I briefly discussed the anatomy of hair in a previous post. That post inspired me to do some research and find out more about the hair on our heads and how it grows.

The hair structure is basically a collection of fibers surrounded by a layer of shingle shaped cells called the cuticle. The fibers are pretty fragile on their own. Together, along with the cuticle they are much stronger. The cuticles naturally grow in the same direction pointing downward toward the tips of the hair shaft. They also overlap to provide even more protection for the delicate hair fibers.

Light reflecting off of the cuticles gives the hair its shine. Some textures of hair are shinier than others but I will get into that in a minute. When the cuticles are laying flat, they reflect the most light giving hair a natural shine. Lifted cuticles reflect less light and gives hair a dull appearance. Lifted cuticles will peel off exposing the

delicate internal fibers and leaving the hair most susceptible to breakage. Eventually, with no protection the delicate fibers will split and break off.

Sebum, your hair's natural oil, sweat and product buildup can collect under the cuticles and cause them to lift. Shampoo can remove dirt and debris from your hair which is great but some shampoos contain harsh detergents that can strip your hair and cause more dryness. That's a whole other discussion as well. For now, just know that sulfate free is the best, shampoo for all hair types. Using conditioner is also a great way to smooth down the cuticles and return moisture to the hair.

All hair is the same structurally. They differ in shape. Three major hair textures are African/African American, Asian and Caucasian. Latin American hair tends to vary widely and can resemble any of these textures. Asian hair is round, Caucasian hair is oblong and African American hair is kidney shaped.

Asian hair's circular shape helps maintain strength and it optimum for sebum to travel down the shaft and moisturize the hair. Caucasian hair can be either straight or wavy depending on how oblong the shaft it. Sebum is still able to travel down the hair shaft but not as well as in Asian hair. African American hair's kidney bean shape gives it it curly/kinky texture. Oil doesn't travel down the shaft well which is why this texture tends to be dry and more fragile. Keeping these tips in mind should help in choosing hair care products that meet your individual needs.