How can hair colour, care and sustainability be combined in one product? The new HairProtectColour technology, which was developed at The Hochschule Niederrhein (HSNR) Faculty of Chemistry, provides an answer to this question. Chemists Professor Dr Andrea Wanninger and Daria Giesbert have been working on a completely new concept based on lignin - a natural substance that gives plants their structure.
What makes HairProtectColour special is the combination of colour, care and protection for the hair. The lignin particles adhere to the hair and ensure that the colour is applied evenly. They also help to keep the hair shiny and easy to comb and give it more elasticity. They also protect against harmful environmental influences and help to absorb excess oil on the scalp. Even with damaged or fine hair, this technology ensures a beautiful, full colour result.
The idea comes from several years of research by Professor Dr Andrea Wanninger into lignin in cosmetic products. "We are researching these solids because they have interesting chemical properties. We have investigated which particles can adhere to the hair, which should also feel good," says Wanninger. New types of lignin that are suitable for cosmetics have made this progress possible. Together with colour pigments, it quickly became clear that this technology could be used for many hair colouring applications. The development was complemented by market and trend observations by Master's student Daria Giesbert, who is studying "Applied Chemistry" in Krefeld and is continuing to deepen her knowledge as an expert in cosmetic chemistry. Silicone-free and easy-to-use products that adhere to the principles of "clean beauty" are in demand.
HairProtectColour can be used in various forms - as a colour powder, spray, gel or cream. The application is simple, the colour effect is immediately visible and temporary variants can be completely washed out. This technology is not only suitable for colouring hair on the head, but also for covering roots, for special colour effects such as balayage or for eyebrows and beards. There is also a second version in which lignin is used in permanent hair colours to make them more environmentally friendly and functional.
Environmental friendliness is an important issue. Lignin is obtained as a by-product in industry and processed for cosmetic purposes. HairProtectColour therefore uses a sustainable raw material and at the same time reduces the amount of ingredients needed for the hair.
The commercialisation of the invention is being supported by PROvendis, the central service provider of the innovation2business.nrw network. HairProtectColour is currently being tested and evaluated by various companies. The aim is to have the technology licensed and to develop marketable products in collaboration with industrial partners.
