The hair shaft is the visible part of the hair that protrudes from the skin. It consists of dead tissue made up of keratinized cells that contain no living cells or blood vessels. The hair shaft itself is divided into three main components: the Cuticle, the cortex (barium) and in some cases the Medulla.
Hair shaft structure
- Cuticle : The outermost layer of the hair shaft, consisting of several layers of flat, overlapping cells arranged like shingles on a roof. The cuticle protects the inner part of the hair from damage and contributes to the hair's shine and smoothness.
- Cortex : The middle layer and main part of the hair shaft, consisting of long keratin fibers and pigment cells ( melanin ) that give the hair its color and strength. The physical and chemical properties of the cortex determine the texture, curl, and elasticity of the hair.
- Medulla : The innermost part of the hair shaft, present in some hairs. The medulla is a loose arrangement of cells and air sacs and plays a less clear role in the function and structure of the hair.
Functions of the hair shaft
- Protection : The hair shaft protects the scalp from UV radiation, heat, cold and injuries.
- Sensory function : Hair extends the skin's sensory system by responding to touch, pressure, and temperature changes.
- Social and psychological functions : Hair has important social and psychological significance, influencing personal identity and self-confidence, and plays a role in social perception.
Hair shaft care
Proper care is crucial to keeping the hair shaft healthy and minimizing damage. This includes:
- Gentle cleansing : Use of mild shampoos to remove dirt and product build-up without stripping the scalp's natural oils too much.
- Moisturizing care : Application of conditioners and hair masks to add moisture, smooth the cuticle and reduce frizz.
- Protection from heat : Limit the use of heat styling tools and apply heat protection products to avoid heat damage.
- Avoiding chemical damage : Take care with chemical treatments such as dyeing, bleaching, and perming.
A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals also supports the health of the hair shaft by providing the nutrients necessary for hair growth.
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