A Photo-Crosslinked Casein-Tannic Acid System for Enhanced Hair Protection: A Green Chemistry Approach

This study introduces an environmentally friendly hair protection method using a photo-crosslinked casein-tannic acid system, activated by riboflavin phosphate and blue light. The treatment significantly enhances hair tensile strength by approximately 21% compared to untreated hair, while maintaining natural elasticity. The coating process involves solubilizing casein in NaOH, incorporating tannic acid, and adding riboflavin phosphate as a photoinitiator, resulting in a stable protective layer. Rheological analysis, FTIR spectroscopy, and SEM analysis confirm successful network formation and integration with the hair surface. This green chemistry approach offers a sustainable alternative to conventional hair treatments, utilizing natural, food-grade components and mild processing conditions to effectively protect hair from daily damage.