely happens (less than 1% of all orders), but if you are not completely satisfied our happy hair specialists are on standby!

For new orders: Simply reach out to us at hello@functionofbeauty.com within 30 days of receipt of your first order with the details of your concern and we'll do our best to address your needs! If for some reason we're not able to address your concerns, we can process a full refund within 30 days of delivery of your first order.

For subscription refills: You may edit or cancel your subscription plan any time before your set is billed. Please note that since all formulas are fully customized, we cannot accept cancellations, returns or apply refunds after your order has billed. All cancellations apply to your next scheduled delivery. If you are concerned about making sure your formula is just right, don't hesitate to contact us.

How long do refunds take to process?

Refunds can take 7-10 days to reflect on your original form of payment.

What forms of payment do you accept?

We accept all major credit cards, as well as PayPal.

Are there coupons or sales?

While we do not offer coupons or sales, we do offer free shipping on subscriptions!

How can I cancel my order?

If you need to cancel an order that you just placed, please contact hello@functionofbeauty.com as soon as possible.

Once your order has been filled, we will be unable to cancel or otherwise adjust it. Subscription orders are sent to be filled once you are billed. Due to the customized nature of the product, neither new orders nor subscription orders are able to be modified or canceled once they have been sent to be filled, and do not fall under the Happy Hair Guarantee.

How do I select my hair type?

We define the different categories of hair type as:

Straight	Hair strands tend to not have a bend or a curl.
Wavy	Somewhere between straight and curly. Hair Type 2.
Curly	Definite curl pattern, S-shaped or loopy. Can be prone to frizz. Hair Type 3.
Coily	Sometimes wiry, zig-zag pattern, tighter curls than curly hair. Sometimes known as kinky hair. Hair Type 4.

How do I select my hair structure?

Hair structure doesn’t refer to the volume of hair you have, but the thickness of an individual strand of your hair.

Fine	A single strand is thinner than a sewing thread. If you take a strand of hair between your fingers you don't feel anything.
Medium	A single strand is about the thickness of a sewing thread. If you take a strand of hair between your fingers you can feel the hair.
Coarse	A single strand is thicker than a sewing thread. If you take a strand of hair between your fingers you can feel a strong thick strand.

How do I select my scalp moisture?

This is the level of moisture/oil on your scalp.

Dry	Your scalp might be dry or flaky. You typically wash every 3-4 days.
Normal	Your scalp is about the same a day after you wash it.
Oily	You feel the need to wash your hair daily.

What if I’m not sure what hair goals will best fit my hair?

If you’re not sure what hair goals will best fit your hair, you can contact us at hello@functionofbeauty.com. We’d be happy to walk you through selecting the best goals for your hair.

What are the fragrances like?

Fragrances can definitely be subjective, but we like to think we have something for everyone!

Feeling (F)ineapple	A blend of pineapple and coconut create an uplifting, tropical fragrance (our best seller!)
Nude (P)each	Peach nectar and mandarin; a juicy and effervescent fragrance
(F)lower To The People	An infusion of wild peonies and warm musk; a soulful, soft floral scent
All (You) calyptus	A mix of eucalyptus, lavendar, rosemary, peppermint, and spearmint oils offers a tingly fresh, energizing scent
Fragrance-Free	A great option for those with sensitivities

Limited Edition Fragrance(s)

(Psst)achio

Pistachio, cardamom and chai whipped up into a nutty, confectionary delight

Subscription Only Fragrance(s)

Hibis(Kiss)	Sweet bubblegum and fresh linens; a sweet and youthful scent
Musk-have	Cedar wood and violet provide a sophisticated masculine fragrance
For-(Shore)	Vibrant mandarin and sea salt mingle with coconut to create a scent reminiscent of being sun-kissed and salty-haired at the beach

How do I redeem my e-giftcard?

Redeeming your gift card is as easy as clicking on the link in your e-mail. Once the gift card has been redeemed, the credit transfers to your account. From there you can take the hair quiz and check out using your credits.

How do I order a set with my gift card?

Your gift code can be found on the back of the green card included in your gift box. You can input your gift code by going here. From there you’re able to create an account and take the hair quiz and check out using the credit in your account.

Do you ship worldwide?

At the moment, we ship to the United States (including Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands), Canada, Australia and Great Britain (England, Scotland, and Wales).

How much does shipping cost?

Shipping for single orders costs $5 (USD/AUD) in the US & Canada/Australia, and £5 in Great Britain, though if you order a subscription, shipping is always free!

When will my order ship?

Each customized order takes 5-7 business days from the time the order is placed, to be formulated, filled and processed for shipping.

Why can’t I track my order?

Once your order has left our production facilities, you will receive an email with the tracking information included.

If you are unable to track your order with the provided tracking number, please reach out to us at hello@functionofbeauty.com

How can I change my shipping address?

If you would like to change your shipping address on a new order, please email us at hello@functionofbeauty.com as soon as possible so we can update it for you. For re-orders and subscriptions, you can change your shipping address from the account page.

How do I change my password?

From your account page, click on the "Update Email" link to the right of your current email address. On the new page, you will be able to make changes to your email address, as well as your first name, last name, phone number, and birthday. Don't forget to click "Update" so your changes save!

How do I update my email address?

From your account page, click on the "Update Email" link to the right of your current email address. On the new page, you will be able to make changes to your email address, as well as your first name, last name, phone number, and birthday. Don't forget to click "Update" so your changes save!

Where can I find my referral link?

Your referral link can be found at the bottom of the Referral tab of your account page. There's also an easy form where you can input your friend's name and email address, and send them a personalized message with your referral link included - they'll receive $5 off their first purchase, and you'll receive $5 of credit if they place an order using your link!

How can I change my shipping address?

If you would like to change your shipping address on an order you just placed, please email us at hello@functionofbeauty.com . For re-orders and subscriptions, you can adjust it on your account page.

How does the subscription plan work?

As a Function Plus member you can get ongoing deliveries of your favorite personalized formulas on the delivery schedule of your choice (every month, every 2 months, or whatever you’d like!). It’s easy to make changes to your formula goals, colors, or fragrances at any time within your account, and you also get exclusive perks (think free shipping, access to discontinued colors + fragrances, invitations to help test-drive new products, and more!).

A few days before your subscription order is set to be filled, you will receive an email reminder to adjust your formula, change your delivery date, update your account details (like your address or billing info), and make any other edits to your subscription.

Please note that since all formulas are fully customized, we cannot accept returns or apply refunds after your order has processed. Any adjustments or cancellations made to your subscription after a payment has been made will not change your current subscription order and will instead apply to the following subscription order.

When am I charged for my subscription?

You will be charged for your subscription when we start working on your new order, about 10 days before your order is supposed to ship to you. You will get a reminder email beforehand. Any changes that you would like to make to your subscription should be changed before you are charged for your new order. Adjustments or cancellations made after you are charged will be applied to the following subscription order.

How can I modify my subscription plan?

You can modify your subscription plan from your account page. Under “Subscription” you have the option to edit your formulation, edit the sizes of your bottles and frequency of shipments, adjust your billing information and your shipping address, and you can also choose fun add-ons (aka “boosts”).

Can I turn my single order into a subscription?

Of course! You can upgrade directly from your account page.You will be taken through the hair quiz, where you can make any adjustments necessary. Once you make your payment, you’re officially a Function Plus Member!

How can I cancel my subscription plan?

Under the Subscription section of your account page, there’s an option to “Cancel Subscription”. Please note that since all formulas are fully customized, we cannot accept cancellations, returns or apply refunds after your order has been billed and processed. All cancellations will apply to the following scheduled delivery.

Once you have successfully canceled your subscription, you will receive an email from us confirming that your subscription has been canceled. If you do not receive this email after 24 hours, please reach out to us at hello@functionofbeauty.com so that we can help!

If you are concerned about making sure your formula is just right, please check out our FAQ for some useful tips, and don’t hesitate to contact us.

How much does shipping cost?

Canada - Shipping for single orders costs $5 (USD), though if you order a subscription, shipping is always free!
Great Britain - Shipping for single orders costs £5, though if you order a subscription, shipping is always free!
Australia - Shipping for single orders costs A$5, though if you order a subscription, shipping is always free!

When can I expect my order?

All orders take 5-7 days to be formulated and filled, due to the customization of each formula. International orders take a bit longer due to customs and local carrier delivery processing. Average delivery estimates from time of order are:

US	7-9 days
Australia	18-20 days
Canada	10-12 days
Great Britain	12-14 days

Your order confirmation will include our best estimate of your package's arrival date. Once your order has been filled and shipped, you will receive a notification with a unique tracking link.

Will I have to pay VAT/duties? (Great Britain)

The price at checkout that you are quoted, and pay, has VAT included.

Will I have to pay GST/duties? (Australia)

The price at checkout that you are quoted, and pay, has GST included.

Do you sell wholesale/partner with salons?

We appreciate your interest in bringing Function of Beauty to new customers. However, we currently only sell via our website at this time and do not wholesale or partner with salons.

How can I visit the lab in NYC?

We’re thrilled you’re interested in visiting our lab in NYC! We're not taking appointments at this time but make sure you're on our email list to get updates.

Where can I find information about jobs at Function of Beauty?

We do post jobs periodically, but you can always reach out to jobs@functionofbeauty.com with your resume and relevant information, and we’ll contact you if you’re a fit for anything we have open.