A Photo-Crosslinked Casein-Tannic Acid System for Enhanced Hair Protection: A Green Chemistry Approach

Hair is continuously exposed to various damaging factors in daily life, necessitating effective protective strategies that balance efficacy with environmental sustainability. In this study, we developed an environmentally friendly hair protective coating using casein proteins crosslinked with tannic acid via riboflavin phosphate-mediated photo-initiation. Casein solutions containing tannic acid (0.05% w/v) and riboflavin phosphate (0.01–0.1% w/v) were prepared and applied to virgin Asian hair, followed by blue light irradiation to initiate crosslinking. The coating formation mechanism was investigated through rheological characterization, which confirmed successful network formation with optimal mechanical stability at a 0.05% tannic acid concentration. Chemical analysis using FTIR spectroscopy revealed subtle but meaningful interactions between the coating components, while SEM analysis demonstrated the coating’s integration with the hair surface. Mechanical property evaluations showed that the photo-crosslinked coating significantly enhanced hair tensile strength by approximately 21% compared to untreated hair, while maintaining appropriate elasticity. Region-specific analysis of stress–strain behavior indicated that the coating extended the initial Hookean region while preserving natural resistance in the post-yield region, creating a balanced enhancement in mechanical properties. This approach offers a promising alternative to conventional hair treatments by utilizing natural, food-grade components and mild processing conditions, addressing growing demands for sustainable hair care solutions that effectively protect against daily damage.