The Science Behind Your Strands
Hair science is a fascinating field that delves into the intricate details of the human hair structure and its growth cycle.
At its core, a hair strand is composed mainly of a protein called keratin, and it emerges from tiny hair follicles embedded in the skin. The growth of hair follows a cyclical pattern, including anagen (also known as the growth phase), catagen (the transitional phase), and telogen (the resting phase). The factors influencing hair health and growth are diverse, encompassing genetics, hormonal balance, nutrition, and even external factors like environmental conditions and hair care practices.
Understanding the science of hair aids researchers in developing innovative solutions for common hair-related issues such as hair loss and damage. But what’s more! It helps you make informed choices about your hair care routine keeping your locks luscious and healthy.
Hair types can vary widely from person to person and are typically categorized based on factors like texture, curl pattern, and thickness.
Different Hair Types
In total, there are four hair types.
Straight Hair (Type 1): Straight hair lacks a noticeable curl or wave pattern. It tends to be smooth and sleek.
Wavy Hair (Type 2): Wavy hair has gentle, S-shaped waves. It falls somewhere between straight and curly.
2A: Fine and thin waves with a slight "S" shape.
2B: Medium-thick waves with more defined "S" shapes.
2C: Thick waves with pronounced "S" shapes, sometimes bordering on loose curls.
Curly Hair (Type 3):
Curly hair forms tight, well-defined curls or spirals. It can range from loose to very tight curls.
Curly hair comes in a variety of types and patterns, and it's often classified based on the shape and size of the curls. The most widely recognized system for categorizing curly hair types is the one created by Andre Walker, Oprah Winfrey's hairstylist. He identified four main types (1, 2, 3, and 4) and further divided them into subcategories based on curl patterns and characteristics. Here's an overview of the different types of curly hair.
3A: Loose, well-defined curls that are about the size of sidewalk chalk.
3B: Springy, tighter curls that are approximately the size of a marker.
3C: Coiled, corkscrew-like curls, often with a lot of volume and shrinkage.
Coily Hair (Type 4): also known as kinky or afro-textured, has tightly coiled or zigzag-shaped curls. It's common among individuals of African descent.
4A: Tightly coiled "S" or "Z" patterns with a defined curl structure.
4B: Z-patterned coils that may appear less defined and more zigzag-like.
4C: Highly dense and tightly coiled hair with a minimal curl pattern, often appearing as a dense cloud of coils.
Different Textures
Now to understand the textures of hair, there are four different kinds.
Fine Hair
This refers to hair strands that are thin and often more delicate. It can belong to any curl pattern. They are thin and lightweight. They can appear delicate and fragile. Fine hair tends to be prone to oiliness at the scalp. It may lack volume and body. Styles may not hold as well without the use of styling products.
Medium Hair
This is neither fine nor coarse. It falls in between and is often considered "normal" hair.
Medium hair strands are neither very thin nor very thick. This texture is often considered "normal" hair. It strikes a balance between volume and manageability. Medium hair can hold styles reasonably well without excessive product use. It can adapt to various hairstyles and treatments.
Coarse Hair
Thick and sturdy. It can be straight, wavy, curly, or coily.
Coarse hair strands are thick and sturdy. They may appear strong and durable. Coarse hair tends to be more resilient to damage. It can hold styles effectively but may require more effort for straightening or smoothing. Coarse hair may be more resistant to chemical treatments.
Thick Hair
This refers to the density of hair on the scalp. It can be found in individuals with any texture.
Other Terms to Help Understand Hair
Porosity: Hair porosity refers to how well hair absorbs and retains moisture. It can be high, low, or normal.
Natural Hair: Hair that has not been chemically relaxed or straightened, often associated with the natural hair movement.
Colour-Treated Hair: Hair that has been dyed or chemically treated to change its colour.
Grey Hair: Hair that has lost its pigment and turned grey or silver due to aging or genetics.
Damaged Hair: Hair that has been subjected to excessive heat, chemical treatments, or physical damage, resulting in brittleness and breakage.
Frizzy Hair: Hair that tends to be prone to frizz due to humidity or lack of moisture.
Thin Hair: Hair that has low density and lacks volume.
Bald or Balding Hair: Hair loss or thinning that can lead to partial or complete baldness.
It's important to note that many people have a combination of these hair types and textures and may need customized hair care routines to address their specific needs. Discuss your hair type and texture with a professional stylist if you are unsure so that you can start taking care of your hair needs today and your locks may look and feel their best, in turn making U look and feel your best.
