hair and nails

Hair and nails: a mirror of health and aesthetic attractiveness

I. Anatomy and physiology of hair

A. Hair structure: Hair, threaded subordinate skin, consists of two main parts: a hair follicle located in the skin and a hair rod protruding above the surface of the skin.

1. Hair follicle: This is a complex structure responsible for hair growth. It consists of several layers:

   a. Hair onion (Bulb): The thickened foundation of a follicle containing a hair papilla rich in blood vessels that feeds growing hair. In the bulb there are cells of the hair matrix, actively dividing and forming new hair cells. Melanocytes, also located in the bulb, produce melanin, pigment that determines the color of the hair.

   b. Hair papilla (Dermal papilla): Connective tissue rich in blood vessels and nerves, located inside the hair onion. He plays a critical role in the regulation of the growth and development of a hair follicle, interacting with the cells of the hair matrix.

   c. Hair root vagina (Root Sheath): Surrounds the hair onion and hair root, supporting it and directing growth. It consists of internal (IRS) and external (ORS) vagina of the root. IRS fit tightly to the hair, and ORS is a continuation of the epidermis.

   d. Sebaceous glands (Sebaceous Glands): They are located near the hair follicles and selected sebum (sebum), an oily substance that lubricates and protects the hair and skin.

   e. Arrector pili muscle): Smooth muscle attached to the hair follicle. With reduction, it raises hair, causing “goose skin.”

2. Hair rod (Hair Shaft): The visible part of the hair protruding above the surface of the skin. It consists of three layers:

   a. Cuticle (Cuticle): The outer protective layer consisting of overlapping cells resembling tiles. The cuticle protects the inner layers of the hair from damage and gives the hair shine. The condition of the cuticle is an indicator of hair health. The damaged cuticle leads to dullness, brittleness and split ends.

   b. Cortex (Cortex): The bulk of the hair consisting of keratin fibers located parallel to each other. The cortical substance determines the strength, elasticity, texture and hair color. It contains melanocytes that determine the color of the hair.

   c. Core (medulla): The inner layer, which is not in all hair. Especially often found in thick hair. The function of the core is not completely studied, but it is assumed that it contributes to the thermal insulation and flexibility of the hair.

B. Chemical composition of the hair: The hair consists mainly of keratin protein, as well as water, lipids, pigments and trace elements.

1. Keratin: Fibrillar protein characterized by high strength and insoluble. It is also the main component of the nails and the upper layer of the skin. Keratin consists of amino acids connected by peptide bonds. The high sulfur content in keratin is due to the presence of cysteine ​​amino acids, which forms disulfide bonds, which give hair strength and elasticity.

2. Water: The water content in the hair affects their elasticity and flexibility. Dehydrated hair becomes brittle and dull.

3. Lipids: The skin is secreted by the sebaceous glands that contain lipids that lubricate and protect the hair. Lipids also help retain moisture in the hair.

4. Pigments (melanin): Melanin, produced by melanocytes in the hair onion, determines the color of the hair. There are two main types of melanin: Eumlanin (dark pigment) and Feomalanin (light pigment). The ratio of these pigments determines the shade of hair. With age, the production of melanin is reduced, which leads to the appearance of gray hair.

5. Microelements: Microelements, such as zinc, iron, copper and selenium, play an important role in hair health. The deficiency of these trace elements can lead to hair loss, brittleness and other problems.

C. Hair growth cycle: Hair growth occurs cyclically and consists of three main phases: anagen, katagen and heterogene.

1. Anagen (growth phase): The longest phase lasts from 2 to 7 years. In this phase, the hair is actively growing. The duration of the anagen determines the length to which the hair can grow. About 85-90% of the hair on the head are in the anagen phase.

2. Katagen (Phase of Transition): A short phase lasting about 2-3 weeks. In this phase, hair growth stops, the hair follicle is reduced, and the hair is disconnected from the hair papilla.

3. Telogen (Phase Salm): The resting phase lasts about 3 months. In this phase, the hair remains in the follicle, but does not grow. About 10-15% of the hair on the head are in the heterogene phase. At the end of the hebogene phase, the hair falls out, and the new phase of the anagen begins.

D. Factors affecting the growth and health of hair: Many factors can affect hair growth and health, including genetics, hormones, nutrition, age, health and external influences.

1. Genetics: A genetic predisposition plays an important role in determining the type of hair, color, thickness and a tendency to loss.

2. Hormones: Hormonal balance has a significant effect on the growth and health of the hair. For example, androgen hormones can cause hair loss by male type. Changes in the hormonal background during pregnancy, after childbirth and during menopause, can also affect the hair.

3. Nutrition: Balanced diet, rich in proteins, vitamins and minerals, is necessary for the health of the hair. The deficiency of nutrients can lead to hair loss, brittleness and other problems.

4. Age: With age, hair growth slows down, hair becomes thinner and can lose color.

5. Health status: Some diseases, such as autoimmune diseases, thyroid diseases and infections, can affect hair health.

6. External influences: The effect of ultraviolet radiation, chemicals (hair dyes, curls), heat treatment (hair dryers, ironing) and mechanical damage (combing, weaving) can damage the hair and lead to fragility and split ends.

II. Anatomy and physiology of nails

A. Nail structure: The nail is a solid, protective plate located on distal phalanxes of the fingers and legs. It consists of keratin, like hair, but keratin in the nails is more solid and dense.

1. Nail plate: The visible part of the nail consisting of layers of keratin cells. The nail plate grows from the nail matrix.

2. Nail Bed: The skin under the nail plate, to which it is tightly attached. The nail bed contains blood vessels that give the nail a pink color.

3. Nail matrix (Nail Matrix): The area under the proximal nail fold, responsible for the growth of the nail. Matrix cells are divided and turned into keratin cells that form a nail plate.

4. Nail Fold): The skin surrounding the nail plate on three sides (proximal and laterally).

5. Cuticle (Cuticle): A thin strip of skin adjacent to the nail plate in the area of ​​the proximal nail roller. The cuticle protects the nail matrix from infections and damage.

6. Punched (Lunula): The whitish semi -moon area at the base of the nail, especially noticeable on the thumbs. Lunul is part of the nail matrix.

7. Free edge of the nail (free edge): Part of the nail plate protruding outside the nail bed.

B. Chemical composition of nails: Nails consist mainly of keratin, as well as water, lipids and minerals.

1. Keratin: Like hair, nails consist of keratin, but keratin in the nails contains more disulfide bonds, which makes it harder and dense.

2. Water: The water content in the nails affects their flexibility and strength.

3. Lipids: Lipids contained in the nails help retain moisture and prevent their drying out.

4. Minerals: Minerals, such as calcium, iron, zinc and selenium, play an important role in the health of nails.

C. Nail growth: Nails grow continuously from the nail matrix. The growth rate of nails depends on many factors, including age, gender, health and nutrition.

1. Factors affecting the growth of nails:

   a. Age: In children and adolescents, nails grow faster than in older people.

   b. Floor: In men, nails usually grow faster than in women.

   c. Health status: Some diseases, such as psoriasis and thyroid diseases, can affect the growth of nails.

   d. Nutrition: A balanced diet, rich in proteins, vitamins and minerals, is necessary for healthy nail growth.

   e. Blood circulation: Good blood circulation in the fingers is necessary for normal nail growth.

   f. Injuries: Injuries of the nail matrix can lead to deformation of nails.

D. Nail functions: Nails perform several important functions:

1. Protection: Nails protect the fingertips from damage and injuries.

2. Improving the grip: Nails help improve the capture of objects.

3. Sensitivity: Nails support the sensitivity of the fingertips, allowing us to feel the texture and temperature of objects.

4. Aesthetics: Nails play an important role in aesthetic attractiveness.

III. Common problems with hair and nails

A. Hair problems:

1. Hair loss (alopecia): There are many types of hair loss, including:

   a. Androgenetic alopecia (hair loss by male/female type): The most common type of hair loss caused by a genetic predisposition and hormonal factors. In men, it manifests itself in the form of thinning of the hair on the crown and temples, and in women – in the form of general thinning of hair.

   b. Focal alopecia: Autoimmune disease characterized by hair loss in the form of rounded foci on the head or other parts of the body.

   c. Telegnum alopecia: Temporary hair loss caused by stress, illness, pregnancy or medication. In this form, there is an increase in the amount of hair located in the heterogene phase.

   d. Traction alopecia: Hair loss caused by constant hair tension, for example, with tight hairstyles or using hair extension.

   e. Rickeeper alopecia: Hair loss caused by scarring of hair follicles. This type of hair loss is irreversible.

2. Dandruff (seborrheic dermatitis): A common condition of the scalp, characterized by peeling, itching and redness. Dandruff can be caused by the malassezia fungus, dry scalp or other factors.

3. Serving ends (trichoptilosis): The breakdown of the ends of the hair caused by damage to the cuticle. Serving ends can be caused by heat treatment, chemical exposure, mechanical damage and dry hair.

4. Breeding hair (trichoclazia): Hair that easily breaks, often due to a lack of moisture, excessive treatment or insufficient nutrition.

5. Dry hair: Hair that is devoid of moisture and look dull, brittle and difficult to comb.

6. Hair fatness: Hair that quickly becomes oily due to excessive production of sebum.

B. Problems with nails:

1. Onychomycosis (fungal nail infection): Nail infection caused by fungi. Onychomycosis can lead to thickening, deformation, yellowing and fragility of nails.

2. Paroniyies: Inflammation of the nail roller, often caused by a bacterial or fungal infection.

3. Involved nail (onychocryptosis): When the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, inflammation and infection.

4. Browneness of nails (onhoshisis): Nails that easily break and delalate, often due to a lack of moisture, exposure to chemicals or insufficient nutrition.

5. BEAU’s Lines:: Horizontal recesses on the nails, which can be caused by disease, injury, stress or medication.

6. White spots on the nails (leikonichia): White spots on the nails, which are often considered a sign of calcium deficiency, but are usually caused by small injuries of the nail.

7. Changing the color of the nails: A change in the color of the nails can indicate various diseases, such as infections, liver or kidney disease.

IV. Diagnosis of hair and nail problems

A. A history of anamnesis: A doctor or a trichologist asks questions about the symptoms, medical history, nutrition, medication and the lifestyle of the patient.

B. Physical examination: A doctor or a trichologist examines the hair, the scalp and nails of the patient to evaluate their condition.

C. Additional research: In some cases, additional studies may be required, such as:

1. Trichoscopy: Using a dermatoscope for a detailed study of hair and scalp.

2. Phototrichogramma: Quantitative assessment of hair growth and hair loss.

3. Hair analysis for trace elements: Determination of the content of trace elements in the hair.

4. Microscopic research of nails: Studying a nail sample under a microscope to identify fungi or other pathologies.

5. Sowing on a fungal infection: Growing fungi from a nail sample to determine the type of fungus and prescribe effective treatment.

6. Biopsy of the scalp or nail: Taking a small sample of the scalp or nail for histological examination.

7. General blood test: To exclude systemic diseases that can affect hair and nails.

V. Treatment and prevention of hair and nail problems

A. Treatment of hair problems:

1. Hair loss:

   a. Minoxidil: An external drug stimulating hair growth.

   b. Finasters: The drug for oral administration, blocking the formation of dihydrotestosterone (DGT), a hormone that causes hair loss according to the male type. (Only for men)

   c. Spironolactone: The drug for oral administration, blocking the effect of androgens. (For women)

   d. Corticosteroids: Preparations used to treat focal alopecia.

   e. Hair transplant: The surgical procedure in which hair follicles are transplanted from areas with thick hair in the area with thinned hair.

   f. Laser therapy: Low -level laser therapy (LLLT) can stimulate hair growth.

   g. Mesotherapy: Injections of vitamins, minerals and other nutrients in the scalp.

   h. PRP therapy (plasmolifting): Injections of plasma tomb -enriched plasma in the scalp to stimulate hair growth.

2. Dandruff:

   a. Therapeutic shampoos: Shampoos containing ketoconazole, zinc pyrithion, selenium sulfide or tar.

   b. Corticosteroids: External corticosteroids can help reduce inflammation and itching.

3. Serving ends and brittle hair:

   a. Regular haircut: Removing split ends.

   b. Moisturizing masks and air conditioners: For moisturizing and restoration of hair.

   c. Avoiding heat treatment: Minimization of the use of hair dryers, ironing and painting.

   d. Sun hair protection: Using hats or hair products with UV filters.

4. Dry hair:

   a. Moisturizing shampoos and air conditioners: For moisturizing hair.

   b. Hair oils: Application of oils to the hair for moisturizing and nutrition.

   c. Hair washing restriction: Frequent hair washing can deprive them of natural oils.

5. Bold hair:

   a. Fat hair shampoos: To remove excess sebum.

   b. Rare hair washing: Washing hair only if necessary.

   c. Avoiding heavy air conditioners: Air conditioners can weight hair and make it more oily.

B. Treatment of problems with nails:

1. Onihomikoz:

   a. Antifungal drugs for oral administration: Terbinafine, itraconazole or fluconazole.

   b. Antifungal varnishes: Cyclopirox or amorolfin.

   c. Laser therapy: It can be used to treat onychomycosis.

2. Paroniyies:

   a. Antibiotics: For the treatment of bacterial infection.

   b. Antifungal drugs: For the treatment of fungal infection.

   c. Warm compresses: To reduce inflammation.

3. Angled nail:

   a. Raising the nail: A neat raising of the edge of the nail and the room under it of a cotton swab.

   b. Surgical removal: Removing part or entire nail.

4. Fitty nails:

   a. Moisturizing creams for hands and nails: For moisturizing and nutrition of nails.

   b. Failure protection from chemicals: The use of gloves when working with detergents and other chemicals.

   c. Avoiding prolonged contact with water: Frequent washing of hands can lead to dry nails.

5. White spots on the nails: Usually do not require treatment.

C. Prevention of problems with hair and nails:

1. Balanced nutrition: The use of products rich in proteins, vitamins and minerals.

2. Sufficient water use: To maintain hydration of hair and nails.

3. Stress restriction: Stress can negatively affect the health of hair and nails.

4. Correct hair care: The use of soft shampoos and air conditioners, avoiding heat treatment and chemical exposure.

5. Proper nail care: Regular trimming of nails, moisturizing hands and nails, protecting nails from chemicals and injuries.

6. Appeal to a doctor or a trichologist: If there are any problems with hair or nails.

VI. Hair and nail health nutrition

A. Protein: Hair and nails consist mainly of keratin protein. Sufficient use of protein is necessary for their growth and strength. Good sources of protein: meat, fish, eggs, dairy products, legumes and nuts.

B. Vitamins:

1. Vitamin A: It is necessary for the growth and health of cells, including cells of hair follicles and nail matrix. Good sources of vitamin A: carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach and pumpkin.

2. B vitamins B: Especially important for the health of hair and nails.

   a. Biotin (Vitamin B7): It is necessary for the production of keratin. Biotin deficiency can lead to hair loss and fragility of nails. Good sources of biotin: eggs, nuts, seeds and whole grains.

   b. Vitamin B12: It is necessary for the formation of red blood cells, which deliver oxygen and nutrients to hair follicles and nail matrix. Good sources of vitamin B12: meat, fish, eggs and dairy products.

3. Vitamin C: An antioxidant that protects the hair and nails from damage caused by free radicals. Vitamin C is also necessary for the production of collagen, which strengthens hair and nails. Good sources of vitamin C: citrus fruits, berries, pepper and broccoli.

4. Vitamin D: Plays an important role in hair growth. Vitamin D deficiency can lead to hair loss. Vitamin D is produced in the skin under the influence of sunlight. Good sources of vitamin D: fatty fish, eggs and enriched products.

5. Vitamin E: An antioxidant that protects the hair and nails from damage caused by free radicals. Vitamin E also improves blood circulation in the scalp and nail bed. Good sources of vitamin E: nuts, seeds, vegetable oils and green leafy vegetables.

C. Minerals:

1. Iron: It is necessary for the formation of red blood cells, which deliver oxygen and nutrients to hair follicles and nail matrix. Iron deficiency can lead to hair loss and fragility of nails. Good sources of iron: red meat, poultry, fish, legumes and green leafy vegetables.

2. Zinc: It is necessary for the growth and restoration of tissues, including hair and nail tissue. Zinc also plays an important role in the immune function. Zinc deficiency can lead to hair loss, fragility of nails and slowing down nail growth. Good sources of zinc: meat, seafood, nuts, seeds and whole grains.

3. Selenium: An antioxidant that protects the hair and nails from damage caused by free radicals. Selenium is also necessary for the normal function of the thyroid gland, which plays an important role in hair growth. Good sources of Selena: Brazilian nuts, seafood, meat and eggs.

4. Silicon: Helps strengthen hair and nails. Good sources of silicon: oats, rice, pepper, cucumbers.

D. Omega-3 fatty acids: Improve the health of the scalp and contribute to hair growth. Good sources of omega-3 fatty acids: fatty fish (salmon, sardines, mackerel), linen seed, chia seeds and walnuts.

E. Water: Enough water consumption is necessary to maintain hydration of hair and nails.

VII. Cosmetic procedures for hair and nails

A. Cosmetic hair procedures:

1. Hair dyeing: Changing hair color using chemical dyes.

2. Hair lightening: Removing the pigment from hair using chemical clarifiers.

3. Perm: Changing the structure of the hair using chemical solutions to create curls or waves.

4. Hair straightening: Changing the structure of the hair using chemical solutions or heat treatment for hair straightening.

5. Hair lamination: Applying a special composition to the hair to give them smoothness, shine and protection.

6. Keratin straightening: Application of keratin composition to the hair with the subsequent straightening of an iron to give them smoothness, brilliance and obedience.

7. Hair extension: Attaching artificial or natural hair to natural hair to increase the length and volume.

B. Cosmetics for nails:

1. Manicure: Caring for the nails of the hands, including giving shape to the nails, removing the cuticle and applying varnish.

2. Pedicure: Failure care of legs, including giving shape to the nails, removing the cuticle and applying varnish.

3. Nail extension: An increase in the length of the nails using acrylic, gel or other materials.

4. Gel-psy (shellac): Applying a special varnish to the nails, which hardens under the influence of ultraviolet radiation and provides long -term coating.

5. Nail design: Decoration of nails using varnish, rhinestones, stickers, drawings and other elements.

VIII. Folk remedies for the health of hair and nails

A. Folk hair products:

1. Hair masks based on vegetable oils: Burdock oil, castor oil, olive oil, coconut oil.

2. Egg masks based on eggs: Eggs are rich in protein and biotin, which are necessary for hair health.

3. Honey -based hair masks: Honey has moisturizing and antibacterial properties.

4. Hair rinsing with herbal decoctions: Decoctions of nettles, chamomile, burdock, oak bark.

B. Folk remedies for nails:

1. Nail baths with sea salt: Sea salt strengthens the nails and promotes their growth.

2. Baths for nails with lemon juice: Lemon juice whitens the nails and strengthens them.

3. Massage of the nail bed with vegetable oils: The oils moisturize the nails and improve blood circulation.

4. Nail compresses with herbal decoctions: Decoctions of chamomile, calendula.

IX. The value of a healthy lifestyle for hair and nails

A. Dream: A sufficient sleep is necessary to restore tissues and the normal functioning of the body, including hair and nail growth.

B. Physical activity: Improves blood circulation and ensures the delivery of nutrients to hair follicles and nail matrix.

C. Stress management: Stress can negatively affect the health of hair and nails. It is important to learn how to effectively manage stress using relaxation, meditation or other techniques.

D. Refusal of smoking: Smoking worsens blood circulation and can lead to hair loss and fragility of nails.

E. Alcohol use restriction: Excessive alcohol consumption can negatively affect the health of hair and nails.

F. Environmental protection: Protection of hair and nails from ultraviolet radiation, air pollution and other harmful environmental factors.

X. Conclusion: the key to health and beauty

Hair and nail care is not only an aesthetic procedure, but also an important part of maintaining health. Understanding the anatomy and physiology of hair and nails, knowledge of common problems and ways to solve them, as well as observing a healthy lifestyle will help maintain their beauty and health for many years. Regular care, balanced diet and timely contacting a specialist in case of problems – the key to healthy and beautiful hair and nails.