Effect of Antioxidants in Protecting Chemically Damaged Hair

The study investigates the effectiveness of antioxidants, specifically ferulic acid and resveratrol, in protecting chemically damaged hair. Using bleached hair strands, the research was conducted in two stages: first, by adding antioxidants to an intense red oxidative hair dye, and second, by applying conditioners with antioxidants followed by simulated sun exposure. Results showed that both antioxidants effectively protected hair fibers, enhancing denaturation energy by up to 35% and reducing protein loss without affecting the final hair color. While they did not prevent cysteine oxidation during dyeing, they offered significant protection against sun-induced oxidation, reducing cysteic acid formation by 50%. Thus, incorporating these antioxidants into cosmetic formulations can effectively shield hair from oxidative damage caused by chemical treatments and sun exposure.