Green Chemistry Method for Hair Strengthening and Setting Using Visible Light-Mediated Protein Crosslinking

June 2022 in “ Journal of cleaner production ”

Seoyoung Kim, Jae Hak Kim, Yeyoung Kang, Jae Won Yoo, Joonho Choi, Hyun Jong Lee

visible light-mediated protein crosslinking riboflavin phosphate citric acid polyols thioglycolic acid keratin crosslinking tensile stress Young's modulus RFP CA TGA

Studysummary This study found that a new eco-friendly hair crosslinking method using visible light and non-toxic chemicals caused less damage and improved mechanical properties compared to traditional thioglycolic acid treatment.

Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer

Researchers developed an eco-friendly, one-step method for hair strengthening and setting using visible light-mediated protein crosslinking. This method utilizes riboflavin phosphate (RFP), citric acid (CA), and polyols, avoiding harmful substances like thioglycolic acid (TGA). When exposed to blue light, RFP generates singlet oxygen, which induces keratin crosslinking in hair. Compared to traditional TGA treatments, this new method causes less damage to hair and improves its mechanical properties, with tensile stress and Young's modulus values increasing by 1.3 and 2.2 times, respectively. This innovative approach offers a safer and more environmentally friendly alternative for hair care products.

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