Hair protects the head primarily by shielding the scalp from the sun's harmful rays.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
-
Protection from Sunlight: Hair acts as a natural barrier against ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. Melanin, the pigment responsible for hair color, absorbs UV rays, reducing the amount of radiation that reaches the scalp. This helps to prevent sunburn and decreases the risk of skin cancer on the scalp.
-
Insulation: Hair provides a layer of insulation, helping to regulate the head's temperature. In cold weather, hair traps warm air close to the scalp, helping to keep the head warm.
-
Physical Barrier: While not as significant as the other protections, hair offers a minor physical barrier against minor impacts and debris.
In summary, hair's primary role in protecting the head involves shielding the scalp from harmful UV radiation and providing insulation, with a minor role in providing a physical barrier.
