Quantifying Polymer Deposition on Hair Fibers by Microfluorometry
July 2019
in “
Microscopy Today
”
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Studysummary This source highlights the utility of cationic polymers in haircare products for protecting against hair damage from chemical treatments and grooming, and describes how microfluorometry can measure polymer deposition and penetration on hair fibers. Our plain-language summary of this paper — not a Tressless recommendation.
The study demonstrated that microfluorometry is an effective method for measuring polymer deposition on hair fibers, with higher polymer concentrations resulting in greater fluorescent intensity. Twenty hair fibers were tested for each polymer concentration (0.1%, 0.01%, and 0.001%) and compared to a control group. The findings indicated not only surface deposition but also some penetration of the polymer into the hair cuticle, and diffusion experiments showed that polymers could reach the hair's core within 1.5 hours. This technique offers a valuable tool for the cosmetic industry to assess product efficacy and hair health.
