Degradation of Hair Surface: Importance of 18-MEA and Epicuticle

    May 2019 in “ Cosmetics ”
    Shinichi Tokunaga, Hiroto Tanamachi, Kazutaka Ishikawa
    TLDR 18-MEA and cationic surfactants can restore and maintain hair's hydrophobic nature, improving its beauty and feel.
    The study highlighted the critical role of 18-methyleicosanoic acid (18-MEA) in maintaining hair's hydrophobicity and reducing friction, which are essential for hair's sensory properties. It involved hair samples from 97 female volunteers of different ethnicities. The removal of 18-MEA, often due to chemical treatments, led to increased hydrophilicity and friction, negatively impacting hair. However, regenerating the hydrophobic layer using 18-MEA could restore these properties. The study emphasized the importance of 18-MEA in hair care formulations and its role in protecting hair from chemical and environmental damage.
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