Hair Structure

Hair structure is basically the definition for the structure of one's hair. Hair is composed of protein know as Keratin. Keratin is also the same type of protein that produces the nails and other layers of skin.

The Hair shaft also plays an important role in hair structure; the hair shaft is visible above the scalp. The hair shaft is mostly dead cells which turn into keratin the protein that makes up the hair structure.

Understanding Hair Structure

Hair structure can be complex because it is made of strands, and each strand contains three layers that all have a special function in the formation of Hair structure. The first layer which is the inner layer is known as the medulla which is mostly present in thicker hairs.

The second layer or the middle layer which is also known as the cortex gives hair strength color and texture.

The third layer or the outer most layers is known as the cuticle. The cuticle is a thin, colorless strand of hair that actually protects the cortex.

Along with Hair structure it also consists of structure of the hair root, which the hair root is below the surface of the skin and enclosed with a hair follicle. Dermal papilla is found at the base of the hair follicle, and what the dermal papilla does is carries nourishment to the follicle to produce new hair, the dermal papilla is effective since it is fed by the bloodstream. Therefore Dermal Papilla is engaging in a hair growth cycle, where in the hair growth cycle each individual hair follicle goes through a certain cycle of activity, where the hair grows to its maximum length and than the hair growth stops and the hair sheds, than it is replaced by new hairs.

Hair Growth Cycle and Different Phases

The hair growth cycle is known to go through three different phases and theses phases are Anagen, Catogen and Telogen which they all play an important part in the hair growth cycle. Anagen is classified as the time where there is active growth during the hair cycle, Catogen is classified as the time when the hairs breakdown and change themselves. The last stage known as Telogen is where the hair is in the resting stage and preparing for regrowth.

Hair structure can also be connected with the nervous system there are muscles in part of the hair structure known as arrectores pilorum, which these muscles contract and cause the hair to stand up due to a stimulating effect to the nervous system, such as shock, fear or being cold can cause the hairs on your body to stand up.

Hair structure is composed of different stages and cycles to complete the hair growth process for one to grow long and luxurious hair. However at times due to genetics and chronic illness the hair growth cycle can be disrupted by many hair loss conditions and diseases. The best way to prevent the Hair structure from becoming dismantled is to learn as much as you can about your families genetics as well as the different types of hair loss conditions, so you will be aware of them and know how to protect and treat yourself if you develop any hair loss conditions.