Direct Observation of Hair Components Involved in Formation of Permanent Waves

Researchers extracted hair components to observe which were most involved in forming permanent waves using thioglycolic acid. They found that microfibrils were crucial for shaping permanent waves, playing a more significant role than the cuticle and matrix. Additionally, treating damaged hair with hydrolyzed keratin improved both the efficiency of permanent waving and the condition of the hair. The study suggested that hydrolyzed keratin enhances permanent wave formation by maintaining the shape-forming ability of primary bonds and resistance to gravity during secondary bond formation.