Get to Know Your Hair: 10 Interesting Facts for Better Hair Health
It's no secret that at EVOLVh, we're obsessed with all things hair and are dedicated to helping you achieve your healthy hair goals. Hair is a fascinating and complex part of the human body, playing roles in protection, temperature regulation, and personal expression. Here are ten essential facts to help you appreciate and understand your hair better!
1. Hair Structure
Hair consists of two main parts: the hair shaft and the hair root. The shaft is the visible part above the skin, while the root is embedded within the skin, extending down to the deeper layers.
2. Types of Hair
Humans have two main types of hair: vellus hair and terminal hair. Vellus hair is fine and short, covering most of the body, while terminal hair is thicker and longer, found on the scalp, eyebrows, and other areas.
3. Composition of Hair
Hair is primarily made of a protein called keratin. This strong protein also forms the structure of our nails and the outer layer of our skin.
4. Hair Growth Process
Hair growth starts at the base of the hair follicle, where new cells are produced in the hair bulb. These cells harden and form the hair shaft, which is pushed up and out of the skin as more cells are produced.
5. Hair Growth Cycle
Hair grows in a cycle consisting of four distinct phases:
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Anagen (Growth Phase): This is the active growth phase where hair grows about 1 cm every 28 days. It typically lasts 2-7 years, and at any given time, about 80-90% of hair is in this phase.
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Catagen (Transition Phase): This short phase lasts about 2-3 weeks. The hair follicle shrinks and detaches from the dermal papilla.
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Telogen (Resting Phase): This is a resting period lasting about 3 months. Old hair remains in place while new hair begins to form in the follicle.
- Exogen (Shedding Phase): This is when old hair sheds and new hair continues to grow. Normally, 50-100 hairs are shed daily during this phase
6. Hair Color
The color of hair is determined by the type and amount of melanin in the hair cortex. Over time, melanin production decreases, leading to gray or white hair.
7. Hair Texture
The texture of hair, whether straight, wavy, or curly, is influenced by the shape of the hair follicle and the cross-sectional shape of the hair shaft. Round follicles produce straight hair, while oval or asymmetrical follicles result in wavy or curly hair.
8. Functions of Hair
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Protection from UV Radiation: Hair acts as a natural barrier, shielding the scalp and skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. This protection helps reduce the risk of sunburn and skin damage.
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Physical Barrier: Hair helps prevent dust, dirt, and other particles from entering sensitive areas such as the eyes, nose, and ears. For example, eyelashes protect the eyes from debris, while nasal hair filters out particles in the air we breathe.
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Thermoregulation: Hair plays a role in regulating body temperature. It helps trap heat close to the scalp in cold weather and promotes cooling through evaporation when it’s hot.
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Sensory Input: Hair follicles are rich in nerve endings, making hair sensitive to touch. This sensitivity allows us to detect changes in our environment, such as the presence of insects or other potential irritants.
- Social and Cultural Significance: Beyond its physical functions, hair also serves as a medium for personal expression and identity. Different hairstyles, colors, and grooming practices can convey cultural, social, and individual meanings.
9. Nutritional Needs and Scalp Health
Healthy hair growth depends on a combination of proper nutrition and a balanced scalp environment:
- Essential nutrients such as biotin, iron, vitamin C, niacin, and zinc support the formation of keratin and overall hair health.
- Omega-3 fatty acids and protein are crucial for hair strength and growth.
- Vitamins A and E contribute to sebum production, which naturally conditions the hair.
- A healthy scalp is crucial for optimal hair growth and maintenance.
- The scalp's pH should be slightly acidic (around 5.5) to maintain its protective barrier and prevent bacterial growth.
- Proper blood circulation in the scalp promotes nutrient delivery to hair follicles.
- Regular cleansing helps remove excess oil, dead skin cells, and product buildup, which can clog follicles and impede growth.
- Maintaining scalp moisture balance is essential; neither too dry nor too oily conditions are ideal for hair health.
- A balanced diet, proper hydration, stress management, and gentle hair care practices all contribute to both scalp health and hair growth.
10. Hair Follicles
Each hair follicle is a tiny organ that includes the hair bulb, sebaceous glands, and arrector pili muscles. These structures work together to produce and maintain hair. The sebaceous glands secrete oils that keep hair moisturized, while the arrector pili muscles cause hair to stand up when you get goosebumps. Understanding these fundamental aspects of hair can help you appreciate its complexity and importance, as well as guide you in taking better care of your hair. Whether you're styling, coloring, or simply maintaining your hair, knowing what it's made of and how it grows can make all the difference.
Sources
Healthline - Types of Hair: How to Style and Care for Your Hair Type
NCBI - What is the structure of hair and how does it grow?
Healthline - What Are the Four Stages of Hair Growth?
Onychair - Different Types of Hair Type | Natural Hair Texture Chart Curl Pattern
