Like finger nails, hair is made up of a dead protein known as keratin. The root of each hair is located in a follicle, which is embedded in the skin and nourished by the blood vessels in the dermis (see diagram below).

We generally have 100,000 – 150,000 hairs on our head and lose an average of approximately 30 hairs a day. It grows 10mm (1/2˝ ) per month and tends to grow faster in the warmer months. The hard, scaly outer layer of the hair shaft is tailed to the cuticle and is made up of overlapping scales that protect the hair from loss of moisture. Smooth, overlapping scales means healthy, glossy hair.

The cuticle can be damaged by harsh chemical treatments, incorrect brushing, wind, sun, blow-drying or poor diet. The damaged cuticle lifts away from the hair shaft, allowing essential moisture to evaporate, leaving the hair dull, coarse and brittle. Hair that is showing signs of damage should be treated gently. Apply good quality conditioning treatments regularly and select brushes and combs carefully. Immediate help can be achieved through correct brushing to distribute natural oils. Hair is at its most delicate when wet, as it stretches when being combed and can easily snap or break, resulting in split ends.

Wet combing and detangling must be handled very carefully to avoid damage. Beautiful hair can be achieved by eating a balanced diet with lots of leafy vegetables, correct cleansing and conditioning, and a good quality brush.