Effect of hair oils and fatty acids on the growth of dermatophytes and theirIn vitropenetration of human scalp hair

Various concentrations of commonly used hair oils, unsaturated and saturated fatty acids were incorporated in Sabouraud's dextrose agar medium and their effect on growth of dermatophytes was studied. Mustard oil and unsaturated fatty acids were seen to completely suppress the growth in concentrations of 1% and above. The same oil and all unsaturated fatty acids were also seen to prevent penetration of hair by various dermatophytes using either Lu's or Ajello's technique.