Hair is an intricate part of our body. It protects the skin, traps particles around the eyes, and expresses our individual style. It can be damaged and regenerate without scarring, and it covers almost every surface. Let’s take a look at how this complex system works. Hair follicles are stocking-like structures located deep within the skin, with three layers. The inner layer is known as the medulla, while the outer layer is called the cortex, and makes up the majority of the hair shaft.
Hair follicles determine the texture and color of your hair. Oval follicles produce curly hair, while round follicles give birth to straighter hair. Both of these shapes are largely determined by genetics, though they can change throughout your life. This means that the color of your hair is likely to be a reflection of your family’s makeup, so it’s important to take the time to determine what kind of hair you have.
In early modern China, the queue was a popular male hairstyle, worn by Han Chinese and Manchus in central Manchuria. The hair on the front of the head was shaved every ten days, mimicking male-pattern baldness. The remaining hair was braided into a long pigtail. However, the style was not universal; it was only worn by men. During the Qing dynasty, Chinese women and children were also seen wearing the queue.
The hair on our body serves several functions, and some people wear it as an accessory. The hair on our head serves as a form of biological advertisement and provides insulation against the elements. Hair also extends our sense of touch. Moreover, guard hairs serve to warn of danger. The fur of polar bears helps them keep warm, and it also protects the eyes from the sweat and dirt. But why is it important? Let us explore this fascinating aspect of hair and its function in our lives.
Almost every part of the human body is covered with hair. The majority of body hair is small, colorless vellus hairs, while terminal hairs are thicker, longer, and pigmented. Humans have approximately 5 million hair follicles, with around 100,000 in the scalp. The follicles in our body contain DNA. Hair follicles can be used to identify people, and even test their paternity.
In some cultures, regular hairdressing is considered a sign of status and wealth. However, the dreadlocks of the Rastafari movement were largely despised early on. Moreover, having your hair cut may represent liberation from the past or mourning. The process is not as simple as it seems, and there are different cultural meanings behind hair-cutting. The hair growth cycle is complex and constantly changes. If hair is not cared for properly, it may not look healthy and lustrous.
Apart from proper diet, it is important to use proper products for your hair. Always use a mild shampoo on a damp scalp. Also, try to avoid yanking knots with your fingernails. Conditioners are very effective at smoothing out tangled hair, but they can also make your hair flat and oily. Once you’re done with the shampooing, rinse your hair thoroughly using plenty of clean water and pat it dry with a soft towel. Make sure you use a wide-tooth comb to untangle your hair from any knots.