Effects of Conditioners on Surface Hardness of Hair Fibers: An Investigation Using Atomic Force Microscopy

The study conducted in 2004 investigated the effects of conditioners on the surface hardness of hair fibers using atomic force microscopy. The research focused on cationic polymeric conditioners, specifically Polyquaternium-10 (PQ-10), and their impact on the hair fiber's surface cuticle cells. The study found that the conditioner softened the scale face (the flat part of the hair cuticle) and hardened the scale edges. This conclusion was reached after multiple applications of the conditioner on a larger number of hair fibers, which allowed for a statistical outcome. The study concluded that the scale face of hair fibers is indeed softened by polymeric conditioners such as PQ-10. This research could help in the development of conditioners with suitable moisturizing and softening effects on hair.