Inulin, a natural agent with intriguing benefits for hair?

Inulin is a prebiotic fibre commonly found in plants such as chicory and Jerusalem artichoke. This compound has recently begun to be used in hair care products, such as shampoos, conditioners, masks, serums... In these products, inulin is attributed with moisturising properties for the hair fibre and it is believed to rebalance the skin microbiota, thus preventing the onset of skin conditions on the scalp.

However, it should be noted that there are no scientific studies reporting any benefits of inulin for the hair.

However, we can hypothesise about the potential benefits it might have on hair. Indeed, Edyta SZMUC and her team have evaluated the antioxidant properties of extracts from Jerusalem artichoke and chicory. Inulin was isolated from the plants and was applied in formulations at 1; 2.5, 5; 7.5 and 10%. The inulin extracts demonstrated an ability to neutralise reactive oxygen species depending on the concentration.

At 10%, the free radical trapping capacity was equal to 80% for the Jerusalem artichoke and 71% for the chicory. Inulin would function as a free radical scavenger, produced by oxidative stress (pollution, UV rays, tobacco, etc.). Therefore, it will prevent skin damage from free radicals such as the degradation of dermal fibres, but not only that.

Various studies have shown that photo-aggravation of the hair ageing process through oxidation leads to a decrease in hydration and a stiffening of the hair fibre, linked to lipid oxidation. The photochemical protection of hair proteins, such as keratin, is provided by hair pigments that absorb and filter radiation, then dissipate this energy as heat.

However, when they act to preserve these proteins, the pigments themselves can be altered or discoloured, leading to the formation of grey hair. It is conceivable that inulin, due to its antioxidant action and by preventing lipoperoxidation, could protect the hair from the influence of oxidative stress. As a result, they would be less dry and less irritating. Furthermore, it could play a role in the prevention or reduction of hair greying by preserving hair pigments. Once again, this is only a hypothesis.