Investigating the Relationship Between the Hair Fiber Proteome and Hair Quality

The study investigated the genetic control of hair quality by analyzing hair composition in 292 female Caucasian subjects. High-quality hair was associated with a specific 66 kDa protein and higher levels of serine and threonine, suggesting genetic influence. Colorant usage led to the loss of low molecular weight proteins (14–29 kDa), especially in low-quality hair. High-quality hair showed lower cysteic acid levels and higher tensile elastic modulus (4.65 GPa) compared to lower quality hair (4.3 GPa), indicating better resistance to damage and stronger mechanical properties. The findings suggested that hair quality is genetically determined and linked to its composition and mechanical properties, which could inform future hair care product development and diagnostic tools.