Simple modified freezing technique for identification of human scalp and pubic hairs

BackgroundExamination of the macroscopic and microscopic appearance of human hairs is of great importance in forensic investigations.ObjectiveThe aim of this study is to establish a simple and a low-cost freezing technique for hair cross-sectioning especially suited for use in developing countries. The devised technique is further applied for the differential identification of microscopic cross-sections of human hairs obtained from two different body regions (scalp or pubic).Material and methodsSamples of human hair from both head and pubic regions obtained from Egyptian volunteers of both sexes. A simple modified freezing technique was devised for making cross-sections of the hairs. The modified steps of this technique are suggested by the author.ResultsThere were marked differences between the characteristic regular contours of hair sections obtained from head hairs as compared with the irregular contours of those from the pubic region.ConclusionsThe devised modified freezing technique used in the present study can be considered as a reliable method for making cross-sections of hairs. In addition it is rapid, simple and low cost compared to other methods; thus making it more suited for use in developing countries.