Protection and Restoration of Damaged Hair via a Polyphenol Complex by Promoting Mechanical Strength, Antistatic, and Ultraviolet Protection Properties

The study developed a hair-coating polyphenol complex (PPC) that demonstrated UV protection, antistatic properties, and the ability to enhance the mechanical strength of damaged hair. The PPC was prepared with different ratios of tannic acid (TA), gallic acid (GA), and caffeic acid (CA). The most effective ratio, PPC1 (TA:GA:CA, 100:20:0.5), increased the self-recovery of damaged hair by protecting the cuticle and preventing light from passing through the hair during UV exposure. It also improved the antistatic performance of the hair and increased its durability and elasticity when used in a shampoo. Furthermore, the PPC1-containing shampoo prevented damage by scavenging excess reactive oxygen species in the hair. The study suggests that the natural PPC offers new insights into hair treatment and restoration technology.