Ultraviolet (UV) light is the most energetic solar radiation reaching the earth’s surface. UV radiation can be divided into three primary regions UVC (<290 nm), UVB (290-320 nm) and UVA (320-400 nm). Over exposure to sunlight leads to sunburn, premature ageing and wrinkling of the skin. These are effects, which are well known and thoroughly investigated. On hair, the most obvious effect of sunlight is that of discoloration (Bernhardt et al., 1993). UVB radiation is the primary cause of natural photo damage since the most significant chromophores in hair protein absorb UVB. Although UVA is not the primary cause of UV damage to hair, scientists have found that visible and UVA light are largely responsible for artificial hair colour fading (Locke et al., 2003). Previously, hair colouring is just used for hiding grey hair. However, in this new millennium, it becomes a trend for young people to colour their hair. Moreover, the increasing trend and potential growth of the hair colouring industry is evident with the production of more local hair colouring products like Sundance and ColorPro together with the other international brands like Natea and Feria (Ganesan, 2001). Therefore, it is important to develop shampoo and conditioner for coloured hair to prevent fading.

Main Research: Norashikin Ahmad