Effect of Hair Oils and Fatty Acids on the Growth of Dermatophytes and Their In Vitro Penetration of Human Scalp Hair

The study examined the impact of different concentrations of commonly used hair oils and fatty acids on the growth of dermatophytes, a type of fungus that can infect the skin, hair, and nails. The research found that mustard oil and unsaturated fatty acids were effective in completely suppressing the growth of dermatophytes at concentrations of 1% and higher. Additionally, the same mustard oil and all unsaturated fatty acids were successful in preventing these fungi from penetrating human scalp hair, as tested by Lu's or Ajello's techniques. This suggests that certain hair oils and fatty acids may have antifungal properties that could be beneficial in preventing fungal infections of the scalp.