We all want long, lush, and healthy hair but when it comes to our hair we rarely talk or think about what each strand is actually made of and how to best support each strand's strength, health, and growth cycle from the inside-out. Today we wanted to get to the "root" of hair health (see what we did there?!) and share a few ways you can support your hair health and growth.
What are hair follicles?
Hair follicles are tube-shaped structures that hold each hair into the skin. The follicles are all over the body and scalp and are located on the surface of the epidermis. At the base of a hair follicle, there is the root of each hair strand.
Blood vessels located around the hair follicle and hair root provide the root with the necessary nutrients, oxygen, and hormones to support hair growth. Sebaceous glands also located near the hair follicles produce moisturizing oils which help keep the hair and skin smooth and healthy.
How many hair follicles do I have?
You may be shocked to hear this but the average person has 100,000 to 150,000 hair follicles and hair strands on their head at any given time. Each day we lose approximately 100 strands of hair per day which may sound like a lot, but when you consider how many you have on your head it really is quite a small amount.
Do hair follicles affect the texture and color of hair?
Yes! While there are a number of things that affect hair texture, the shape of your hair follicles is one of them. More circular hair follicles tend to produce straight hair while oval hair follicles tend to produce curly or wavy hair. Your hair color is also affected by your hair follicles.
The hair follicles contain melanin which is responsible for determining the color of your hair. Over time, we lose some of the melanin in our hair follicles and that is why our hair becomes grey or white as we age.
Is there anything that I can do to support my hair follicles and hair growth?
Of course! There are many things you can do to support your overall hair health.
One Tru Bloom a Day Keeps Your Hair Lookin' Great!
Reduce Harsh Hair Treatments
Avoid Parabens, Phthalates, and Sulfates
Nourish Your Hair and Scalp
Cynthia V
March 06, 2023
I appreciate the clear and concise explanation used to describe the anatomy and function of hair follicles, making it easy for readers to understand. Overall, this blog is a great read for anyone looking to understand the role of hair follicles in maintaining healthy and luscious locks.