Methods and Materials for Matching Natural Melanin Composition of Hair

NU 2021-004

INVENTORS

• Nathan Gianneschi*
• Zofia Elzbieta Siwicka
• Wei Cao

SHORT DESCRIPTION

This invention provides methods and materials for creating artificial melanin-based hair dyes that match the natural melanin composition and color of individual hair samples, avoiding harsh chemicals and conditions.

BACKGROUND

The color of human hair is primarily determined by the presence of eumelanin and pheomelanin pigments. Commercial hair dyes often rely on synthetic chemicals that can be harmful and require harsh application conditions, which may lead to hair damage and adverse reactions. There is a demand for hair dyes that mimic natural melanin composition, providing safer and more personalized options for consumers. The development of synthetic melanin that chemically matches natural hair offers a promising solution to these issues.

ABSTRACT

The disclosed technology focuses on methods for characterizing the melanin content in hair samples and creating synthetic melanin formulations that match natural hair melanin chemistry and color. Techniques such as solid state NMR, Fourier-Transform infrared spectroscopy, and mass spectrometry are employed to analyze natural melanin. Synthetic melanin is then produced using monomers like dopamine and L-DOPA through synthetic or enzymatic oxidation processes. This approach ensures the artificial melanin closely resembles the natural pigment in terms of chemical structure and color, providing a biocompatible and customizable hair dye solution.

APPLICATIONS

• Hair dye - Provides a natural-looking color without toxic chemicals.

ADVANTAGES

• Tunable chemical composition - Allows customization to match individual hair melanin.
• Mimicking natural melanin - Replicates natural pigments for authentic color.
• Biocompatible and metal-free materials - Reduces risk of allergic reactions and hair damage.
• Stable in aqueous conditions - Ensures durability and longevity of the dye.

IP STATUS

• US Patent Pending US18/215,701

Natural pheomelanins extracted from bird feathers and human red hair from two individuals. FIGS. 3A-3C: Optical images and SEM images of natural pheomelanin samples extracted from rooster feathers, human red hair I, and human red hair II, respectively. FIGS. 3D-3F: DLS plots of the corresponding natural pheomelanins. Inset are the optical images of the pheomelanin dispersion.