hair and nails

Part 1: Hair structure and physiology

1. Hair components:

   • Follicul: The main production body of the hair located in the dermis. Its depth varies depending on the skin. The follicle forms the root of the hair and provides its nutrition. The morphology of the follicle, including its shape and orientation, determines the texture of the hair (straight, wavy, curly). The follicle also contains sebaceous glands producing sebum, which moisturizes the hair and scalp. Over time, follicles can decrease in the amount, which leads to thinning of the hair. The hair growth cycle begins and ends in the follicle. Immune cells in the follicle play a role in regulating hair growth and preventing autoimmune attacks on hair.

   • Hair root: A living part of the hair located inside the follicle. It consists of dividing cells that form a hair rod. Blood vessels are suitable for the hair, providing it with nutrients and oxygen. Melanocytes in the root of the hair produce melanin, a pigment that determines the color of the hair. The activity of enzymes, such as tyrosinase, affects the production of melanin. Different types of melanin (Eumlanin and Feomlanin) determine the shade of the hair.

   • Hair rod: The visible part of the hair consisting of keratinized dead cells. It does not have nerve endings or blood vessels. It consists of three main layers: cuticles, bark and core (brain substance). The diameter of the hair rod varies depending on the type of hair (thin, medium, thick). Damage to the hair rod, such as split ends, are associated with the destruction of the cuticle.

   • Cuticle: The outer layer of the hair rod consisting of overlapping scales resembling tiles. Protects hair bark from damage. Determines the shine and smoothness of the hair. Damage to the cuticle makes the hair porous and prone to tangling. Chemical treatment, such as staining and chemical curl, damages the cuticle.

   • Peel: The thickest layer of hair rod located under the cuticle. Contains melanin, which determines the color of the hair. Gives hair strength and elasticity. Damage to the bark leads to brittleness and weakening of the hair. Keratin proteins in the bark of the hair form spiral structures that give the hair elasticity.

   • Brain substance (medulla): The inner layer of the hair rod, which is not in all types of hair. Consists of loose keratinized cells and air cavities. Its function is not completely studied, but presumably provides additional isolation and rigidity of the hair. Often absent in thin hair.

2. Hair growth cycle:

   • Anagen (growth phase): The longest phase lasts from 2 to 7 years. In this phase, the root of the hair is actively divided and forms a new hair rod. The length of the anagen determines the maximum hair length. The duration of the anagen is influenced by genetic factors, hormones and general health. On average, hair grows by about 1 cm per month.

   • Katagen (transition phase): It lasts about 2-3 weeks. Hair growth slows down, and the follicle decreases in size. The root of the hair is disconnected from the blood vessels feeding it. The production of melanin stops.

   • Telogen (Phase Salm): It lasts about 3 months. The hair remains in the follicle, but does not grow. The old hair is gradually pushed out by a new, growing hair. Normally, about 10-15% of the hair are in the heterogene phase. Increased hair loss may be associated with an increase in the number of hair in the heterogene phase (heterogene loss).

   • Exogen (falling phase): Continuation of the heterogene phase when the hair falls out of the follicle. Usually it falls from 50 to 100 hair per day. This process is natural and should not cause anxiety if it is not accompanied by significant thinning of the hair.

3. Hair types:

   • Normal hair: Balanced moisture and skin fat. Shiny, smooth and easily combed. Not prone to dryness or fat content.

   • Dry hair: Lack of moisture and skin fat. Dull, brittle and prone to confusion. Can be damaged by chemical treatment or environmental exposure.

   • Bold hair: Excessive production of sebum. They quickly become dirty and sticky. They may look dull and lifeless. Often associated with hormonal changes or genetic predisposition.

   • Combined hair: Fat at the roots and dry at the ends. They require special care aimed at balancing the level of moisture and skin fat.

   • Thin hair: They have a small diameter of the hair rod. Easy to fit, but can be prone to confusion and do not hold volume.

   • Thick hair: They have a large diameter of the hair rod. More durable and resistant to damage. Can be difficult to styling.

   • Straight hair: The hair rod grows directly from the follicle. Smooth and brilliant.

   • Wavy hair: They have a S-shaped shape. Require moisture and care to prevent confusion.

   • Curly hair: They have a spiral shape. Very dry and need intensive moisture. Prone to brittleness and confusion.

4. Factors affecting the growth and health of hair:

   • Genetics: A genetic predisposition plays a key role in determining the type of hair, growth rate and a tendency to loss. Heredity determines the shape of the follicle, the amount of melanin and the duration of the anagen phase.

   • Hormones: Hormones, such as testosterone, estrogen and thyroid hormones, have a significant effect on the growth and health of the hair. The imbalance of hormones can lead to hair loss, a change in texture and hair color. Androgenic alopecia (baldness according to the male type) is associated with increased sensitivity of follicles to dihydrotestosterone (DGT).

   • Nutrition: A balanced diet, rich in proteins, vitamins and minerals, is necessary for healthy hair growth. The deficiency of iron, zinc, biotin and other nutrients can lead to hair loss and worsening their quality.

   • Stress: Chronic stress can negatively affect hair growth and lead to heterogeneous loss. Stress can violate the hormonal balance and weaken the immune system.

   • Diseases: Some diseases, such as autoimmune diseases, thyroid diseases and skin diseases, can cause hair loss. Treatment of these diseases can improve hair growth.

   • Medicines: Some drugs, such as chemotherapeutic drugs, antidepressants and anticoagulants, can cause hair loss. Discuss with the doctor possible side effects of drugs on the hair.

   • Age: With age, hair growth slows down, and the hair becomes thinner and less pigmented. Follicles of the hair are reduced in size, and the production of melanin is reduced.

   • Hair care: Incorrect hair care, such as the frequent use of thermal tools, aggressive chemicals and tight hairstyles, can damage the hair and lead to their fragility and loss. Use soft shampoos and air conditioners, avoid excessive heating and choose hairstyles that do not pull the hair.

Part 2: Hair and scalp diseases

1. Alopecia (hair loss):

   • Androgenic alopecia (baldness according to the male type/baldness according to the female type): The most common type of hair loss associated with a genetic predisposition and hormonal factors. In men, it usually begins with the thinning of hair in the forehead and temples, and then spreads to the crown. In women, it usually manifests itself in the form of diffuse thinning of hair throughout the head. Treatment includes the use of minoxidil and finsteride (only for men).

   • Focal alopecia: Autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the hair follicles, leading to the appearance of rounded foci of hair loss. It can affect any part of the body, including the scalp, eyebrows and eyelashes. Treatment includes the use of corticosteroids (local or systematically), immunotherapy and other methods.

   • Telogene loss: Hair loss associated with an increase in the number of hair located in the heterogene phase. It can be caused by stress, pregnancy, diseases, drugs or a deficiency of nutrients. Usually passes independently after eliminating the cause.

   • Traction alopecia: Hair loss caused by constant hair tension, for example, when wearing tight hairstyles (pigtails, bundles, dreadlocks). Prevention consists in avoiding tight hairstyles and using soft styling products.

   • Rickeeper alopecia: Hair loss caused by the destruction of hair follicles and replacing them with cicatricial fabric. It can be caused by inflammatory diseases, infections or injuries. Treatment is aimed at preventing further damage to follicles.

2. Scalp infections:

   • Seborrheic dermatitis: A common inflammatory disease of the scalp, characterized by redness, peeling and itching. It is caused by excess growth of malassezia fungus. Treatment includes the use of antifungal shampoos (ketoconazole, selenium sulfide) and corticosteroid creams.

   • Psoriasis of the scalp: Chronic autoimmune skin disease characterized by the appearance of red, peeling plaques on the scalp. Treatment includes the use of corticosteroid ointments and shampoos, tar shampoos and phototherapy.

   • Tinea Capitis: A fungal scalp infection, causing the appearance of itching, peeling foci of hair loss. It is more common in children. Treatment includes the use of antifungal drugs inward.

   • Folliculite: Inflammation of the hair follicles caused by a bacterial or fungal infection. It manifests itself in the form of red, pustular rashes around the hair follicles. Treatment includes the use of antibiotics or antifungal creams.

3. Other scalp problems:

   • Dandruff: A common condition of the scalp, characterized by the appearance of white or yellowish scales. It can be caused by dry scalp, seborrheic dermatitis or fungal infection. Treatment includes the use of shampoos against dandruff (zinc pyrithion, selenium sulfide, ketoconazole).

   • Itching of the scalp: It can be caused by various causes, including dry scalp, dandruff, allergic reactions, skin diseases and infections. Treatment depends on the cause of the itching.

   • Lice: A parasitic disease of the scalp that causes itching and irritation. Treatment includes the use of special shampoos and lice lotions.

Part 3: Hair Care

1. Washing hair:

   • Choosing shampoo: Choose a shampoo corresponding to your hair type. Dry hair needs moisturizing shampoos, oily hair in shampoo for oily hair, and dyed hair in shampoo for dyed hair. Avoid shampoos with aggressive sulfates that can dry hair.

   • Washing technique: Hardly soak your hair with warm water. Apply a small amount of shampoo to the scalp and massage your fingers. Rinse the shampoo with warm water. Repeat the procedure if necessary.

   • Washing frequency: The frequency of washing the hair depends on the type of hair and lifestyle. Bold hair may need daily washing, and dry hair – in washing 2-3 times a week.

2. Hair conditioning:

   • Air conditioner choice: Choose an air conditioner corresponding to your hair type. The air conditioner helps moisturize the hair, smooth the cuticle and facilitate combing.

   • Application technique: Apply the air conditioner to wet hair, retreating from the roots. Leave for 2-3 minutes, then rinse thoroughly.

   • Hair masks: Hair masks provide intensive moisturizing and hair nutrition. Use hair masks 1-2 times a week.

3. Hair drying:

   • Natural drying: The best way of drying hair is natural drying in the air. This helps prevent hair damage from high temperatures.

   • Using a hair dryer: If you use a hair dryer, use it at a low heating level and keep it at a distance of at least 15 cm from the hair. Use the Diffushes nozzle to reduce hair damage.

   • Use of towel: Do not try your hair with a towel, as this can damage the cuticle. Gently get your hair with a towel to remove excess water.

4. Combing hair:

   • CHOSE CHIED: Choose a comb with wide teeth for combing wet hair. Use a comb with natural bristles for combing dry hair.

   • Combing technique: Start combing your hair from the tips, gradually rising to the roots. Do not pull and do not tear your hair.

5. Hair styling:

   • Thermal protection: Before using thermal tools (ironing, curling iron, tongs), apply a thermal protection product to the hair. This will help protect the hair from damage.

   • Using styling tools: Use styling products (hair varnish, gel, mousse) in moderate quantities. Excessive use of styling products can make hair dim and sticky.

   • Avoid tight hairstyles: Wearing tight hairstyles (pigtails, bundles, dreadlocks) can lead to traction alopecia. Choose hairstyles that do not pull your hair.

6. Sun hair protection:

   • Using a hat or scarf: Wear a hat or scarf to protect your hair from straight sunlight.

   • Using the Sun protection products: Use hair care products with SPF.

7. Proper nutrition for hair health:

   • Protein: Protein is a building material for hair. Use a sufficient amount of protein from sources such as meat, fish, eggs, legumes and nuts.

   • Iron: Iron deficiency can lead to hair loss. Use products rich in iron, such as red meat, spinach and lentils.

   • Zinc: Zinc is necessary for tissue growth and restoration, including hair. Use products rich in zinc, such as oysters, beef and pumpkin seeds.

   • Biotin: Biotin is a vitamin of group B, which plays an important role in hair health. Use products rich in biotin, such as eggs, nuts and seeds.

   • Vitamin D: Vitamin D deficiency can be associated with hair loss. Get a sufficient amount of vitamin D from sunlight, food or additives.

   • Omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3 fatty acids help maintain the health of the scalp and hair. Use products rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as fatty fish, linen seeds and walnuts.

Part 4: Structure and physiology of the nails

1. Nail components:

   • Nail plate: The visible part of the nail consisting of keratinized dead cells. Protects fingers and allows you to perform thin manipulations. It consists of three layers: dorsal, intermediate and ventral. The thickness of the nail plate varies depending on the finger and age. The nail plate is porous and can absorb water and other substances.

   • Nail bed: The skin under the nail plate. Contains blood vessels that provide nutrition of the nail plate. Attracts the nail plate to the finger. The irregularities of the nail bed can appear on the nail plate.

   • Nail matrix: The area under the proximal nail roller, where new cells of the nail plate occurs. The most important part of the nail, since damage to the matrix can lead to deformation of the nail. The growth rate of the nail depends on the activity of the matrix cells.

   • Lunked: Crescent at the base of the nail, the visible part of the matrix. More noticeable on the thumbs. Its size and shape vary in different people.

   • Nail roller: The skin surrounding the nail plate. Protects the nail matrix from damage and infections. It consists of proximal, lateral and distal nail rollers.

   • Cuticle: A thin strip of skin located at the base of the nail. Protects the nail matrix from infections and prevents moisture. The cuticle should not be cut, as this can increase the risk of infections.

   • Hyponichia: The skin under the distal free edge of the nail. Protects the nail bed from infections.

2. Street of nail:

   • Nails grow continuously, but slower than hair.
   • 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 growth rate of nails depends on the age, gender, nutrition and the general state of health.
   • Nails grow faster in summer than in winter.
   • Complete regeneration of the nail on the arm takes about 6 months, and on the leg – about 12-18 months.

3. Nail functions:

   • Protecting the tips of the fingers and toes from damage.
   • Allow you to perform thin manipulations.
   • Improve tactile perception.
   • They play a role in aesthetic appearance.

Part 5: Nail diseases

1. Nail infections:

   • Onychomycosis (fungal nail infection): The most common nail disease caused by fungi. Leads to thickening, a change in color and deformation of the nail. Treatment includes the use of antifungal drugs (locally or inside).

   • Paroniyies: Skin infection around the nail caused by bacteria or fungi. Manifests itself in the form of redness, edema and soreness. Treatment includes the use of antibiotics or antifungal creams.

2. Other nail diseases:

   • Leikonichia (white spots on the nails): It can be caused by a nail injury, zinc deficiency or other factors. Usually it is not a sign of a serious disease.

   • Bo lines (cross grooves on the nails): Can be caused by stress, diseases, drugs or injuries. Indicate the temporary slowdown in the nail growth.

   • Onycholysis (detachment of the nail from the nail bed): It can be caused by injury, fungal infection, psoriasis or other factors. The nail bed becomes vulnerable to infections.

   • Angled nail: A condition in which the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin. It is more common on the thumbs. Causes pain, inflammation and infection. Treatment includes surgical removal of part of the nail.

   • Nail psoriasis: It manifests itself in the form of point recesses (thimble symptom), changes in color, thickening and abiding of the nail. Associated with skin psoriasis.

   • Strawberry nails: Thickening and curvature of nails associated with chronic diseases of the lungs, heart and gastrointestinal tract.

   • Yellow nail syndrome: A rare disease characterized by yellow nails, lymphedrate and respiratory problems.

3. Changes in nails associated with systemic diseases:

   • Anemia: It can cause pallor of the nail bed, coilonichi (spoon -like nails) and fragility of nails.

   • Thyroid diseases: They can cause brittleness, slow growth and thickening of nails.

   • Diabetes sugar: Increases the risk of fungal nail infections.

   • Kidney diseases: They can cause clouding and splitting of nails.

Part 6: nail care

1. Nail hygiene:

   • Wash your hands with soap and water regularly.
   • Dry your hands thoroughly after washing, especially between the fingers.
   • Cut your nails straight without twisting the edges.
   • Use clean tools for manicure and pedicure.
   • Do not bite your nails and do not pick the cuticle.

2. Moisturization of nails and skin around the nails:

   • Regularly apply a moisturizer or oil on the nails and skin around the nails.
   • It is especially important to moisturize your nails after washing your hands and the use of varnish removal.

3. Nail protection from damage:

   • Wear gloves when doing housework, such as washing dishes and cleaning.
   • Avoid prolonged contact with water and chemicals.
   • Do not use nails to open cans and other items.

4. Proper use of nail polish and liqueur remedies:

   • Use high -quality nail varnishes and remedies for removing varnish without acetone.
   • Apply the base coating before applying varnish to protect the nails from staining.
   • Do not use nail polish constantly, let your nails rest.

5. Nutrition for nail health:

   • Use products rich in protein, vitamins and minerals necessary for the health of nails (protein, iron, zinc, biotin, vitamin D).

6. Professional nail care:

   • Regularly visit the masters of manicure and pedicure for professional nail care.
   • Tell the master about any changes in the state of your nails.

Part 7: Cosmetic procedures for hair and nails

1. Cosmetic hair procedures:

   • Hair dyeing: Changing hair color using chemical dyes. There are various types of staining (permanent, semi -permanent, temporary). Incorrect coloring can damage hair.

   • Perm: Changing the structure of the hair using chemicals to create curls. Damages hair and requires professional execution.

   • Hair straightening: Changing the structure of hair using chemicals or thermal tools to create straight hair. Damages hair and requires professional execution.

   • Hair lamination: Hair coating with a special composition that makes them more smooth, shiny and protected from damage.

   • Keratin straightening: Hair straightening using keratin and other chemicals. Makes the hair more smooth, shiny and obedient. Contains formaldehyde or its derivatives.

   • Hair extension: Increasing the length and volume of hair by attaching additional strands of hair to natural hair. There are various methods of extension (strip, capsule, tress).

2. Cosmetics for nails:

   • Manicure: Caring for the nails of the hands, including cutting, cutting, polishing nails, removing the cuticle and applying varnish.

   • Pedicure: Failure care, including cutting, sawing, polishing nails, removing corns and corns and varnish.

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

   • Gel polish: Long -term nail coating, which lasts several weeks. It requires the use of UV lamps for polymerization.

   • Strengthening nails: The procedure aimed at strengthening and protecting nails from brittleness and stratification. Special varnishes and gels are used.

Part 8: Folk hair and nails

1. Folk hair products:

   • Hair masks using oils (olive, coconut, burdock, castor): Moisturize and nourish hair, give it shine and softness.

   • Decoctions of herbs (chamomile, nettle, burdock, rosemary): Strengthen hair, stimulate growth and give it shine.

   • Hair rinsing with vinegar (apple cider vinegar): Gives the hair shine and removes the remaining shampoo.

   • Hair masks using eggs: They nourish the hair with a protein and give it shine.

   • Hair masks using honey: Moisturize their hair and give it shine.

2. Folk remedies for nails:

   • Salt nail baths: Strengthen the nails and prevent their brittleness.

   • Baths for nails with lemon juice: White your nails and strengthen them.

   • Rub the olive oil in toe: Moisturizes and nourishes nails, gives them shine.

   • Nail compresses using aloe vera: Moisturize and nourish the nails, contribute to their healing.

Part 9: The connection of hair and nails with the overall health of the body

The condition of the hair and nails is often a reflection of the general state of health of the body. Changes in the appearance and structure of hair and nails can be early signs of various diseases and nutrient deficiency.

1. Hair as an indicator of health:

   • Hair loss: It may be associated with a deficiency of iron, zinc, biotin, vitamin D, hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, stress, pregnancy, autoimmune diseases and other factors.

   • Brighten hair: It may be associated with a deficiency of protein, fatty acids, vitamins and minerals, as well as damage to the hair from chemical treatment and thermal tools.

   • Changing hair color: It may be associated with copper deficiency, hypothyroidism or other factors.

   • Dry hair: It can be associated with dehydration, deficiency of fatty acids and vitamins, as well as using aggressive shampoos and air conditioners.

2. Nails as an indicator of health:

   • Fitty nails: It can be associated with a deficiency of iron, zinc, biotin, vitamins A and D, hypothyroidism and other factors.

   • Changing the color of the nails: It may be associated with fungal infections, psoriasis, liver diseases, kidneys and other diseases.

   • Bo lines (cross grooves on the nails): Can be caused by stress, diseases, drugs or injuries.

   • Koilonichia (spoon -like nails): It can be associated with iron deficiency.

   • Strawberry nails: Thickening and curvature of nails associated with chronic diseases of the lungs, heart and gastrointestinal tract.

3. The importance of consulting a doctor:

   If you notice any significant changes in the state of your hair or nails, it is important to consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment. The doctor can conduct an examination, prescribe tests and determine the cause of the changes. Self -medication can be dangerous and lead to a deterioration in the condition. The doctor can direct you to a dermatologist, an endocrinologist or another specialist for further examination and treatment.

Part 10: Modern studies in the area of hair and nails

1. Hair loss research:

   • The study of genetic factors affecting androgenic alopecia.
   • Development of new methods of treatment of focal alopecia, including immunotherapy and targeted drugs.
   • The study of the role of the microbioma of the scalp in hair growth.
   • Development of new products to stimulate hair growth based on plant extracts and peptides.

2. Studies in the field of nail health:

   • The study of the mechanisms of the development of fungal nail infections and the development of new antifungal drugs.
   • Development of new methods of diagnosing diseases of the nails, including non -invasive methods.
   • Study of the effect of nutrition on the health of the nails.
   • Development of new tools for strengthening and protecting nails based on bioactive components.

3. Technologies in the field of hair and nail care:

   • Development of personalized hair care products and nails based on DNA analysis and other data.
   • The use of artificial intelligence to diagnose hair and nail diseases.
   • Development of new methods of hair transplantation using robotic systems.
   • Using laser technologies for the treatment of nail diseases.

4. Development prospects:

   • Development of new methods of genetic therapy for the treatment of hereditary diseases of hair and nails.
   • Creating artificial hair and nails using bioengineering.
   • Development of new products to prevent aging hair and nails.
   • Integration of technology and medicine to create more effective and personalized solutions in the field of hair care and