Hair combing rig allows manufacturers of shampoos, conditioners and smoothing agents to evaluate the 'combability' of treated hair samples, enabling scientific assessment of their products' efficacy
Stable Micro Systems has developed a new test for the hair care industry.
Used in conjunction with the TA.XTPlus texture analyser, the new rig comprises a unique mechanical function that allows continuous combing in order to replicate consumer action.
The results produced can be used to substantiate claims of 'improved manageability' and reduced breakage.
Many hair care products are marketed on their ability to de-tangle hair and eliminate the difficulties associated with brushing and combing.
Advertising and sales promotion will encourage consumers to try a product, but to ensure repeat purchase the product must live up to its claims.
Using Stable Micro Systems's Hair Combing Rig, manufacturers can perform 'before and after' tests that will accurately assess the effectiveness of their products, to allow product optimisation.
When performing a hair combing test, the Hair Combing Rig is positioned on the TA.XTPlus texture analyser and the supported length of hair is held vertically, near to the comb.
When instructed, the arm of the TA.XTPlus brings the comb down through the hair, recording the necessary force as it moves.
At the end of a stroke, the comb is mechanically disengaged and moves back to its starting position to begin the next combing cycle.
Both wet and dry hair samples can be tested, depending on the product attribute that is under analysis.
High forces indicate that consumers would experience difficulty when combing, while comparatively low forces reflect improved manageability.
Use of an automated data analysis macro would also provide additional properties such as tangle location and fixative 'brush-out'.
This fixture is one in a range that is precision engineered by Stable Micro Systems for the testing of hair care products.
Other test methods can analyse properties such as the consistency of shampoos and conditioners, the hardness and stickiness of hair waxes and the tackiness of hair fixatives, among others.
All of the uniquely structured attachments are designed for use with a TA.XTPlus texture analyser.
Stable Micro Systems' technical experts can custom design instrument fixtures according to individual specifications.
