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Atomic force microscopy of human hair cuticles: a microscopic study of environmental effects on hair morphology
S D O'Connor1, K L Komisarek, J D Baldeschwieler
1Division of Chemistry, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA.
Abstract:
We have used an atomic force microscope to provide quantitative real-time analysis of human hair morphologic changes under ambient conditions. This form of microscopy combines the lateral resolution of an electron microscope and the flexibility of a light microscope. Three experiments were performed: a study of hair morphology in air versus water, a kinetic study of hair hydration, and a determination of how pH changes affect hair morphology. The overlapping keratinized cells that form the hair cuticle spread out between 50 and 150% when hydrated, compared to a total shaft diameter change of 10%. This hydration reaches a saturation point within the first few minutes after immersion. Also, hair swells much more at higher pH.
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