Researchers report measurable gains in gloss, manageability and temporary thickness using a botanical blend tested over three wash cycles.
By yourNEWS Media Newsroom
A newly studied plant-based formulation combining extracts from the tara shrub and compounds derived from red seaweed has been shown to significantly enhance hair shine and manageability under controlled laboratory conditions.
Scientists at the University of São Paulo developed the blend and evaluated its performance on untreated brown hair samples. Their findings, published in ACS Omega, indicate that hair treated with the botanical mixture reflected 29% more light than untreated strands. The treated fibers also required 21% less force to comb and appeared 16% thicker on a temporary basis.
Hair shine is influenced by surface structure. When the outer cuticle layer lies flat and uniform, light reflects evenly, producing a glossy appearance. When cuticles are lifted or disrupted — often as a result of friction, ultraviolet exposure, pollution or chemical stress — light scatters irregularly, leading to a dull look. Because hair is composed of non-living keratin fibers once it emerges from the scalp, structural damage cannot self-repair.
According to the researchers, the interaction between tara extract, sourced from a South American shrub native to Peru and Bolivia, and red algae compounds creates a thin, breathable film around each strand. This coating smooths and aligns the cuticle layers, improving surface uniformity and increasing light reflectivity.
To test the formulation, the team incorporated 1% of the plant blend into shampoo, conditioner and leave-in products. Hair bundles were washed three times using the enhanced formulas. High-resolution imaging revealed that treated strands appeared flatter and more uniformly arranged compared to untreated samples.
In addition to improved shine, the coated fibers demonstrated increased elasticity and a temporary rise in diameter, contributing to a thicker appearance. Researchers noted a slight reduction in resistance to snapping, which they suggested may correspond to decreased mechanical stress during styling.
Friction testing showed measurable differences in combing force. Treated hair required 21% less force to detangle, indicating reduced surface friction. Lower friction may translate to less mechanical damage during routine grooming. Although the study did not directly evaluate protection against environmental stressors, the barrier-like properties of the coating suggest it may limit the adherence or penetration of pollutants.
The study included several limitations. Testing was conducted exclusively on virgin brown hair; results may differ for color-treated, chemically processed, curly or severely damaged hair types. The experimental period covered only three wash cycles, leaving long-term durability unexamined. Additionally, pollution and ultraviolet shielding were not directly measured.
Despite those constraints, researchers reported that the plant-derived ingredients remained stable for at least one month during formulation testing. Both tara and red algae are renewable resources, which could support sustainable production if commercial development proceeds.
According to BrightU.AI’s Enoch, the formulation represents a promising alternative to synthetic hair treatments, citing its reliance on botanical compounds rather than chemical-based shine enhancers. He added that continued research and transparency will be important as the technology advances.
The findings suggest that plant-derived surface coatings may offer a measurable method of improving gloss, combability and appearance without relying on conventional synthetic additives. Further research will determine how the formulation performs across diverse hair types and extended usage conditions.
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Source: Natural News
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