Evaluation and application of nano olive oil in hair care products, a potential substitute for silicone

The common silicone, a microplastic and non-biodegradable in nature has been widely used in cosmetic industry. Therefore, it becomes essential to replace or reduce silicon in cosmetic products. Hence, a comparative study was carried out to assess the efficiency of shampoos containing nano olive oil (as a replacement for silicone) and shampoos containing silicone (dimethicone 3%) and polyquaternium, respectively. Nano olive oil demonstrated properties of increased solubility and absorption through hair and skin. The results revealed that the shampoo containing 3% nano olive oil was more effective for healthy hair as compared to the shampoo containing dimethicone 3%. Further, nano olive oil demonstrated antioxidant and UVA-protective capabilities in human HaCaT keratinocytes which was substantiated by a significant reduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels as compared to the untreated, UVA-exposed control. The results reflected nano olive oil as a potential replacement for silicon, polyquaternium in the cosmetic industry, with improved properties over ordinary olive oil