Understanding the basics of the Hair Anatomy. What really goes on beneath the scalp?
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Whether you're on a journey to regrow your hair, improve the strength or simply understand how to care for it, Learning about the anatomy is a great place to start. Congratulate yourself for being here!
Hair is a complex structure with many fascinating layers and functions happening beneath the surface of the scalp.
So let me break this down for you in a way that's easy to understand.
What is Hair made of?
Hair is primarily made up of a protein called Keratin. Keratin is the same material that makes up your nails and the outer layer of your skin. Now what most people don't realise is that the visible part of the hair ( the strand) is actually dead. Once the hair has left the scalp, that's it! it's Dead!
All life happens beneath the scalp.
The Hair Structure: A Layered Look
The Hair Shaft
This is the part of the hair you can see and touch. It's made of three layers:
Cuticle - The outermost layer, like tiny tiles on a roof. It protects the hair and gives you shine
Cortex- The thickest layer, containing keratin and pigment ( melanin), which gives the hair its colour and strength
Medulla - The soft core in the middle of the hair strand ( not present in all hair types)
The Hair Root and Follicle
Everything below the scalp is where the hair is made and nourished.
Hair Follicles - A small sac in the skin where your hair grows, it's like the home of each strand.
Hair Bulb - Located at the base of the follicle. This is where living cells divide to form your hair
Dermal Papilla - A vital structure that delivers nutrients and blood flow to the growing hair. Think of it as your hair's fuel supply.
The Supporting Team
Sebaceous Glands
These are tiny oil glands attached to hair follicles. they produce sebum, your scalp's natural source of oil that keeps your hair moisturised and shiny.
Arrector Pili Muscle
This little muscle is responsible for making your hair stand up when you get goosebumps!
How Hair Grows: The Cycle
Hair grows in repeating cycles:
Anagen - the active growth phase (lasts 3-7 years)
Catagen- The transition phase (lasts 2-3 weeks)
Telogen - The shedding/resting phase (lasts 2 - 4 Months)
Exogen - The shedding phase (when old hair falls out and the new hair begins to grow out)
Understanding this cycle is essential if you're trying to reduce hair fall and promote regrowth.
Why knowing Hair Anatomy Matters?
Hair Follicles - A small sac in the skin where your hair grows, it's like the home of each strand.
1- It helps you choose the right products to use
2- It teaches you how to nourish the follicles, not just the ends of the hair.
3- It empowers you to care for your scalp, where healthy hair truly begins
4- It gives you a realistic view of hair growth and shedding.
My thoughts for you:
There is always a specific reason why things happen in this world, in our lives, in our bodies and our hair. You cannot simply progress without understanding the above.
Now that you have understood the hair anatomy, you can take better steps towards stronger, fuller and more vibrant hair.
"Hair that takes you back to good roots" - Hairmaid Hair Oil
You reading this is not a coincidence. It's a connection formed from the divine energies around you, calling to start your journey with what you have just learnt above.
