ABSTRACT Silicone hair serums are widely used in the cosmetic industry; however, their prolonged use has been associated with potential hair shaft damage due to their petrochemical origin. In response to the growing demand for sustainable and bio‐based materials, a dual‐phasic oil and polyol‐based serum (F 1 –F 6 ) was developed and evaluated. The formulations incorporated essential oils, such as Meadowfoam seed oil (35%–40%), wheat germ oil (33%), peppermint oil (0.1%), and rosemary oil (1%), along with polyols like glycerol (20%–30%) and sorbitol (20%–30%), supplemented with vitamins H (biotin, 0.1%) and E (0.1%). The essential oils imparted natural hair‐conditioning and scalp‐rejuvenating benefits, whereas the polyols acted as emollients, providing moisturization and protection. The biphasic structure contributed to visual appeal and product differentiation. The developed serum exhibited excellent physicochemical stability with an ideal pH range (4.9–5.5) suitable for hair care applications. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) confirmed enhanced cuticle integrity and surface smoothness of treated hair shafts. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) provided insights into the formulation's thermal behavior, demonstrating good compatibility and stability, which are essential for optimizing ingredient selection and extending shelf life. Consumer assessments indicated positive topical attributes and esthetic appeal, whereas antimicrobial testing (agar diffusion method) revealed satisfactory preservation efficacy. Overall, the study demonstrates that the developed bio‐based, dual‐phasic serum can serve as a sustainable and effective alternative to silicone‐based hair serums, offering enhanced functionality and consumer appeal, while supporting eco‐conscious formulation design.
Ranade et al. (Thu,) studied this question.