Heat Transfer in Human Hair

The study developed mathematical models to analyze heat transfer in individual hairs and thin tresses during blow drying. It found that heat transfer in a single hair occurred quickly through conduction, while in a hair assembly, both conduction and convection were involved, resulting in slower heat transfer. Heat penetration to the center of a hair assembly took minutes rather than seconds. This model helped understand the potential for hair damage when using high-temperature styling devices like flat irons.