Scalp Ozone Therapy: Is the Hair Fiber Safe from Oxidative Damage?

Abstract

Research on ozone has revealed its potential applicability, including its use as an environmentally friendly alternative to personal care products (PCPs). However, there is limited research on the safety of using ozone gas on hair strands. This study aimed to investigate potential physicochemical changes in hair exposed to ozone gas. Various analytical techniques were employed, including scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) with attenuated total reflection (ATR), grazing incidence X-ray diffraction (GIXRD), and Tensile Strength Tests. The SEM revealed alterations in the hair fiber’s appearance. FTIR-ATR analysis demonstrated degradation of characteristic peaks in the infrared spectrum, particularly at peaks 2920, 2851, 1633, 1235, 1075, and 1043 cm−1, associated with the cuticle and the cell membrane complex (CMC). The GIXRD analysis suggested a potential phase change between α-helix and β-sheet, which may be linked to the observed changes in the mechanical resistance assay, presenting different data from those described in the literature for oxidative damage in hair fiber. The results obtained indicated that ozone gas applied on human hair showed oxidative action. Therefore, additional studies are required before discussing the usa of ozone therapy on human hair scalp area.