Scanning electron microscopy approach for evaluation of hair dyed with lawsonia inermis powder: In vitro study

During aging, usually graying of the hair occurs as a result of oxidative stress. Driven by social acceptance and self-perception of the exterior appearance, both men and women rely on hair dyeing products, in order to mask the graying hair. At the same time, a frequent use of synthetic products and treatment can damage the hair shaft; for this reason, this study aimed to evaluate the morphological effect of the herbal dye derived from Lawsonia inermis (henna), on hair. Dyed hairs were evaluated by means of SEM. Subsequently, they were compared, qualitatively and quantitatively, with undyed hairs. Results showed a positive impact on the cuticula pattern and on the diameters of the examined samples, after henna application. Different results, about the degree and the type of morphological changes occurring on pigmented hairs, may depend on the phenotype and on the health condition of hair, before dye treatment.