...the branch of engineering that deals with things smaller than 100 nanometers (especially with the manipulation of individual molecules)
Nanotechnology is the science and technology of precisely manipulating the structure of matter at the molecular level. The term nanotechnology embraces many different fields and specialties, including engineering, chemistry, electronics, and medicine, among others, but all are concerned with bringing existing technologies down to a very small scale, measured in nanometers.
Up until recently, most industrial products are created by pushing piles of millions of atoms together-by mixing, grinding, heating-a very imprecise process. With the ability to manipulate molecules that measure a mere billionth of a meter, the options are unlimited. With the advances in nanotechnology, scientists can now pick up individual atoms to assemble them into simple structures or cause specific chemical reactions. (The prefix nano- comes from the Greek word nanos, which meant "little old man" or "dwarf.") Nanotubes made of carbon are being investigated for a variety of industrial and research purposes. Propellers have been attached to molecular motors, and electricity has been conducted through nanowires.
In the future, nanotechnology may be able to harness the forces that operate at the scale of the nanometer, such as the van der Waals force, as well as changes in the quantum states of particles, for new engineering purposes. The development of nanotechnology holds out great promise of improvements in the quality of life, including new treatments for disease and greater efficiency in computer data storage and processing.
For example, tiny autonomous robots, or nanobots, may one day be sent into human bodies to repair cells and cure cancers, perhaps even extending the human life span by many years. The simple devices created by nanotechnology so far have not yet approached the complexity of the envisioned nanomachines and nanobots.
As with the dark side of science fiction, some scientists caution that these nanobots could possibly be created to replicate themselves lik living organisms.
"Quoted from Dictionary.com"
Technologically, the hair and salon industry is not wasting any time bring this phenomenon to the fore.
Molecules of current size are limited in their ability to penetrate the hair shaft have been limited to the delicate game of chemical invasion by way of perms and colors. Shampoo and conditioning products have historically performed their job topically and have had limited ability to do much else.
Since early in the last century, chemicals have been used to perm and color hair. "Neutralizing" stopped the chemical process and then the application of conditioners was the only option after these processes. Professional hair care products, topically speaking, did not have the punch that nanotechnology now affords.
The chemical process has always had the downside of "blossoming the hair shaft - causing what we see as frizz. Conditioners, smoothing products, and moisturizers help to smooth the cuticle layer, but never fully return it to it's previous pre-chemical lustre.
As the world of professional hair care products evolves, we will see nanotechnology play an ever increasing role. Minimizing chemical damage while maximizing health and shine.
We can anticipate every major professional hair care product manufacturer will undoubtedly embrace this technology. Molecules that measure a billionth of a meter are logically more capable of follicle penetration and will result in better, more effective products.
Nanoworks - the standard by which competing products are measured, is by far the industry leader. Pureology has set the bar very high and it will be some time before their competitors catch up. Their Nanoworks Shampoo and Conditioner, along with their NanoGlaze, Nanoworks Restorative Treatment, Nanoworks ShineLuxe, and NanoWax - all synonymous with high quality and luxurious professional hair care products.
We find at www.SalonProDirect.com that though these products carry a premium price, that the public is not deterred - as the results justify the expense. We have never had anything but overwhelmingly positive feedback on the entire line - high prices are ignored.
As professional hair care products move from the simple world of Herbal Essence, Vidal Sassoon, and the concept of pH balancing, every major player will soon embrace this Nanotechnology. The world of Professional Hair Care Products will never be the same. Stay Tuned.