Human hair is primarily composed of a protein called keratin. This protein is also found in our skin, nails, and hooves of animals. Keratin forms long chains that intertwine and create strong fibers, which make up the hair shaft.
Hair is made up of different layers:
- Cuticle: The outermost layer, which protects the hair shaft and gives it shine.
- Cortex: The middle layer, which contains most of the hair's keratin and pigments, determining its color and texture.
- Medulla: The innermost layer, which is not always present and varies in size depending on the hair type.
Beyond keratin, hair also contains trace amounts of other substances like:
- Melanin: Pigments that give hair its color.
- Water: Which contributes to hair's moisture and flexibility.
- Lipids: Which help protect hair from damage.
The composition of human hair can vary depending on factors such as genetics, age, and health. For example, people with curly hair have a different keratin structure than people with straight hair.
