The Genomic Variation in Textured Hair: Implications in Developing a Holistic Hair Care Routine

Round 1

Reviewer 1 Report

Comments and Suggestions for Authors

The abstract is well-written and provides a clear and concise overview of the study. To further improve it, consider including more specific details about the methodology, key findings, and practical implications of the research. This will make the abstract more informative and engaging for potential readers.

·         Introduction

The introduction provides a good general context. The study's objectives are clearly defined, facilitating understanding of the research focus. Including a more detailed overview of existing literature could provide a stronger context for the research. Providing preliminary definitions of the technical terms used in the article would improve readers' comprehension. 

·         Materials and Methods

The use of data mining and in-silico analysis demonstrates a modern and multidisciplinary approach. The detailed description of the methods used facilitates the replicability of the study. Providing more details about the hair samples analyzed (number, origin, prior treatment) would be useful. Some parts of the methodology could be simplified or explained more clearly for non-specialist readers.

·         Results

The results are presented clearly and well-structured, with tables and figures that aid understanding. 

·         Discussion

The discussion provides a critical analysis of the results, highlighting potential applications and future implications. A more detailed section on the practical applications of the results would be useful for industry professionals.

·         Conclusion

The conclusions summarize the key points of the study, providing a clear closure to the work. A more explicit discussion of the study's limitations and potential future research directions would enhance transparency. The conclusions could include more detailed and specific recommendations for the daily care of afro-textured hair. 

·         Line 401 is empty and should be removed.

·         If you can please correct the word hair care in line 25.

·         If it is possible to add a figure of the hair growth cycle in paragraph 3.

·         On line 158, replace the period with a comma next to the number 22.

·         Include if possible, in section 6.1 an explanatory image of the different types of curly hair.

The article presents a detailed and innovative analysis of the characteristics of afro-textured hair, with a commendable multidisciplinary approach. The lack of original empirical data is compensated by thorough analysis and clear presentation of results. However, some improvements are necessary to make the work more accessible and applicable. The suggested revisions are predominantly minor, enhancing clarity, practicality, and overall understanding.

Author Response

"Please see the attachment."

Author Response File: Author Response.docx

Reviewer 2 Report

Comments and Suggestions for Authors

Dear Authors,

I write you in regard to your review manuscript entitled The genomic variation in textured hair: implications in developing a holistic hair care routine. The studied issue is of interest to Cosmetics.

- in Figure 1, what would be the most external part above the cuticle?

- please, add more information about the medulla and its possible implication on the shaft.

- please, explain why the lipids in the shaft offer more resistance against UV radiation.

Overall, this review was well-elaborated.

Author Response

Thank you for reviewing this manuscript and for the constructive comments that helped improve it.

We have now made the following changes according to the Reviewer’s recommendations:

Comments and Suggestions for Authors

Dear Authors,

I write you in regard to your review manuscript entitled The genomic variation in textured hair: implications in developing a holistic hair care routine. The studied issue is of interest to Cosmetics.

- in Figure 1, what would be the most external part above the cuticle?

• In Figure 1, we have added an arrow depicting this layer as a Root sheath.

- please, add more information about the medulla and its possible implication on the shaft.

• We have added more information about the medulla and its roles in the hair shaft in new paragraph (Lines 89-94, highlighted).

- please, explain why the lipids in the shaft offer more resistance against UV radiation.

• The likely explanation is now added to the text (Lines 233-237, highlighted).