Locks of Wonder: Fascinating Facts About Hair
Hair - it sprouts from our heads every day, yet we rarely give it a second thought. But this fibrous filament growing from our scalps is far more complex and remarkable than its mundane appearance suggests. In this article, we'll delve into some of the lesser-known details about the keratinous strands atop our heads.
Hair Composition
Our hair is primarily made up of a protein called keratin - the same protein that makes up our fingernails and the outer layer of our skin. But what's fascinating is that keratin is also found in various animals' hooves, horns, feathers, and claws. So, in a way, the hair on your head has a similar chemical composition to a horse's hoof or a bird's beak!
The keratin molecules in our hair are bonded through hydrogen and salt bridges to give hair strength and elasticity. These proteins make up about 90% of each strand. The other 10% is water, lipids, pigments like melanin, and essential elements like copper and zinc. Who knew our plain old hair had such complex makeup?
Genetics and Environment Play a Role
When it comes to hair growth, our genetic makeup has a big influence. The hair cycle is programmed into our DNA, controlling factors like growth rate, density, curl pattern, and more. Those blessed with thicker, faster-growing hair can thank their ancestors!
But genetics aren't the whole story. Our environment and lifestyle impact our hair as well. For example, people living in warm, humid climates tend to have quicker hair growth compared to those in cold, dry regions.
A balanced diet rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals also supports healthy hair. So, while DNA deals with the cards, how we play them makes a difference, too.
Diet and Overall Health Are Important
What we put into our bodies on the inside shows on the outside - including our hair! Eating a nutrient-dense diet with plenty of protein can provide the building blocks for strong hair.
Iron, zinc, biotin, vitamin C and other vitamins and minerals are especially beneficial. Staying hydrated and managing stress also promotes a healthy head of hair. So be sure to eat your veggies, drink water, and find time to relax - your hair will thank you!
Hair's Elasticity
Ever notice how your hair seems a lot longer when wet? That's because each strand can stretch up to 30% of its normal length when saturated with water. The hydrogen bonds between keratin proteins loosen up when wet, allowing the hair to extend.
But once it dries, the bonds reform and the hair returns to its usual length. It's amazing how a little H2O can temporarily transform our tresses!
The "Living" Aspect of Hair
Here's a mind-bending fact - the hair you can see growing from your head is actually already dead! The only "living" part is underneath the scalp, where the hair follicle and root exist.
This is the part that actively produces new hair via cell division. Once those cells push up through the scalp and the hair shaft becomes visible, it's a dead keratin fibre. So, take good care of the living hair under the skin by eating nutrient-rich foods. The visible hair will benefit, in turn!
Full Rainbow of Natural Hair Colors
Human hair comes in a rainbow of natural colours, but some shades are more rare than others. Red hair, for example, occurs naturally in only 1-2% of the population. On the other end of the spectrum, black hair is the most common - over 90% of people on earth have black tresses.
No matter your natural hair colour, learn to love and embrace it! Dyeing and bleaching can damage hair over time. Let your unique genetic palette shine through. And if you must alter your shade, choose temporary and gentle options when possible. Your hair will thank you!
Hair as Forensic Evidence
Our hair can act as a historical record of our health and habits over time. Trace minerals, proteins, and chemicals become embedded in each strand as it grows.
Experts can analyze these biomarkers to gather forensic information. Hair analysis has helped solve crimes by revealing details about a suspect's diet, drug use, and environmental exposures months or years after the fact!
So think twice before plucking out a hair - you may be discarding a unique biological clue. Of course, DNA testing on hair has also famously helped exonerate wrongly accused criminals. So, while our hair may give us away, it can also set the record straight!
Hair Stronger Than Steel!
That thin, wispy strand growing from your head is stronger than it looks! An individual hair can support up to 100 grams in weight - equal to about 4 quarters stacked on top. Scalp hair is especially sturdy compared to other body hair, thanks to its thicker diameter.
Now imagine the combined weight-bearing capacity of all 200,000+ strands on your head. The total could reach over 20 kilograms! So the next time you tie your hair up effortlessly, appreciate the collective strength in those fibrous filaments. Your hair works hard to support itself all day long!
How Fast Does Human Hair Grow?
Your hair is some of the fastest-growing tissue in your body, second only to bone marrow. The average growth rate is about 1 centimetre per month. That may take a lot of work, but considering the average hair is 90 centimetres long, it has to grow steadily for years to reach that length!
So, while your hair feels static day to day, it is constantly renewing itself at a rapid clip below the surface. Treasure this sign of vitality and growth potential - both within your body and beyond!
Effects of Blow Drying
Ever wonder why your hair looks smoother and straighter after blow drying, even without a brush? The hot air breaks hydrogen bonds in the keratin proteins, allowing the strands to stretch out.
Then, as the hair cools and dries, the bonds reform in this altered state. That's why hair can revert back to its natural texture as humidity is absorbed. For heat-free blowouts, try air-drying smooth strands with a bit of leave-in conditioner.
Trimming Your Hair Helps Hair Growth?
Contrary to popular belief, getting trims does not impact hair growth rate or thickness. The follicles where active growth occurs are untouched by scissors. However, regular trims of 1/4 to 1/2 inch every 6-8 weeks can help remove split ends and maintain the appearance of healthy hair. So, while a trim won't speed up your locks, it will reduce damage from breakage - a win for luscious hair!
The Final word
As you can see, our mop tops are far more fascinating than they appear! Human hair is a marvel of biology, from its complex composition to its forensic secrets to its strength and growth patterns.
Hopefully, you've come away with a new appreciation for the keratin fibres sprouting from your scalp. What other hair mysteries intrigue you? Share your musings and make new discoveries about this under-appreciated part of our bodies!
Salon Haze is an award-winning hair salon in Vancouver, Kitsilano area. We are specialists in colour and style. If you are considering a new colour or style for your hair, contact us, and we’ll talk you through all the options to ensure your choice of colour reflects your personality and complexion.
Call today for a free consultation with one of our stylists. We have the best hairdressers and the best hair colourists in Vancouver. Call now at 604-620-9986 or email us at service@salonhaze.com.