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Hair and nails: anatomy, physiology, illness and care

I. Anatomy and physiology of hair

IA Hair structure

Hair is a ceratinized thread growing from a follicle of the hair located in the skin. The main parts of the hair:

  • Scapus pili rod: The visible part of the hair protruding above the surface of the skin.

    • Cuticula: The most outer layer consisting of the overlapping scales of keratin, resembling a tile on the roof. The cuticle protects the inner layers of the hair from damage. A healthy cuticle is smooth and reflects the light, giving the hair shine. Damage to the cuticle leads to dullness, brittleness and split ends.
    • Cortex (Cortex): The thickest layer that makes up the bulk of the hair. Contains keratin fibers located parallel to each other, as well as melanin pigment, which determines the color of the hair. The cortical substance is responsible for the strength, elasticity and texture of the hair.
    • Core (medulla): The central layer of hair, which is not in all types of hair. Especially often found in thick hair. It consists of loose cells and air cavities. The function of the core has not been fully studied, but it is assumed that it plays a role in thermal insulation and determining the rigidity of the hair.

  • Hair root (Radix Pili): Part of the hair located inside the follicle.

    • Folliculus pili. A burlap -shaped recess in the skin from which the hair grows. The structure of the follicle determines the shape of the hair (straight, wavy, curly). The angle of tilt of the follicle to the surface of the skin affects the direction of hair growth.
    • Hair papilla (Papilla pili): Connecting fabric located at the base of the follicle. Contains blood vessels that feed hair and nerve endings that regulate hair growth.
    • Hair onion (Bulbus pili): The expanded part of the follicle surrounding the hair papilla. In the bulb there is a division of cells that form the hair.
    • Matrix (Matrix): Actively dividing cells located in the bulb. Matrix cells are differentiated into keratinocytes, which, filled with keratin, form a hair rod. Melanocytes in matrix produce melanin, dying hair.
    • Inner root vagina (Vagina Radicis Interna): A layer of epithelial cells surrounding the root of the hair and helping it to grow up the follicle.
    • External root vagina (Vagina Radicis Externa): Continuation of the epidermis of the skin surrounding the inner root vagina.
    • Glass membrane (Membrana vitrea): The basal membrane separating the hair follicle from the surrounding connective tissue.
    • Musculus muscle (musculus arrector pili): Smooth muscle attached to the hair follicle and epidermis. The contraction of this muscle leads to lifting the hair, which causes “goose skin”.

Ib Chemical Hair Composition

The hair consists mainly of keratin (about 90%), as well as water (10-15%), lipids, pigments (melanin) and trace elements.

  • Keratin: Fibrillar protein, which has high strength and resistance to external influences. Keratin molecules consist of amino acids connected by peptide bonds. Cistaine containing sulfur plays an important role in the formation of disulfide bonds that give hair strength and elasticity to the hair.
  • Water: Important to maintain elasticity and hair flexibility. Dry hair becomes brittle and prone to damage.
  • Lipids: They form a protective film on the surface of the hair, preventing the loss of moisture and giving shine to the hair. The sebaceous glands located next to the hair follicles are distinguished by the skin fat that contains lipids.
  • Melanin: Pigment that determines the color of the hair. Eumlanin is responsible for dark shades (black, brown), Feomalanin – for light shades (blond, red). The amount and ratio of these two types of melanin determine the individual hair color. With age, the production of melanin is reduced, which leads to the appearance of gray hair.
  • Microelements: Zinc, iron, copper, selenium and other trace elements are necessary for hair health. Their deficiency can lead to hair loss and a deterioration in their quality.

IC hair types

Hair classification is based on various characteristics:

  • By type of scalp:

    • Normal hair: Balanced sealing, brilliant, elastic, are easily combed.
    • Dry hair: Inadequate sealing, dull, brittle, split ends, is difficult to comb.
    • Bold hair: Excessive sealing, quickly become dirty, sticky, lose volume.
    • Combined hair: Fat at the roots and dry at the ends.

  • By structure:

    • Straight hair: Smooth, smooth, easily combed.
    • Wavy hair: They have a slight wave, easily fit.
    • Curly hair: Formed in spirals or curls, require special care.
    • Curly hair: The most curly type of hair, often dry and brittle.

  • In thickness:

    • Thin hair: Easily damaged, quickly lose volume.
    • Medium hair: The most common type, quite strong and elastic.
    • Thick hair: Durable, resistant to damage, is difficult to fit.

Hair growth ID

Hair growth occurs cyclically and consists of three phases:

  • Anagen (growth phase): The longest phase lasts from 2 to 7 years. In this phase there is an active division of cells in the hair onion and hair growth. The duration of the anagen determines the length to which the hair can grow. About 80-90% of the hair on the head are in the anagen phase.
  • Katagen (transition phase): The short phase, lasts about 2-3 weeks. In this phase, hair growth slows down, the hair follicle is reduced, and the hair papilla is separated from the bulb. About 1-2% of the hair on the head are in the phase of Katagen.
  • Telogen (Phase Salm): It lasts about 3 months. In this phase, hair growth stops, and the hair remains in the follicle until it pushes a new growing hair. About 10-15% of the hair on the head are in the heterogene phase.

After the teenager, the follicle passes back to the anagen phase, and the cycle is repeated. Normally, a person loses from 50 to 100 hair per day, which is part of a natural hair growth cycle.

IE factors affecting the growth and condition of the hair

The growth and condition of the hair is influenced by many factors:

  • Genetics: Determines the type of hair, their structure, color and a tendency to loss.
  • Age: With age, hair growth slows down, hair becomes thinner and gray.
  • Hormonal background: Hormones play an important role in the regulation of hair growth. Hormonal changes associated with pregnancy, birth, menopause, as well as diseases of the thyroid gland and adrenal glands, can affect the condition of the hair.
  • Nutrition: The lack of nutrients, especially protein, iron, zinc, biotin and vitamins, can lead to hair loss and a deterioration in their quality.
  • Stress: Chronic stress can disrupt the hair growth cycle and lead to hair loss (heterogene alopecia).
  • Diseases: Some diseases, such as autoimmune diseases, infections and skin diseases, can affect the condition of the hair.
  • Medicines: Some drugs, such as chemotherapeutic agents, antidepressants and anticoagulants, can cause hair loss.
  • External factors: The effect of sunlight, high temperatures, chemicals (paints, curls) and mechanical damage (combing, tight hairstyles) can damage hair.

II. Hair and scalp of hair

II.A. Alopecia (hair loss)

Alopecia is a pathological hair loss, leading to their thinning or complete disappearance in certain areas of the scalp or body. There are various types of alopecia:

  • Androgenic alopecia (male and female): The most common type of alopecia associated with the genetic predisposition and exposure to androgens (male sex hormones). In men, it is manifested by thinning of hair on the forehead and crown, in women – with diffuse thinning of hair throughout the head.
  • Focal alopecia (nesting): Autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the hair follicles, which leads to the appearance of round or oval sections of baldness.
  • Telegnum alopecia: Hair loss caused by a violation of the hair growth cycle. Often associated with stress, diseases, drugs or hormonal changes.
  • Traction alopecia: Hair loss caused by constant hair tension, for example, when wearing tight hairstyles (pigtails, tails, dreadlocks).
  • Rickeeper alopecia: Hair loss caused by damage to the hair follicles and the formation of cicatricial fabric. It can be caused by injuries, burns, infections or skin diseases.

II.B. Seborrheic dermatitis

Seborrheic dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease, which often affects the scalp. It is characterized by redness, peeling and itching. The cause of seborrheic dermatitis is not fully known, but it is believed that the malassezia fungus, excessive sealing and immune disorders play a role in the development of the disease.

II.C. Dandruff

Dandruff is a common condition characterized by peeling of the scalp. It can be associated with seborrheic dermatitis, dry scalp, fungal infection or other factors.

II.D. Psoriasis of the scalp

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin disease that can affect the scalp. It is characterized by the appearance of red, peeling plaques covered with silver scales.

II.E. Fungal scalp infections (stripping lichen)

The fungal scalp infections, such as cutting lichen, are caused by fungi that affect the hair follicles. They are characterized by the appearance of itching, flaky bald stains, as well as inflammation and pustules.

II.F. Pediculese (Vshi)

Pedicules is infection of the scalp with lice. It is characterized by itching caused by lice bites, as well as the detection of lice and their nits (eggs) on the hair.

III. Hair care

III.A. Washing hair

  • Choosing shampoo: Shampoo should be selected in accordance with the type of hair and scalp. Moisturizing shampoos are suitable for dry hair, and shampoos that regulate the seafrotment for oily hair. For dyed hair – shampoos that protect color.
  • Washing frequency: The frequency of washing the hair depends on the type of hair and lifestyle. Bold hair requires more frequent washing than dry hair. On average, it is recommended to wash your hair 2-3 times a week.
  • Washing technique: Shampoo should be applied to wet hair, massage the scalp with your fingertips for several minutes, then rinse thoroughly with water. Do not rub your hair too much so as not to damage the cuticle.
  • Air conditioning and masks: After washing with shampoo, it is recommended to use air conditioning or hair mask. The air conditioner smoothes the hair cuticle, facilitates combing and gives the hair shine. The hair mask contains more concentrated ingredients that feed and restore hair.

III.B. Combing hair

  • CHOSE CHIED: To comb the hair, you should use a comb with wide teeth so as not to damage the hair. For curly hair, combs with rare teeth are suitable.
  • Combing technique: Combing the hair should be carefully, starting from the tips and gradually moving to the roots. Wet hair should not be combed, as it is more vulnerable to damage.
  • Scalp massage: Combing hair is useful to stimulate blood circulation of the scalp, which contributes to hair growth.

III.C. Drying hair

  • Natural drying: The best way to dry hair is natural.
  • Drying with a hairdryer: When using the hair dryer, you should set a low temperature and keep a hair dryer at a distance of at least 15 cm from the hair. It is recommended to use thermal protection products to protect the hair from damage.

III.D. Hair laying

  • Using thermal protection products: Before using an iron, curling iron or other thermal tools for laying hair, it is necessary to apply a heat -protective agent to protect the hair from damage.
  • Limiting the use of chemicals: Frequent use of paints, means for curling and straightening hair can damage the hair structure. These funds should be used as little as possible and choose more gentle formulas.

III.E. Protection against external factors

  • Sun protection: The effect of sunlight can damage hair. It is recommended to wear a headdress in sunny weather or use hair products with SPF protection.
  • Cold protection: Cold air can dry hair. It is recommended to wear a headdress in cold weather.
  • Protection against chlorinated water: Chlorine water can damage hair. It is recommended to wear a swimming cap when visiting the pool.

III.F. Hair health nutrition

  • Protein: Protein is the main building material for hair. It is recommended to eat a sufficient amount of protein for food (meat, fish, eggs, legumes, nuts).
  • Iron: Iron deficiency can lead to hair loss. It is recommended to consume foods rich in iron (red meat, liver, spinach).
  • Zinc: Zinc is necessary for hair growth. It is recommended to consume foods rich in zinc (seafood, nuts, seeds).
  • Biotin: Biotin is important for hair health. It is recommended to consume foods rich in biotin (eggs, nuts, liver).
  • Vitamins: Vitamins A, C, E and B vitamins are important for hair health. It is recommended to use a variety of fruits and vegetables.

IV. Anatomy and physiology of nails

IV.A. The structure of the nail

Nails are horn plates located on the back of the distal phalanges of the fingers and legs. Nails consist of keratin, the same protein as the hair. The main parts of the nail:

  • Nail plate (lamina unguis): The visible part of the nail consisting of tightly packed keratin cells. The nail plate is solid, transparent and slightly convex.
  • Nail bed (Lectus unguis): The skin located under the nail plate. The nail bed contains blood vessels that feed the nail, and nerve endings that provide sensitivity.
  • Nail roller (Vallum unguis): The skin surrounding the nail plate from three sides (from the sides and at the base).
    • Side rollers: The skin surrounding the nail plate from the sides.
    • The rear nail roller: The skin located at the base of the nail plate.
  • Matrix unguis: The area located under the rear nail roller. In the matrix, cells forming the nail occur. Matrix determines the thickness, shape and growth rate of the nail.
  • Punched (Lunula): The whitish semi -moon region at the base of the nail. Lunks-this is part of the matrix, protruding from under the rear nail roller.
  • Circulus (Eponychium): A thin strip of skin adjacent to the nail plate at the base. The cuticle protects the matrix against infections and damage.
  • Hyponichia (Hyponychium): The skin located under the free edge of the nail. Hyponichia also protects the nail bed from infections and damage.

IV.B. The chemical composition of the nail

Nails consist mainly of keratin (about 90%), as well as water (7-12%), lipids, trace elements and other substances.

  • Keratin: Fibrillar protein, which has high strength and resistance to external influences. Keratin molecules are connected by disulfide bonds that give nails strength and hardness.
  • Water: Important for maintaining the elasticity of nails. Dry nails become brittle and prone to stratification.
  • Lipids: They form a protective film on the surface of the nail, preventing moisture loss.
  • Microelements: Zinc, iron, calcium, silicon and other trace elements are necessary for the health of nails. Their deficiency can lead to a deterioration in the condition of the nails.

IV.C. Nail growth

Nails grow constantly, but growth rate depends on various factors, such as age, general health, food and season of the year. The nails in the hands grow faster than the nails on the legs. On average, the nail on the arm grows about 3 mm per month, and the nail on the leg is 1 mm per month. The full update of the nail on the arm takes about 6 months, and on the leg-about 12-18 months.

IV.D. Factors affecting the growth and condition of the nails

The growth and condition of the nails is affected by many factors:

  • Genetics: Determines the shape, thickness and growth rate of nails.
  • Age: With age, the growth of nails slows down, the nails become more brittle and dull.
  • Hormonal background: Hormonal changes associated with pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, as well as thyroid diseases, can affect the condition of the nails.
  • Nutrition: The lack of nutrients, especially protein, iron, zinc, biotin and vitamins, can lead to fragility of nails, the appearance of white spots and a change in the shape of the nails.
  • Diseases: Some diseases, such as anemia, thyroid diseases, psoriasis and fungal infections, can affect the condition of the nails.
  • Medicines: Some drugs, such as chemotherapeutic agents and antibiotics, can cause changes in the state of nails.
  • External factors: The effects of water, chemicals (detergents, solvents), injuries and mechanical damage (shock, cutting of cuticles) can damage the nails.

V. Diseases of the nails

Va onychomycosis (fungal damage to nails)

Onychomycosis is a fungal infection of nails caused by dermatophytes, yeast and mold. It is characterized by a change in the color of the nail (yellowing, whitewashing, darkening), thickening of the nail plate, brittleness, stratification and deformation of the nail.

Vb oniholisis

Onicholysis is a separation of the nail plate from the nail bed. It can be caused by injury, fungal infection, psoriasis, an allergic reaction to nail polish or other chemicals, as well as some drugs.

VC Paronichia

Paronichia is an inflammation of the periolological roller. It can be sharp or chronic. Acute paronichia is usually caused by a bacterial infection caused by injury or burrs. Chronic paronichia is often associated with a fungal infection or irritation caused by the constant effect of water and chemicals.

VD increased nail

An ingrown nail is a growing edge of the nail plate in the soft tissues of the perioline roller. Most often, the thumb affects the thumb. The reason for the growing of the nail may be improper circumcision of nails, wearing tight shoes, injuries or anatomical features of the structure of the nail.

Ve Linii Bo

Bo lines are horizontal recesses passing across the nail plate. They are formed as a result of a temporary cessation of nail growth caused by a disease, stress, injury or drugs.

Vf leukonia

Leukonichia is the appearance of white spots or strips on the nails. It can be true (associated with damage to the matrix of the nail) or false (associated with damage to the surface layers of the nail plate).

VG yellow nails syndrome

The syndrome of yellow nails is a rare disease characterized by thickening and yellowing of nails, lymphatic (edema of lymphatic vessels) and respiratory problems.

VI. Nail care

VI.A. Cutting nails

  • Tools: To cut the nails, you should use sharp nippers or nail scissors.
  • Cutting technique: Cut the nails directly, without rounding the corners to prevent nails. Do not cut the nails too short.
  • Removing the cuticle: It is not recommended to remove the cuticle, as it protects the matrix of the nail from infections. You can gently push the cuticle with a stick from an orange wood after taking a bath or shower when the cuticle becomes soft.

VI.B. Moisture Nogtey and Kutikly

  • Creams and oils: Regular use of creams and oils for nails and cuticles helps moisturize and nourish nails, prevent their brittleness and stratification.
  • Ingredients: Look for creams and oils containing vitamin E, jojoba oil, avocado oil, glycerin and other moisturizing and nutrient ingredients.

VI.C. Nail protection from external factors

  • Gloves: When performing homework or working with chemicals, gloves should be worn to protect the nails from damage.
  • Avoid injuries: Evade of nail injuries should be avoided, as they can lead to nail deformation and the development of diseases.

VI.D. Proper nutrition

  • Protein: Protein is the main building material for nails. It is recommended to eat a sufficient amount of protein in food.
  • Vitamins and minerals: Vitamins A, C, E, B vitamins, zinc, iron, calcium and other trace elements are important for nail health. It is recommended to use a variety of fruits, vegetables and products rich in these nutrients.

VII. Diagnosis and treatment of hair and nail diseases

When any changes in the state of hair or nails appear, such as hair loss, a change in nail color, brittleness, inflammation or pain, you must consult a dermatologist for diagnosis and treatment.

VII.A. Diagnosis of hair diseases

  • Anamnesis: The doctor asks for complaints, the history of the disease, medications, nutrition and lifestyle.
  • Inspection: The doctor examines the scalp and hair, evaluates their condition, density, texture and the presence of signs of inflammation or lesion.
  • Trichoscopy: Study of hair and scalp with a special microscope (trichoscope). Allows you to evaluate the condition of hair follicles, hair rod and scalp.
  • Phototrichogramma: A research method that allows you to assess the hair density, their growth rate and hair ratio in different growth phases.
  • Blood test: It can be prescribed to identify a deficiency of nutrients, hormonal disorders or other diseases affecting the condition of the hair.
  • Scalp biopsy: Taking a small scalp sample for histological examination. It can be prescribed for the diagnosis of cicatricial alopecia and other diseases of the scalp.

VII.B. Treatment of hair diseases

Treatment of hair diseases depends on the cause of the disease.

  • Medication: It may include the use of local drugs (minoxidil, corticosteroids, antifungal agents), as well as systemic drugs (antibiotics, hormonal drugs, immunosuppressors).
  • Physiotherapy: It may include the use of laser therapy, microcurrent therapy, darsonvalization and other methods that stimulate hair growth.
  • Hair transplantation: The surgical method of treatment of androgenic alopecia, in which hair follicles are transplanted from the donor zone to sections of baldness.
  • Change in lifestyle and nutrition: It is important to observe a healthy lifestyle, eat right and avoid stress.

VII.C. Diagnosis of nail diseases

  • Anamnesis: The doctor asks for complaints, medical history, injuries, drugs taken and contact with chemicals.
  • Inspection: The doctor examines the nails, evaluates their condition, color, shape, thickness and the presence of signs of inflammation or lesion.
  • Microscopy of the nail plate: A study of scraping from the nail under a microscope to detect fungi or other microorganisms.
  • Sowing on the fungal flora: Cultivating a scraping from the nail on a nutrient medium to identify fungi and determine their sensitivity to antifungal drugs.
  • Nail plate biopsy: Taking a small -sample of the nail plate for histological examination. It can be prescribed to diagnose certain diseases of the nails.

VII.D. Treatment of nail diseases

Treatment of nail diseases depends on the cause of the disease.

  • Medication: It may include the use of local drugs (antifungal varnishes, creams, solutions, corticosteroids), as well as systemic drugs (antifungal tablets, antibiotics).
  • Surgical treatment: It may include removing the ingrown nail, drainage of the abscess or removal of the affected part of the nail plate.
  • Physiotherapy: It may include the use of laser therapy and other methods that stimulate the growth of a healthy nail.
  • Nail care: It is important to follow the rules of hygiene, correctly cut the nails, moisturize the skin around the nails and avoid injuries.

This article provides a comprehensive overview of hair and nails, covering their anatomy, physiology, common diseases, and proper care. It is structured for easy reading and includes detailed information on each topic. Remember to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment options.

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