EN
In the present work, the effects of hair type (weak/strong, greasy/normal/dry, presence of dandruff) and cosmetic treatments (using hair dryer, anti-dandruff shampoos) on hair mineral composition was discussed. The application of hair mineral analysis was exemplified by identification of exposure to elements from deodorants. Hair was sampled from 155 individuals who were asked to fill out a questionnaire. The elemental composition of hair was determined by ICP-OES (macroelements and major microelements) and ICP-MS (minor microelements, toxic elements, and other trace elements). Mercury was analyzed by AAS Mercury Analyzer. The results were elaborated statistically by Statistica 8.0. Statistical significance of differences was detennined by U Mann-Whitney test (p<0.05, p<0.1). For elements, the content of which differed between the groups, the reference ranges were elaborated, as were values within the 10th and 90th percentiles. Healthy and strong hair not dried with a dryer contained statistically significantly more K and La and less Co and Ca than destroyed, weak, dried hair and hair with dandruff. In hair with dandruff, statistically higher levels of Hg were found. The results of hair mineral analysis showed that Zn and Se were deposited on hair cuticle exogenously from medicated anti-dandruff shampoo from active ingredients. This technique was used to assess dermal exposure from deodorants. Individuals who used stiff, which contains the compound Zr as antiperspirant, contained 3 to 5 times higher levels of this element than those who used deo roll-on or spray, respectively.