Hair skinification – The cosmetic revolution for a new era of hair care by Mérieux Nutrisciences

20 January 2025

Hair Skinification is reshaping the hair care industry by emphasizing the same care for hair and scalp as for skin, leveraging premium ingredients, sustainable solutions, and personalized routines. This article outlines scalp health, solutions for treated hair, and innovations for aging hair.

Scalp health, a foundational approach.

Hair health starts with the scalp. Products like gentle exfoliants, nourishing masks, and antioxidant serums cleanse, nourish, and balance the scalp, enhancing hair growth while addressing issues like dandruff and itching. The European market for scalp care products is thriving, with an annual growth projection of 6.5% over the next five years.

– Testing methodology for scalp health. A clinical study assessed an anti-dandruff scrub’s efficacy on an oily scalp. 30 participants used the scrub over 2 months, monitored via clinical evaluations and sebumetric readings. Results revealed a significant reduction in sebum levels and dandruff, transitioning the scalp from “oily” to “normal.” However, despite clinical effectiveness, user feedback highlighted formulation challenges like reduced combability and shine, indicating a need for product improvement.

Beautifying treated hair

Chemically or heat-treated hair requires restorative care. Hair Skinification offers products that replenish lipids and fortify hair structure, addressing damage and preventing further issues. This sector is growing by 7-8% annually, making up 20% of the European hair product market.

– Study design for treated hair. An ex vivo study analysed the effectiveness of a hair care routine for dyed hair. Key findings included:

1. Color retention: products effectively preserved dyed hair color over multiple washes, maintaining salon-like vibrancy.
2. Cuticle protection: film-forming products shielded hair from damage caused by styling tools.

In vivo salon tests further validated these results, showing enhanced shine (+24.6%) and improved texture after professional treatment.

Precious hair: aging hair solutions

Innovative products address concerns like greying and hair loss. Grey hair products focus on enhancing shine and vitality, while anti-hair-loss treatments target follicle stimulation and hair thickening. The aging hair care market has seen a 9% growth, driven by Europe’s aging population.

– Hair-loss treatments. A study evaluated 2 anti-hair-loss serums on 30 participants. After 3 months, results demonstrated reduced hair thinning and shedding, supported by clinical trichoscopic evaluations and subjective user feedback.
– Grey hair care. Dedicated treatments for grey hair improve manageability and texture. Evaluations, including expert assessments and sensory tests, revealed significant improvements in shine, smoothness, and moisture, reducing roughness and static electricity.

Conclusion

Hair Skinification is redefining hair care by merging science, innovation, and beauty. Focused on scalp health, treated hair, and aging hair solutions, this trend is revolutionizing the European market, emphasizing healthier, stronger, and more beautiful hair.

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