A new eco-friendly hair conditioner made from wood could be the future of haircare. Scientists in Sweden created it using lignin, a substance found in wood, which also protects against UV rays and moisturizes hair.
The conditioner, combined with coconut oil and water, performed almost as well as commercial products in tests. It reduced hair tangling by 13% compared to a commercial conditioner’s 20%. However, it has a black color and a peat-like smell, which might not appeal to everyone.
The researchers are hopeful about commercializing the wood-based conditioner as a sustainable alternative to fossil fuel-based products. They have a patent for the formula and plan to conduct further tests for skin and eye safety before moving forward.
Despite some doubts from experts, the team believes in the product’s potential. The question remains whether consumers would embrace a black, wood-scented conditioner as a part of their haircare routine.
Vocabulary List:
- Eco-friendly /ˌiː.koʊˈfrɛnd.li/ (adjective): Not harmful to the environment; sustainable.
- Lignin /ˈlɪɡ.nɪn/ (noun): A complex organic polymer found in the cell walls of plants; provides structural support.
- Moisturizes /ˈmɔɪs.tʃər.aɪz/ (verb): To make something less dry or to add moisture.
- Commercial /kəˈmɜr.ʃəl/ (adjective): Related to or engaged in commerce or business.
- Sustainable /səˈsteɪ.nə.bəl/ (adjective): Capable of being maintained at a certain rate or level; environmentally friendly.
- Patent /ˈpeɪ.tənt/ (noun): A government authority or license conferring a right or title for a set period especially the sole right to exclude others from making using or selling an invention.
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