The present invention is directed to a hair treatment preparation comprising a payload in an intimate relationship to a polymeric nanostructure, the polymeric nanostructure being reactive to hair or capable of being immobilized onto or in hair. The nanoscopic nature of the entities being engineered ensures three distinct characteristics. First, the imparted attribute can be either nearly permanent or semi-permanent, depending on the attachment chemistry. In the semi-permanent version, the intended effect can be controllably erased by removal of the nanostructure by simple chemical or physical means. Second, the nanoscopic entities are invisibly small. Their presence does not deteriorate the hand or feel of the hair. Third, the nano-technology approach is infinitely flexible and adaptable. It can be coupled with many existing dyes, colorants, UV absorbers, fragrances, softening agents and the like for hair treatment. Methods for treating hair with the hair treatment preparations of the invention are also encompassed.