TLDR A new method strengthens hair without using harmful chemicals.
Researchers Joonho Choi, Hyun Jong Lee, and colleagues have developed a clean and non-toxic method for keratin crosslinking in hair, as published in ACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering. This new approach avoids the use of toxic chemicals like thioglycolic acid, which can damage hair, by forming ester and thioester linkages using citric acid (CA) and polyols. The study found that a combination of 3% CA, 5% isopropyl alcohol (IPD), and 3% sorbitol optimally increased hair's tensile stress and Young’s modulus by 41% and 44%, respectively. This method offers a promising alternative to traditional hair crosslinking technologies, enhancing hair strength without environmental or health risks.
3 citations
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June 2023 in “ACS sustainable chemistry & engineering” The study found a green method for strengthening hair works on all hair colors and is eco-friendly.
4 citations
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June 2022 in “Journal of cleaner production” New eco-friendly method strengthens and sets hair using light and causes less damage.
4 citations
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June 2022 in “Journal of cleaner production” New eco-friendly method strengthens and sets hair using light and causes less damage.
August 2021 in “Han'gug miyong haghoeji/Journal of the Korean society of cosmetology” Using natural polyphenol cross-linkers like tannic acid and green tea extract in perm treatments improves curling and protects hair.
96 citations
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September 2021 in “International Journal of Molecular Sciences” Chitosan, a natural substance, can be used to create tiny particles that effectively deliver various types of drugs, but more work is needed to improve stability and control of drug release.
February 2025 in “International Journal of Cosmetic Science” A new amino acid derivative, ATS, improves hair texture and moisture, making it easier to straighten curly hair.
6 citations
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October 2016 Understanding how keratin structures in hair are arranged and interact is key for creating methods to extract and purify them.
