NU 2022-014 INVENTORS
SHORT DESCRIPTION Methods and formulations for hair dyeing which utilize artificial melanin precursors combined with one or more amine compounds. The amine compounds facilitate alkaline conditions during hair treatment to promote rapid polymerization of the synthetic melanin, yielding a natural, long-lasting color effect with improved safety. BACKGROUND Traditional hair dye formulations often rely on harsh chemicals, extended application times, and sometimes toxic heavy metals, resulting in adverse reactions and limited color versatility. While alternative approaches such as nanoparticle-based or oxidative methods have been explored, they typically suffer from long application times or impractical application conditions, underscoring the need for a safer, tunable solution for cosmetic hair treatments. ABSTRACT This invention introduces an innovative formulation for hair dye that utilizes synthetic melanin precursors, which polymerize on hair fibers when exposed to oxidizing conditions in the presence of select amine compounds. The process is carried out in water or an aqueous solution without the use of heavy metals. By incorporating amine compounds such as aminomethyl proponal, aminopropanol, dimethyaminomethyl propanol, and related derivatives, the formulation achieves accelerated melanin polymerization while being more tolerable to the hair, subject, and administrator compared to other conventional alkaline agents. The resulting hair dye closely mimics natural pigmentation, providing a long-lasting and natural-appearing color suitable for at-home and professional salon applications. APPLICATIONS
ADVANTAGES
IP STATUS
A table comparing untreated or pre-treated hair to the hair after dye treatment with one of three amine compounds and the listed melanin precursor(s).