Solubility of Structurally Complicated Materials: Hair
January 2009
in “
The scientific world journal/TheScientificWorldjournal
”
New to Keratin? There is a guide in the encyclopedia. Read the guide → Studysummary This article reviews methods for dissolving hair proteins and describes how solvents and molecules with hydrophobic groups interact with hair; it presents no new research findings.
Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer
The study discussed the solubility of hair, which is composed of proteins, lipids, water, and trace elements. Hair proteins, primarily keratin, are organized into filaments and are notably difficult to digest or solubilize. Common methods for dissolving hair include acidic, alkaline, and enzymatic hydrolysis. Effective solvents for hair typically have small molecular sizes and hydrophobic groups, which can break disulfide bonds between cystine molecules and hydrate the hair shaft, transforming it into a jelly-like mass.
