Curl Cream Development – A Pilot Study

Abstract

Fibers in curly hair are specific and have significant differences in their structure and properties when compared to straight hair. Because of many scalp-protruding fibers, curly hair does not consist of uniformly curled strands, but rather of many differently-shaped fibers with different type of curl, Other than that, curly hair tends to be more dry, because it cannot absorb the moisture as easily, and it does not appear as shiny as straight hair because its shape can absorb the light. In curly hair the cuticle is slightly lifted, which makes it more prone to damage and dehydration. However, much more research should be conducted to be certain about the structures of different types of curly fibers. By using styling products it is possible to both style different curl patterns and nourish the hair by adding moisturizing ingredients to the product. The pilot formulations of curl creams were analyzed for different factors. Formulations had adequate appearance and their consistency ranged from fluid lotion to mouse structure. Almost all formulations were homogenous and easily spreadable, which is a crucial factor for easy product application. The pH values ranged from 5.09 to 6.97. However, instability issues in formulations containing Polisorbate 20 were identified upon mechanical stress testing, indicating that this emulsifier was inadequate even when varying other excipients.