EXPLORING THE USE OF ANTIOXIDANTS IN HAIR CREAMS IN NIGERIA

Abstract

Background: Antioxidants (AOs) prevent cellular damage by neutralizing free radicals. Endogenous and exogenous AOs benefit hair care by stimulating growth, reducing dryness, breakage, frizz, and greying. They protect hair lipids and proteins from UV damage and enhance scalp blood flow, promoting healthier hair.

Aim: To evaluate the presence and types of antioxidants in hair creams (HCs) used for black hair at the end-user level.

Methodology: This study involved 113 volunteers from an alopecia study at the Dermatology Clinic of Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex. Participants provided biodata, HC names, and ingredient lists. Each ingredient was assessed for antioxidant properties using literature and digital sources.

Results: Participants aged 17-42 years, with 70.8% being female. Among 47 HCs, 46 contained antioxidants, totaling 98 unique AO ingredients, comprising 22-100% of components. About 70% of HCs had >50% AO content, while 15% had only one AO ingredient. The most common AOIs (30-40% of HCs) were mineral oil, coconut milk protein, menthol, and shea butter. Less common ones (10-30%) included castor oil, olive oil, peppermint oil, almond oil, vitamins, sulphur, jojoba, paraben, glycerin, propylene glycol, and aloe vera.

Conclusion: The study identified 98 antioxidants in 47 hair creams. The most frequent were mineral oil, coconut milk protein, shea butter, menthol, castor oil, olive oil, and vitamins A, C, and E.