hair and nails in women

Women’s hair and nails: a full guide for health, care and aesthetics

I. Anatomy and physiology of hair and nails

A. Hair

1. Hair structure: The hair consists of two main parts: hair follicle (located in the skin) and hair rod (visible part).

   • Hair follicle: This is a recess in the skin, from where the hair grows. In the lower part of the follicle there is a hair follicle containing cells that are actively divided and forming new hair.
   • Hair onion: It contains a dermal papilla consisting of connective tissue, blood vessels and nerves that provide nutrition and regulation of hair growth.
   • Hair rod: It consists of three layers: cuticles, cortex and medulla.
     • Cuticle: The outer layer, consisting of the overlapping scales of keratin, protects the inner layers of the hair. Damage to the cuticle leads to dullness, brittleness and split ends.
     • Cortex: The main layer of hair containing keratin protein, which determines the strength, elasticity and color of the hair.
     • Medulla: The inner layer is not present in all hair, especially in thin hair. The functions of the honey are not fully studied.

2. Hair growth: Hair growth occurs cyclically and consists of three phases:

   • Anagen (growth phase): The longest phase that lasts from 2 to 7 years. During this phase, the cells of the hair follicle are actively divided, and the hair grows by about 1-1.5 cm per month.
   • Katagen (Phase of Transition): A short phase that lasts about 2-3 weeks. During this phase, hair growth slows down, and the hair follicle decreases.
   • Telogen (Phase Salm): The phase that lasts about 3 months. During this phase, the hair does not grow and remains in the follicle until it is pushed out with a new growing hair.

3. Hair types: The type of hair is determined by the shape of a hair follicle and the amount of skin fat produced by the sebaceous glands. The main types of hair:

   • Normal hair: A balanced amount of skin fat, shiny, elastic and easily combed.
   • Dry hair: An insufficient amount of skin fat, dull, brittle and difficult to comb.
   • Bold hair: Excessive amount of skin fat, quickly become dirty and look oily.
   • Mixed hair type: Fat at the roots and dry at the ends.
   • Thin hair: Small hair diameter, often devoid of volume.
   • Thick hair: Large hair diameter, thicker and dense.
   • Straight hair: Hair that grows right from roots to tips.
   • Wavy hair: Hair with light waves.
   • Curly hair: Hair with pronounced curls or curls.

4. Hair functions:

   • Protection: Hair protect the scalp from solar radiation, hypothermia and mechanical damage.
   • Temperature regulation: Hair helps adjust body temperature, holding heat in cold weather.
   • Sensitivity: Hair is associated with nerve endings, which allows you to feel light touch.
   • Aesthetic function: Hair play an important role in the formation of appearance and self -esteem.

B. Nogti

1. Nail structure: The nail consists of several parts:

   • Nail plate: The visible part of the nail consists of tightly packed keratin cells.
   • Nail bed: The skin under the nail plate to which the nail is attached.
   • Nail matrix: The area under the cuticle, where new nail cells are formed.
   • Cuticle: A thin strip of skin that protects the matrix from infections and damage.
   • Lunked: The whitish semi -moon area at the base of the nail, part of the matrix.
   • Nail rollers: Skin folds on the sides and at the base of the nail.
   • Free land: Part of the nail plate protruding outside the edge of the finger.

2. Nail growth: Nails grow continuously, but slower than hair. The growth rate of nails depends on the age, state of health, nutrition and season. On average, the nails on the hands grow about 3 mm per month, and the nails on the legs are about 1 mm per month.

3. Nail types: The type of nails is determined by their shape, strength and tendency to problems.

   • Normal nails: Smooth, even, durable and healthy color.
   • Dry nails: Brittle, thin, prone to stratification and cracks.
   • Fat nails: Soft, flexible and prone to infections.
   • Weak nails: Easy to break and delax.
   • Thick nails: Thickened, often deformed, can be a sign of fungal infection.

4. Nail functions:

   • Protection: Nails protect the fingertips from injuries and damage.
   • Improvement: Nails help improve the capture of small objects.
   • Sensitivity: Nails support the sensitivity of the fingertips.
   • Aesthetic function: Nails play an important role in the formation of appearance and self -esteem.

II. Hair and nail health: factors that affect the maintenance methods

A. The influence of internal factors

1. Genetics: A genetic predisposition plays a significant role in determining the type of hair and nails, their growth rate, strength and tendency to certain problems.
2. Hormonal balance: Hormones have a significant impact on the growth and condition of the hair and nails.
   • Estrogen: Supports hair and nail growth, makes it stronger and shiny. A decrease in estrogen levels during menopause or after childbirth can lead to hair loss and fragility of nails.
   • Androgens: Male sex hormones, such as testosterone, can cause hair loss by male type (androgenic alopecia) in women with a genetic predisposition.
   • Thyroid gland: The thyroid hormones regulate the metabolism, affecting the height and condition of the hair and nails. Hypothyroidism (decreased function of the thyroid gland) can lead to dryness, fragility of hair and nails, as well as to hair loss.
3. Age: With age, hair and nail growth slows down, the hair becomes thinner and gray, and the nails become more fragile and prone to stratification.
4. Nutrition: A balanced diet, rich in vitamins, minerals and proteins, is necessary for the health of hair and nails.
   • Protein: Keratin, the main building material of hair and nails, consists of amino acids obtained from protein. The lack of protein in the diet can lead to weakness and fragility of hair and nails.
   • Iron: Iron deficiency can cause hair loss and fragility of nails.
   • Zinc: It is important for the growth and restoration of hair and nail cells. Zinc deficiency can lead to hair loss and the appearance of white spots on the nails.
   • Biotin (Vitamin B7): It is necessary for the health of hair and nails. Biotin deficiency is rare, but can cause hair loss and fragility of nails.
   • Vitamin D: He plays a role in hair growth and bone tissue. Vitamin D deficiency can be associated with hair loss.
   • Vitamin C: It is necessary for the synthesis of collagen, which is important for the strength of hair and nails.
   • Vitamin E: An antioxidant that protects the cells from damage by free radicals.
   • Omega-3 fatty acids: Improve the condition of the scalp and hair, making them more shiny and moisturized.
5. Health status: Some diseases and conditions can affect the health of hair and nails.
   • Autoimmune diseases: Such as the alopecia of the area and psoriasis can cause hair loss and nail deformation.
   • Infectious diseases: Fungal infections of the scalp and nails can lead to hair loss and a change in the appearance of the nails.
   • Thyroid diseases: Hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can cause hair loss and fragility of nails.
   • Chronic diseases: Such as diabetes and kidney diseases can affect the height and condition of the hair and nails.
   • Stress: Chronic stress can lead to hair loss (heterogene alopecia) and the appearance of white lines on the nails (Bo line).
6. Taking drugs: Some drugs can cause side effects, such as hair loss and a change in the appearance of nails.
   • Chemotherapy: It can cause temporary hair loss.
   • Anticoagulants: They can cause fragility of nails.
   • Beta blockers: They can cause hair loss.
   • Antidepressants: They can cause dry hair and brittle hair.

B. The influence of external factors

1. Hair care: Incorrect hair care can lead to damage and loss.
   • Excessive washing: Too frequent hair washing can deprive them of natural oils and make them dry and brittle.
   • Using aggressive shampoos: Shampoos containing sulfates and other aggressive ingredients can damage hair.
   • Hot water: Washing hair with hot water can damage the cuticle and make the hair dull and brittle.
   • Using a hair dryer and ironing: Frequent use of a hair dryer, ironing and other thermal devices can damage hair.
   • Chemical processing: Coloring, lightening, chemical curls and hair straightening can damage the hair structure and make it brittle.
   • Incorrect combing: Combing wet hair can lead to damage and loss.
   • Tight hairstyles: Tight hairstyles, such as braids and tails, can exert pressure on the hair follicles and lead to hair loss.
2. Nail care: Incorrect nail care can lead to damage and infections.
   • Aggressive varnish removal: Lark removal products containing acetone can dry and damage nails.
   • Using artificial nails: Frequent use of artificial nails can damage natural nails.
   • Nail bite: Biting of nails can lead to infections and nail deformation.
   • Incorrect nail trimming: Cutting of nails is too short or incorrectly leading to a nail growing.
   • Damage to the cuticle: Cutting or pushing the cuticle can increase the risk of infection.
3. Environment: Environmental factors can have a negative effect on the health of hair and nails.
   • Solar radiation: Ultraviolet radiation can damage hair and nails, making it dry and brittle.
   • Air pollution: Air pollution can have a negative effect on the scalp and hair.
   • Cold air: Cold air can dry hair and nails.
   • Chlorine water: Swimming in chlorinated water can dry hair and nails.
4. Professional factors: Work associated with the effects of chemicals, water or injuries can negatively affect the condition of the hair and nails.

C. Methods of maintaining hair and nails health

1. Balanced nutrition: The use of products rich in protein, iron, zinc, biotin, vitamins and omega-3 fatty acids is necessary for the health of hair and nails.
2. Correct hair care:
   • Washing hair as necessary: It is not recommended to wash your hair too often.
   • Using soft shampoos: Choose shampoos that do not contain sulfates and other aggressive ingredients.
   • Using air conditioning: The air conditioner helps to moisturize and smooth the hair.
   • Restriction on the use of a hairdryer and ironing: Try to dry your hair naturally and use thermal devices as rarely as possible.
   • Sun hair protection: Use sun -wields for hair or wear a headdress in sunny weather.
   • Regular haircut of the ends: Regular haircut of the ends helps to prevent the appearance of split ends.
   • Delicate combing: Comb the hair carefully, starting from the tips and gradually rising to the roots.
3. Proper nail care:
   • Moisturization of nails and use: Regularly moisturize the nails and cuticle with cream or oil.
   • Using soft varnish remedies: Choose varnish remedies that do not contain acetone.
   • Limiting the use of artificial nails: Try to use artificial nails as little as possible.
   • Proper trimming of nails: Cut the nails straight, avoiding the rounding of the corners.
   • Avoid cutting cuticle: Move the cuticle carefully using special tools.
   • Wearing gloves: Wear gloves when performing work associated with the effects of water or chemicals.
4. Stress management: Try to avoid stressful situations and use relaxation methods such as yoga, meditation or breathing exercises.
5. Healthy lifestyle: Refusal of smoking and drinking alcohol, sufficient sleep and regular physical exercises contribute to the health of hair and nails.
6. Consultation with a specialist: If problems with hair or nails occur, it is recommended to contact a trichologist or dermatologist for diagnosis and treatment.

III. Common problems with hair and nails in women

A. Hair problems

1. Hair loss (alopecia):
   • Androgenic alopecia: Hair loss by male type, associated with a genetic predisposition and exposure to androgens.
   • Telegnum alopecia: Temporary hair loss caused by stress, pregnancy, medication or other factors.
   • Alopecia areata: Autoimmune disease causing focal hair loss.
   • Diffuse hair loss: Uniform hair loss throughout the head can be caused by various factors, such as iron deficiency, thyroid disease, or medication.
2. Brighten hair: Hair becomes dry, dull and easily break. It can be caused by improper care, thermal damage or a lack of nutrients.
3. Serving tips: The stratification of the ends of the hair caused by damage to the cuticle.
4. Dandruff (seborrheic dermatitis): Peeling of the scalp, accompanied by itching. It can be caused by a fungal infection, stress or other factors.
5. Hair fatness: Excessive amount of skin fat on the scalp, making hair oily and dirty.
6. Dry hair: An insufficient amount of skin fat on the scalp, making the hair dry, dull and brittle.
7. Gray hair: Loss of hair pigmentation associated with age or genetic predisposition.
8. Trichotillomania: A mental disorder characterized by intrusive hair pulling out.

B. Problems with nails

1. Browneness of nails (onhoshisis): The nails become thin, fragile and easily break. It can be caused by improper care, a deficiency of nutrients or diseases.
2. Nail stratification (onycholysis): Separation of the nail plate from the nail bed. It can be caused by injury, infection or diseases.
3. White spots on the nails (leikonichia): The appearance of white spots or strips on the nails. It can be caused by injury, zinc deficiency or other factors.
4. Changing the color of the nails: Nails can change color depending on the cause.
   • Yellow nails: Can be caused by a fungal infection, smoking or diseases.
   • Green nails: Usually caused by a bacterial infection (Pseudomonas).
   • Black nails: Can be caused by injury, fungal infection or medication.
5. Thickening of nails (onychogrifosis): Nails become thickened, deformed and solid. Often occurs on the nails of the legs and can be caused by injury, fungal infection or age -related changes.
6. Survival of the nail (onychocryptosis): Growing the edge of the nail in the soft tissues of the finger, causing pain and inflammation.
7. Nail fungal infection (onychomycosis): Nail infection caused by fungi. Leads to a change in color, thickening and deformation of nails.
8. Transverse lines on the nails (line BO): Horizontal recesses on the nails, which can be caused by stress, diseases or injuries.
9. Longitudinal lines on the nails: Vertical lines on the nails, which are usually a normal sign of aging, but can also indicate a deficiency of nutrients.
10. Paroniyies: Skin infection around the nail. It can be acute (caused by bacteria) or chronic (caused by fungi or other factors).

IV. Diagnosis and treatment of problems with hair and nails

A. Diagnostics

1. Anamnesis: Collection of information about the patient’s complaints, the medical history, medication, diet and lifestyle.
2. Inspection: Visual examination of hair and nails to assess their condition and identify signs of diseases.
3. Trichoscopy: The study of the scalp and hair using a special device is a trichoscope.
4. Dermatoscopy: Study of nails with a dermatoscope.
5. Blood tests: A general blood test, a biochemical blood test (for assessing the level of iron, zinc, vitamins and hormones).
6. Microscopic examination: The study of hair or nail samples under a microscope to detect a fungal infection.
7. Cultural research: Sowing of nail samples on a nutrient medium to detect a fungal infection.
8. Scalp biopsy: Taking a small scalp sample for histological examination (with suspected autoimmune diseases).

B. Treatment

1. Hair loss treatment:
   • Minoxidil: Local remedy that stimulates hair growth.
   • Finasters: The oral drug that blocks the effect of androgens (only for women in postmenopause).
   • Corticosteroids: Local or systemic drugs used to treat the alopecia of the area.
   • Mesotherapy: Injections of vitamins, minerals and other nutrients in the scalp.
   • PRP therapy (plasmolifting): Injections of the patient’s own plasma enriched with platelets into the scalp.
   • Hair transplant: Surgical method of hair restoration.
2. Treatment of brittle hair:
   • Moisturizing and nutritious hair masks: Contain oils, proteins and other ingredients that help restore hair structure.
   • Avoiding thermal damage: Limiting the use of a hairdryer, ironing and other thermal devices.
   • Regular haircut of the ends: Removing split ends.
   • Proper nutrition: The use of products rich in protein, vitamins and minerals.
3. Dandruff treatment:
   • Shampoos against dandruff: Contain antifungal components such as ketoconazole, selenium sulfide or zinc pyrithion.
   • Corticosteroids: Local drugs used to reduce inflammation.
4. Hair fat treatment:
   • Fat hair shampoos: They contain components that help remove excess sebum.
   • Rare hair washing: Washing hair too often can stimulate the production of sebum.
   • Using dry shampoos: Dry shampoos help to absorb the excess sebum.
5. Dry hair treatment:
   • Moisturizing shampoos and air conditioners: Contain oil and other ingredients that help moisturize hair.
   • Hair masks: Moisturizing hair masks.
   • Restriction on the use of a hairdryer and ironing: Avoiding thermal damage.
6. Treatment of fragility of nails:
   • Moisturizing creams and nail oils: Regular moisturizing nails and cuticles.
   • Biotin: Reception of biotin as a food supplement.
   • Avoiding aggressive chemicals: Wearing gloves in contact with water and chemicals.
7. Treatment of nail stratification:
   • Nail glue: The use of nail glue for temporary gluing layers of the nail plate.
   • Avoiding injuries: Prevention of nail injuries.
8. Treatment of fungal nail infection:
   • Local antifungal drugs: Creams, varnishes and gels containing antifungal components.
   • Octus antifungal drugs: Tablets containing antifungal components.
   • Removing the affected nail: Surgical or chemical removal of the affected nail.
9. Treatment of nail growing:
   • Raising the edge of the nail: Putting a cotton ball or tooth thread to the edge of the nail in order to raise it and prevent a growing.
   • Removing part of the nail: Surgical removal of part of the nail, growing into soft tissues.
   • Full removal of the nail: In severe cases, a complete removal of the nail may be required.
10. Paronichia treatment:
    • Antibiotics: With a bacterial infection.
    • Antifungal drugs: With a fungal infection.
    • Surgical drainage: In cases of abscess.

V. Cosmetic procedures for hair and nails

A. Hair procedures

1. Hair dyeing: Changing hair color with chemical dyes.
   • Permanent staining: It provides persistent color, but can damage the hair.
   • Semi -permanent staining: It does not contain ammonia and hydrogen peroxide, less harmful to hair, but less resistant.
   • Toning: Temporary coloring of the hair, which is washed off after a few shake of the head.
   • Highlighting: Coloring individual strands of hair.
   • Balayage: Coloring hair with a smooth transition from dark roots to light tips.
2. Hair straightening: Changing the structure of the hair to give them smoothness and directness.
   • Chemical straightening: The use of chemicals to destroy disulfide bonds in the hair.
   • Keratin straightening: Application of keratin to the hair with subsequent processing with an iron.
   • Thermal straightening: Using an iron to straighten hair.
3. Hair curl: Changing the structure of the hair to give them wave or curls.
   • Perm: The use of chemicals to change the structure of the hair.
   • Organic: Hair curls using more gentle compositions.
   • Thermal curls: Using curves or curlers for curling hair.
4. Hair lamination: Hair coating with a special composition creating a protective film that gives the hair shine and smoothness.
5. Botox for hair: The procedure for restoring damaged hair using special compounds containing amino acids, vitamins and other nutrients.

B. Nail procedures

1. Manicure: The cosmetic procedure for the care of the nails of the hands.
   • Classic manicure: Cutting cuticle and giving shape to the nails.
   • Hardware manicure: Using a special device with nozzles for processing cuticle and nails.
   • European manicure: Bezbrobnaya manicure, in which the cuticle is not cut, but is pushed away by a special tool.
   • French manicure: Coating of nail varnish on the tip and pink or beige on the rest of the surface.
2. Pedicure: Cosmetic procedure for nail care.
   • Classic pedicure: Cutting cuticle and giving shape to the nails.
   • Hardware pedicure: Using a special device with nozzles for processing cuticle and nails.
   • Medical pedicure: Pedicure performed by a medical specialist to solve problems with nails and skin of the feet.
3. Nail extension: Lengthening and strengthening of nails using artificial materials.
   • Gel growth: Using a gel for nail extension.
   • Acrylic extensions: Using acrylic to build nails.
4. Coating nails with gel polish: The durable coating of the nails with varnish, which hardens under the influence of an ultraviolet lamp.
5. Nail design: Yerving nails using various techniques and materials such as varnish, rhinestones, stickers and drawings.

VI. Home remedies and recipes for hair and nail care

A. Home hair products

1. Egg yolk mask: The yolk contains lecithin and protein that nourish and strengthen the hair. Mix the yolk with a small amount of olive oil and apply to the hair for 20-30 minutes.
2. Avocado mask: Avocado is rich in fatty acids and vitamins that moisturize and restore hair. Mash the avocado and apply to the hair for 30 minutes.
3. Olive oil mask: Olive oil moisturizes and nourishes hair, making it shiny and smooth. Apply warm olive oil to the hair for 30 minutes.
4. Coconut oil mask: Coconut oil penetrates the hair structure, strengthening it and preventing brittleness. Apply coconut oil to the hair for 30 minutes.
5. Hair rinsing apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar helps restore the pH balance of the scalp and gives the hair shine. Dilute apple vinegar with water (1: 1) and rinse your hair after washing.
6. Camomile tea: Chamomile soothes the scalp and gives the hair a light shade. Pour the chamomile with boiling water and let it brew, then rinse your hair after washing.
7. Lemon juice: Lemon juice gives the hair shine and brightens them. Dilute lemon juice with water (1: 1) and apply to the hair for 30 minutes before washing.

B. Home tools for nails

1. Bath with olive oil: Olive oil nourishes and strengthens the nails, making them less brittle. Dear the nails in warm olive oil for 10-15 minutes.
2. Bath with lemon juice: Lemon juice whitens the nails and strengthens them. Dear the nails in lemon juice for 5-10 minutes.
3. Bath with sea salt: Sea salt strengthens the nails and prevents their stratification. Dissolve sea salt in warm water and immerse the nails in the bath for 10-15 minutes.
4. Oil for cuticles made of olive oil and vitamin E: Mix olive oil with several vitamin E capsules and apply to the cuticle every day.
5. Nail mask made of honey and lemon juice: Mix honey and lemon juice and apply on the nails for 10-15 minutes.
6. Coconut oil: Application of coconut oil on the nails helps to moisturize and strengthen them.
7. Aloe Vera juice: Applying aloe vera juice to the nails helps to moisturize and strengthen them, and also helps heal minor damage.

VII. Myths and facts about hair and nails

1. Myth: Frequent shaving makes hair thicker.
   • Fact: Writing does not affect the thickness of the hair, but only cuts it at the skin level.
2. Myth: Hair haircut accelerates their growth.
   • Fact: The haircut does not affect the speed of hair growth, but only removes damaged ends.
3. Myth: The sun is useful for hair.
   • Fact: Long -term exposure to solar radiation can damage the hair, making it dry and brittle.
4. Myth: Nails should “breathe”.
   • Fact: But