Hair structure, damage and interaction with dyes

Dr R.J.W. Hefford – Consultant, Independent Cosmetic Advice Ltd, UK

This is the second in a series of articles which gives an introduction into the science and technology of cosmetic products intended to colour the hair. This part deals with the basic structure of hair, how it is damaged and some basic aspects of how hair interacts with the molecules that can colour the hair. The first article in the series, reviewing the history of hair colouring, was published in the July 2008 edition of Personal Care Asia Pacific.