A comparative investigation of the protective effects of natural oils vs. silicones on African and Caucasian hair types

The aim of this study is to determine the protective effects of two natural oils (Crambe Abyssinica (Anyssinian) seed oil and Orbignya Oleifera (Babacu) seed oil), compared to two silicones (Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone and Silicone Quaternium-22). Ex vivo assessments were performed on virgin Caucasian and African hair tresses. The natural oils were chosen according to their triglyceride structures and molecular weight; the silicones were selected for this study based on their affinity to hair and low thermal conductivity.