ToF-SIMS Characterization of the Lipid Layer on the Hair Surface: Effect of the 18-MEA Lipid Layer on Surface Hydrophobicity

    January 2011 in “ Surface and interface analysis ”
    Masayuki Okamoto, Noriyuki Tanji, Taichi Habe, Shigeto Inoue, Shinichi Tokunaga, Hiroto Tanamachi
    TLDR 18-MEA is essential for hair's water resistance, and a conditioner with 18-MEA and SPDA can restore it.
    This study examined the impact of 18-MEA damage on hair surface hydrophobicity and the effectiveness of replenishing this lipid layer using ToF-SIMS. It was found that 18-MEA levels significantly decreased in Japanese women who underwent coloring treatments, especially those treated more than twice a year. Even untreated hair showed over 80% loss of 18-MEA at 40 cm from the root. The study demonstrated that 18-MEA is crucial for maintaining surface hydrophobicity. A conditioner treatment combining 18-MEA with Stearoxypropyldimethylamine (SPDA) was effective in restoring and maintaining hydrophobicity and reducing friction on damaged hair surfaces.
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