Evaluation of the synergetic impact of UV irradiation on cosmetically treated hair

• Main Author: Ma, Luyao
• Other Authors: Ng Kee Woei
• Format: Final Year Project
• Language: English
• Published: Nanyang Technological University 2024
• Subjects: Engineering
• Online Access: https://hdl.handle.net/10356/176004
• Institution: Nanyang Technological University

In society, hair serves as more than just a biological feature. It is regarded as an essential tool for self-expression and holds cultural significance in many social circles. The unique structure and diverse composition make hair a versatile material, and many common hair treatments make use of this unique property to change its texture or colour. Photodegradation of hair is an unavoidable consequence when exposed to UV in the atmosphere in daily life. Extensive research has explored the impact of UV radiation on different hair types, recognizing its role in altering hair morphology. However, there remains a significant gap in understanding the impact of UV on cosmetically treated hair and the extent of this impact on photodegradation. Therefore, this study explored the impact of cosmetic treatments like thermal treatment, chemical treatment, and bleaching alone on hair morphology using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Further, to evaluate the impact of UV on cosmetically treated hair morphology, cosmetically treated hairs were exposed to UV light for different durations. The results revealed that processes like dyeing and bleaching confer some level of photoprotection against long-term UV exposure, while thermal treatments exacerbate the deleterious effects of UV irradiation. This indicates the complex interplay between cosmetic treatments and UV exposure on hair health. This study provides valuable insights into the synergistic effect of both hair cosmetic treatment and UV light. Further research is needed to fully understand the extent and mechanisms of UV-induced protein damage, which is crucial for developing effective strategies to protect and maintain hair health under sun exposure and cosmetic treatments