Critical assessment on structural analysis of scalp hair using scanning electron microscope (SEM) and compound microscope

Abstract

Hair dye is a source of beauty and has become a part of fashion for a more stylish look of hair. However, hair dye can cause damage on the hair structure. This is due to the chemical reaction between the hair and dye ingredients. This research was carried out to investigate the physical changes that occurred on the hair treated using hair dyes. Five subjects were chosen voluntarily to examine the effects of hair dyes on the hair cuticles, cortex and medulla. The hair samples were cut into three parts; the tip, middle and end parts of hair. The morphology of hair was examined using compound and scanning electron microscopes (SEM). SEM allows observation on higher magnification which contributes better resolution of image compared to compound and stereo microscope. Thus, this allows a detailed observation not only on the external surface but also on the internal part of the hair. The tip part of all hair samples was found to be smooth, few jagged edges and unlifted cuticle, while the tip parts of the hair showed the most damaged cuticle. Samples collected from 5 volunteers were labeled as H1-H5. Sample H4C which was collected from the end part of the hair shaft had the most damage with lifted cuticles and significant jagged edges. Compound microscope revealed the colour change of hair from black to a very bright colour depending on the type and amount of dyes applied to the hair. On the other hand, there was a variation on the presence of medulla of hair, therefore, the medulla structures were not effected from hair dyes. In conclusion, microscopic examination discloses that hair treated with hair dyes can contribute to physical damage of the hair.