TLDR Hair lipids do not protect against humidity.
The study concluded that the discrete nanoscale distribution of hair lipids did not provide effective humidity resistance. Despite the presence of lipids in various hair compartments, their removal did not affect water vapor permeability or liquid water uptake kinetics, indicating that hair lipids did not significantly enhance the hair's ability to resist humidity. Advanced techniques like FTIR and AFM-IR were used to analyze lipid distribution, revealing that lipids were more concentrated in the medulla and cuticle than in the cortex. The findings suggested that the arrangement and presence of lipids alone were insufficient to protect hair from humidity-induced damage, highlighting the need for additional protective measures in hair care formulations.
21 citations,
March 2017 in “Skin research and technology” Removing external lipids from hair reduces moisture and increases strength, while removing internal lipids decreases water permeability.
15 citations,
May 2010 in “International Journal of Cosmetic Science” The cell membrane complex in mammalian hair has three distinct types with different structures and chemical properties.
254 citations,
January 2007 in “Chemical Society Reviews” 31 citations,
December 2002 in “Biochimica et biophysica acta. G, General subjects/Biochimica et biophysica acta. General subjects (Online)” The research found two types of calcium in human hair, one that varies among individuals and another that is consistent across people.
21 citations,
March 2017 in “Skin research and technology” Removing external lipids from hair reduces moisture and increases strength, while removing internal lipids decreases water permeability.
7 citations,
March 2019 in “Journal of cosmetic dermatology” African hair has the most lipids, while Caucasian hair is more hydrated and stronger.
35 citations,
November 2021 in “Journal of nanobiotechnology” Thymol-loaded nanoparticles are a promising, natural treatment for acne that avoids antibiotics and preserves healthy skin bacteria.
Plant-based compounds can improve wound dressings and skin medication delivery.
12 citations,
February 2019 in “Skin research and technology” White hair has less lipid content and absorbs water differently than brown hair.