Hair is a protein filament that grows from follicles found in the dermis, mainly on the body’s surface. It serves a wide range of functions, including sensory input, thermoregulation, and communication.
A hair is a tough protein filament that forms from living cells in a specialized area of the skin called the follicle. The follicle contains the hair bulb, a collection of nerves and blood vessels that nourish and deliver hormones to the living cells during development. The follicle also produces oils that protect the hair shaft as it emerges from the skin.
The hairs of humans and other mammals are made from a tough protein called keratin. They are attached to a stem cell, called the hair root, in the base of the follicle. This stem cell grows into the follicle and then divides rapidly. As the stem cell multiplies, it pushes down into the skin and creates a bulge at the follicle base (dermal papilla).
When the follicle is in the anagen stage of growth, stem cells in the hair root form a new, hollow sheath at the top of the follicle. This new sheath is surrounded by the epithelial cell layer, and new hair cells grow in it. As these new cells grow, they synthesize keratin and push the sheath upward to form the shaft of the hair.
As the shaft of the hair grows up the follicle, the cells in the sheath die and are replaced by the growing hairs. As the new hairs emerge, they become fully keratinized. This process is completed when the hairs stick up from the follicle and are fully visible above the skin surface.
A healthy scalp is essential for beautiful, thick, shiny hair. This means a balanced diet, plenty of vitamin and mineral-rich foods, supplements to give your follicles the nutrients they need, and a healthy lifestyle.
Your scalp is the smallest part of your head, so it’s important to keep it healthy and well-nourished. That means avoiding harsh shampoos and conditioners that can strip it of natural oils. Instead, choose a gentle shampoo that is safe for your specific hair type and texture.
If your scalp is sensitive to fragrance, it’s best to avoid products that contain strong scents. Using too much of a perfume or scented product can irritate your scalp and make it feel dry, scaly and irritated.
There are many different types of shampoos, each of which is specially formulated for a specific hair texture or type. Some are designed with thin hair in mind, while others are for those with thick or textured locks.
You should also look for a shampoo that is safe to use on color-treated or permed hair. It’s especially important to find a shampoo that is made with natural ingredients and is gentle enough for all your hair types.
It’s also a good idea to choose a shampoo that is made with ingredients that can help repair damage from the sun and other everyday factors. These can include antioxidants, biotin and vitamin E.