CHI Spring 2008 - (Page 34) TALKING ABOUT TOOLS the company’s Ionic and Far Infrared Technology to protect hair against thermal damage. ■ In the science of hair color, red dye molecules are the largest (larger than blonde and brunette molecules.) That meant that traditionally, these vibrant red hues were not absorbed as deeply into the hair shaft and they tended to fade more quickly. In 2004, Farouk Systems Group adapted molecular technology to its new CHI® Infra Red hair color system, resulting in more radiant, long-lasting salon reds. ■ 2005 and 2006 became known as the “nanosilver” years at Farouk Systems Group. Recognizing the need for more healthful salon environments, the company introduced the CHI® Ceramic Nano Hairstyling Iron and Dryer, featuring nanosilver particles embedded into the handles and other critical areas, to kill microbes and reduce the possibility of spreading germs between clients. The next year, the nail industry welcomed CHI® Ceramic Nail Lacquer. These formulas feature microscopic ceramic particles to increase durability and reduce chipping, as well as nanosilver particles to prevent the spread of germs. If you have a digital clock or DVD player, you’re probably familiar with light-emitting diode or LED technology. Now LEDs are powering more than your dashboard readouts: ■ More than 1,500 medical facilities in the U.S. use LEDs that emit NIR light therapy systems to reduce inflammation in joints and relieve the pain of tendonitis and nerve disorders. ■ Smaller LED devices for the relief of joint and back pain are now available for home use. ■ Several companies are offering small LED laser devices designed to improve scalp circulation and stimulate hair growth. ■ Another light therapy device uses LED to smooth wrinkles and diminish fine lines in skin. Light Up Your Life Now Farouk Systems Group is deep into its own light research and one of the first results of that research was previewed in August of 2007. The new CHI® Ceramic and NIR Hair Processor improves hair color services in the salon. A combination of ionic, ceramic and far infrared light enhances color penetration, reduces processing time and improves hair’s moisture content. At the same time, an array of special LEDs offer optional LLLT and NIR light to stimulate scalp tissue, which speeds up the healing of minor abrasions and stimulates hair growth. The LEDs are arranged behind and above the head within the processor, to treat the scalp while the color processes. And that’s not all! The processor also features an auto-sterilization system using blue/violet LEDs that disinfect the inner surface of the processor’s hood. It stands to reason that what’s good for periodic salon color is also good for daily use. So, next up, look for a CHI® and NIR version of the company’s popular hand-held hair dryers for home use. NIR LEDs mounted near the air outlet will treat the scalp as the tool dries and styles the hair. It’s truly the light fantastic! n DENNIS ROBERT MORRISON Born: Nov. 13, 1941, Chicago, IL Degrees: 1963 B.S. Pharmacy 1966 M.S. Radiation Biophysics 1970 – Ph.D. Cell & Molecular Biology Dennis was a Senior Scientist in Biomedical Research & Biotechnology from 1974 – 2006 at NASA – Johnson Space Center, Houston, Texas. He has authored or co-authored 106 publications, has 14 patents and 63 presentations at national and international scientific meetings. He was the Principal Investigator for more than 210 different experiments on 15 space flights from 1974 - 2003. He has founded three companies involving nuclear decontamination, anti-corrosion coatings, and biomedical applications. In 2000 he received the Distinguished Alumni Award, from the University of Florida, College of Pharmacy. His research expertise includes: Cellular radiation repair mechanisms, effects of radio-protectant drugs, molecular-level detection of cancer, microencapsulation of cells for transplantation and drugs for new delivery systems. Recent research includes improvements in photodynamic therapy, near-IR effects on wound repair, and development of microcapsule drug delivery systems combined with ultrasound contrast to directly treat tumors. A New Light Nanotechnology is not the only NASA technology that benefits health, safety and beauty. Within the research facilities at NASA, light technology is a hot topic. Light is measured in wavelengths. The human eye can only detect light in wavelengths that measure from 300 to 750 nanometers and appear on the spectrum from violet to red. For more than 18 years, the higher wavelengths that we don’t see (between 1,000 and 1,300 nanometers and commonly known as laser light) have been used effectively in beauty settings to remove unwanted hair and to “photo-bleach” undesirable dark pigments in the skin. Now there is conclusive evidence that shorter wavelengths/lower levels of light (630-750 nanometers) combined with near infrared (NIR) light can also benefit the hair, skin and scalp. Why? Because NIR light penetrates 8 to 10 millimeters of skin tissue and when it does, it sets off a series of cellular events which stimulate collagen formation, improve blood circulation and even stimulate sluggish hair follicles! In medicine, the research is ongoing. At NASA’s Biotechnology Sciences Offices’ Second International Conference on Photodynamic Therapy and Photobiology in 2001, scientists reported that NIR light had been used to: ■ Accelerate the healing of open wounds in diabetic patients. ■ Treat severe mouth ulcers in children following high doses of radiation therapy. ■ Improve the regeneration of bone surrounding dental implants. ■ Stimulate the regeneration of damaged retinal cells in eyes. In the realm of skin care and beauty, the FDA approved a combined light therapy to treat acne. First, low level light therapy (LLLT) kills the acne bacteria, then NIR light is used to speed up healing and reduce scarring. 34 Volume IV, Issue 14
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