Plastic Biodegradable Hair Gel Takes the Bathroom By Storm

Related Vendors

Fraunhofer-Institut für Silicatforschung

Taiwan Machine Tool & Accessory Builders' Association (TMBA)

Hairsprays and hair styling products are among the most widely used cosmetic products worldwide—and, unfortunately, they also pose environmental problems, as the synthetic polymers they contain are not biodegradable. Researchers at Fraunhofer ISC now aim to change that with their new hairspray formula based on silica.

Most hairsprays contain synthetic polymers. Problem: they are not biodegradable, pass through wastewater treatment plants virtually unimpeded, and accumulate as microplastics in waterways, soil, and ultimately in the human food chain. While hair care products such as shampoos are now often formulated without silicones or synthetic emulsifiers, fully biodegradable solutions are still lacking in hair styling products. Market-leading hair styling products continue to rely on environmentally harmful plastics such as polyvinylpyrrolidone derivatives or polyacrylates combined with surfactants, film enhancers, and UV protection. After application, these form a water-insoluble film on the hair that only partially washes off during showering. The result: weighed-down hair with less volume—and microplastics in wastewater.

The Solution: A Natural Active Ingredient, A Novel Mechanism

The solution: The Fraunhofer Institute for Silicate Research ISC and its industry partner, IPPM Technologies GmbH, have jointly developed a hair-setting spray based on silica that is completely biodegradable and can compete with established market products in terms of hold. Silicic acid is a natural component of our environment. It is found in oceans and soils and also enters our food chain via plankton and plants. It is neither toxic nor harmful; in fact, it is associated with positive effects such as bone and skin regeneration.

Technological Breakthrough: Silicic Acid Precursors Cross-Link Directly on the Hair

Unlike conventional products, which contain dissolved plastics, this new development relies on molecular precursors. Using a specially developed microwave process, the project team synthesized so-called silica clusters: chemically cross-linked silica precursors that can be packaged in a spray can in a formulation based on natural ingredients while remaining stable during storage.Unlike conventional products, in which the dissolved synthetic polymers are deposited as a film on the hair, the molecular precursors trigger an instant cross-linking reaction only upon spraying. This creates a thin, supple silica film directly on the hair surface, strengthening the hair. In standardized comparative tests, the new product achieves a competitive—and in some cases even superior—strengthening effect compared to established market products. The outer cuticle layer of the hair is smoothed, making the hair surface more even and reducing friction. As a result, the hair feels both strong and supple, while providing the desired hold for the hairstyle. When washed, the silica film dissolves completely, forming natural, water-soluble monosilicic acid, which does not contaminate drinking water and is harmless to the environment. Since no residue forms on the hair, its natural volume is preserved.The eco-friendly hairspray is currently being prepared for bottling. Once all requirements are met, the product will be available on the market by the end of 2026.