Alternative Protocol for Hair Damage Assessment and Comparison of Hair Care Treatments

The study assessed hair damage and the effectiveness of hair care treatments using a "weakest link" model, analyzing hair strands from 30 female Indian subjects. It found that hair breakage correlated with sections having the minimum mean diameter and maximum diameter change. Coconut oil users exhibited significantly less weakest link progression, with 65% less variability in hair strand diameter compared to non-oil users. The study introduced the "Hair Protection Factor" (HPF) to quantify hair damage control, with higher HPF indicating better protection. Repeated washing with sodium lauryl ether sulfate (SLES) increased hair damage, while pre-wash crème oil applications helped maintain hair strength. The study concluded that coconut oil was effective in reducing hair breakage by forming a protective barrier and replenishing subsurface microcavities.