Understand the composition and structure of hair

Hair denotes personality and lifestyle. “From a medical point of view, these are protein rods composed of melanin and keratin, an appendage of the epidermis, whose function is to expand the body’s contact area with the outside world”, conceptualizes dermatologist and trichologist Valcinir Bedin.

The physiological aspects are somewhat restricted compared to the psychological functions by which locks are responsible. Bedin points out that hair is linked to insertion and social class, behavior and, above all, self-esteem.

importance of keratin

Responsible for the flexibility and strengthening of the threads, keratin is produced in the epidermis and made from amino acids, vitamins and mineral salts. Although the market offers a multitude of ampoules and creams based on the protein, Bedin states that these products confer the benefits of the compound only temporarily.

“After three or four washes, the keratin is released from the hair. Therefore, if the patient shows a low production of the substance, the ideal is to resort to foods and nutricosmetics that stimulate production”, he recommends.

Protein from the wire color

melanin confers hair color. There are two types of protein: eumelanin (the most common and responsible for shades from brown to black) and pheomelanin (which gives shades of blonde and reddish colors). The absence of pigment results in a white or gray tone.

health reflection

The dermatologist and trichologist points out that the hair reflects the state of metabolism and, consequently, health. “Dry or excessively falling hair can signal thyroid dysfunctions. Excessive oiliness, on the other hand, can be a symptom of hormonal imbalance in the ovaries or in the testicles”, he warns. Therefore, when presenting any of the symptoms, it is important to consult a doctor.

yarn layers

The trichologist Patricia Maciel explains that the hair are made up of three distinct layers. “From the inside out, we have the medulla, then the cortex and finally the cuticle”. The expert details each one of them:

• Marrow: it is composed of blood and oxygen and gives structure to the thread, as if it were the spine. It is the only part that is connected to the living cell of the hair, because the bloodstream intertwines this union of dead cell (threads) with the living cell (bulb).
• Cortex: inner part, composed of keratin. It represents 90% of its structure and is responsible for the strength and resistance of the hair, making up the strongest and most vital layer.
• Cuticle: outer layer of the thread, also composed of superimposed keratin cells. Acts as a colorless and translucent protective cover.