ABSTRACT
Chemists used simple methods to subjectively assess hair care product efficacy based on their internal standards. This chapter reviews hair care test methods and their areas of usage reported by investigators, and provides a set of references. Many methods have been developed for measuring foam generated by a shampoo and for evaluating its cleansing ability on hair. Foam generation and hair cleansing methods require either simple apparatus, readily available in a laboratory, or elaborate instrumentation. Consumers sensorially assess the condition of their hair after a hair care treatment. The chapter discusses a series of techniques and methods associated with hair condition. The friction test is considered more sensitive than the combing test and can usually differentiate performance of similar formulations, such as shampoos. Luster or sheen is considered one of the desirable properties of hair, as it implies health and beauty.
