Effects of Weakly Acidic and Weak Alkali Electrolytic Water Treatment on Hair Dyeing

Purpose: This study investigated the effects of weakly acidic and weak alkali electrolytic water on hair during the dyeing process. Methods: Hair samples were collected from women in their 30s with no prior chemical treatments. Both types of electrolytic water were applied as pre- and post-treatments (dry and wet) to assess changes during the dyeing process. Various parameters, including tensile strength, friction, surface characteristics, color uniformity, and moisture content, were analyzed. The collected data were subjected to one-way ANOVA and MANOVA. Results: Dyed hair treated with weakly acidic electrolytic water exhibited higher tensile strength and moisture content than hair treated with weak alkali electrolytic water. Additionally, friction and color variation were more pronounced with weak alkali electrolytic water treatment. Cuticle observation revealed minimal lifting in dyed hair treated with weakly acidic electrolytic water, whereas cuticles in hair treated with weak alkali electrolytic water generally showed significant lifting. Conclusion: Hair damage during dyeing remains a major challenge in the industry. This study provides foundational data to help professionals mitigate hair damage and enhance color retention by incorporating electrolytic water treatments into the dyeing process.