Characterization of Hair Lipid and Protein Dynamics Using EPR Spectroscopy and Treatment Effects

December 2023 in “ Journal of molecular structure ”

E. Borges, Diógenes de Souza Neto, Antônio Alonso

TLDR Hair treatments and dehydration affect hair's lipid and protein behavior, influencing its flexibility and appearance.

The study utilized spin label EPR spectroscopy to analyze the lipid and protein dynamics in hair membranes, particularly in the cuticle region. It was found that the fluidity of hair membranes is generally lower than that of biological cell membranes. Treatments with ionic detergents (SDS, CTAC, HPS) and the nonionic surfactant Tween 80 significantly increased cuticle membrane fluidity, while propylene glycol at 50% caused membrane rigidity and extracted lipid spin labels. These findings highlight the potential of EPR spectroscopy in evaluating the effects of various chemical treatments on hair, which could benefit industries producing haircare products.

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