hair and nails

Section 1: Anatomy and physiology of hair and nails: Fundamentals of beauty and health

Hair and nails, although it seems simple structures, are complex derivatives of the epidermis that perform important protection functions and reflect the general state of health of the body. The understanding of their anatomy and physiology is crucial for maintaining their beauty and strength.

1.1. Hair anatomy:

The hair consists of two main parts: a hair follicle located in the skin and a hair rod protruding above the surface of the skin.

• Hair follicle: This is the root of the hair, deeply going into the dermis and even hypoderm. It is a pocket from which the hair grows.

  • Hair onion: The lowest, expanded part of the follicle. It contains a matrix, an area of ​​active cell division responsible for hair growth.
  • Dermal papilla: The propagation of the connective tissue at the base of the bulb containing blood vessels and nerves. It provides nutrition and regulation of hair growth.
  • Hair root vagina: Layers of cells surrounding the root of the hair. The outer vagina of the root is a continuation of the epidermis, and the inner vagina of the root consists of three layers: a layer of Henle, a layer of haxli and cutters of the vagina of the root.
  • Sebaceous glands: Usually associated with hair follicles. They distinguish skin lard, an oily substance that lubricates the hair and skin, preventing its drying.
  • Hair lifting (Arrector pili): A small muscle attached to the hair follicle. Its reduction causes “goose skin” and raises the hair.

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

  • Cuticle: The outer layer of hair rod. It consists of overlapping keratin scales that protect the hair from damage. A healthy cuticle makes the hair smooth and shiny.
  • Cor (cortex): The bulk of the hair consisting of long, spindle -shaped cells containing keratin and pigment (melanin), which determines the color of the hair.
  • Core (Medulla): The central layer of hair, which is not in all hair (especially in thin hair). It consists of loose, keratinized cells and airspace.

1.2. Hair physiology:

Hair growth occurs cyclically and consists of three main phases:

• Anagen (growth phase): The longest phase lasting from 2 to 7 years. At this time, cells in matrix are actively divided, providing hair growth. About 90% of the hair on the head are in the anagen phase.
• Katagen (transition phase): A short phase lasting about 2-3 weeks. At this time, hair growth stops, the hair follicle is reduced, and the dermal papilla is separated from the bulb.
• Telogen (Phase Salm): The resting phase lasting about 3 months. At this time, the hair remains in the follicle, but does not grow. About 10% of the hair on the head is in the heterogene phase. At the end of this phase, the hair falls out, and the new anagen cycle begins.

1.3. Anatomy of the nail:

Nails are hard horn plates that protect the tips of the fingers and legs.

• Nail plate: The visible part of the nail consisting of tightly packed keratinized cells.
• Nail bed: The skin under the nail plate. It contains blood vessels and nerves that provide nutrition and sensitivity of the nail.
• Nail matrix: The area located at the base of the nail is under the proximal nail roller. In the matrix there is an active division of cells responsible for the growth of the nail.
• Lunked: Whitish crescent at the base of the nail. This is part of the matrix, visible through the nail plate.
• Nail roller: The skin surrounding the nail plate.
  • Proximal nail roller (eponichia): The skin covering the base of the nail.
  • Lateral nail rollers (paronichia): The skin surrounding the side sides of the nail.
• Hyponichia: The skin under the distal edge of the nail plate. It provides a tight connection between the fingernail and finger.

1.4. Physiology of the nail:

Nails grow continuously from the matrix. The cells in the matrix are divided and differentiated, turning into keratinized cells that form a nail plate. The nail plate slowly slides along the nail bed, replacing the old cells with new ones. The growth rate of nails varies depending on the age, state of health and other factors. On average, the nails in the hands grow faster than the nails on the legs.

Section 2: Factors affecting the health of hair and nails:

The health of hair and nails is a reflection of the general condition of the body. Many factors, both internal and external, can influence their growth, structure and appearance.

2.1. Nutrition:

Proper nutrition is crucial for the health of hair and nails. The lack of certain nutrients can lead to hair loss, fragility of nails and other problems.

• Protein: Hair and nails consist mainly of keratin, protein. Sufficient protein consumption is necessary for their growth and recovery. Good sources of protein: meat, fish, eggs, dairy products, legumes, nuts and seeds.
• Iron: Iron deficiency can lead to hair loss and fragility of nails. Iron is necessary for transferring oxygen to hair follicles and cells that form nails. Good sources of iron: red meat, liver, spinach, legumes and enriched cereals.
• Zinc: Zinc plays an important role in the growth and restoration of fabrics, including hair and nails. Zinc deficiency can lead to hair loss, slow growth of nails and the appearance of white spots on the nails. Good sources of zinc: oysters, red meat, poultry, nuts, seeds and whole grains.
• Biotin (Vitamin B7): Biotin is necessary for the metabolism of fats, carbohydrates and proteins. Biotin deficiency can lead to hair loss, fragility of nails and skin problems. Good sources of biotin: eggs, liver, nuts, seeds and sweet potatoes.
• Vitamin D: Vitamin D plays an important role in hair growth. Studies have shown the relationship between vitamin D deficiency and hair loss. You can get vitamin D from sunlight, fatty fish, eggs and enriched products.
• Vitamin C: Vitamin C is an antioxidant that protects the hair and nails from damage caused by free radicals. It is also necessary for the production of collagen, which is important for hair health. Good sources of vitamin C: citrus fruits, berries, pepper and green leafy vegetables.
• Omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3 fatty acids are important for the health of the scalp and hair growth. They help reduce inflammation and improve blood circulation in hair follicles. Good sources of omega-3 fatty acids: fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, sardines), linen seed, chia seeds and walnuts.

2.2. Hormonal background:

Hormones play an important role in the regulation of hair and nail growth. Hormonal changes associated with pregnancy, menopause, thyroid gland and other conditions can have a significant effect on their health.

• Pregnancy: During pregnancy, the estrogen level increases, which leads to an increase in the anagen phase and a decrease in hair loss. After childbirth, the estrogen level falls, which can lead to temporary hair loss (postpartum hair loss). Nails during pregnancy can grow faster and become stronger.
• Menopause: A decrease in estrogen levels in menopause can lead to thinning of the hair, slowing down the growth of nails and their fragility.
• Thyroid gland: Diseases of the thyroid gland (hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism) can cause hair loss, change in hair texture and fragility of nails.
• Androgens: Androgen (male sex hormones) play a role in the development of androgenetic alopecia (male and female baldness). Dihydrotestosterone (DGT), a derivative of testosterone, is associated with hair follicles and leads to their miniaturization.
• Insulin: Insulin resistance and diabetes can negatively affect hair and nail growth. A high level of insulin can lead to an increase in the level of androgens and hair loss.

2.3. Stress:

Chronic stress can negatively affect the health of hair and nails.

• Telogen hair loss: Stress can lead to heterogeneous hair loss, in which a large number of hair follicles passes into the heterogene phase (rest) and falls in a few months.
• Trichotillomania: A disorder in which a person experiences an insurmountable desire to pull out his hair.
• Onychophagia (native natives): A nervous habit that can lead to damage to nails and skin around them.
• Blood circulation: Stress can lead to narrowing of blood vessels, which worsens the nutrition of hair follicles and nail matrix.

2.4. Diseases and medicines:

Some diseases and drugs can affect the health of hair and nails.

• Autoimmune diseases: An alopecia of the area (focal alopecia) is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the hair follicles, leading to hair loss. Red lupus can also cause hair loss and a change in nail structure.
• Infectious diseases: The fungal scalp infections (cutting lichen) and nails (onychomycosis) can lead to hair loss and a change in the appearance of the nails.
• Skin diseases: Psoriasis and eczema can affect the scalp and nail bed, causing hair loss and nail deformation.
• Medicines: Chemotherapy, anticoagulants, antidepressants, beta-blockers and retinoids can cause hair loss and a change in nail structure.

2.5. External factors:

External factors, such as ultraviolet radiation, chemical exposure and heat treatment, can damage hair and nails.

• Ultraviolet radiation: UV rays can damage keratin in hair and nails, making them dry, brittle and dull.
• Chemical effect: Coloring, lightening, chemical curls and hair straightening can damage the hair cuticle, making it porous and brittle. The use of aggressive chemicals to clean the house can also damage nails.
• Heat treatment: Frequent use of a hairdryer, ironing and curls for curling can dry hair and damage their structure.
• Injuries: Injuries of the scalp and nails can lead to hair loss and nail deformation.
• Incorrect care: The use of aggressive shampoos, air conditioners and styling tools, as well as improper hair combing and nail cutting can damage hair and nails.

Section 3: Hair problems: causes, symptoms and solutions:

There are many problems with hair that can occur for various reasons. Timely diagnosis and proper care will help maintain the health and beauty of the hair.

3.1. Hair loss (alopecia):

Hair loss is a common problem that can occur for various reasons.

• Androgenetic alopecia (male and female baldness): The most common type of hair loss associated with a genetic predisposition and hormonal factors. In men, it manifests itself in the form of thinning of hair on temples and crown, and in women – in the form of uniform thinning of hair throughout the head.

  • Reasons: Genetic predisposition, hormonal imbalance (increased level of androgens), age.
  • Symptoms: Thinning of hair, slow hair growth, an increase in the amount of hair that falls out during combing and washing the head.
  • Solutions: Minoxidil (external solution), finsteride (tablets for men), laser therapy, hair transplant.

• Telogen hair loss: Temporary hair loss caused by stress, pregnancy, disease, medicines or a deficiency of nutrients.

  • Reasons: Stress, pregnancy, illness, medicine, a deficiency of nutrients (iron, zinc, vitamin D).
  • Symptoms: Uniform hair loss throughout the head, an increase in the amount of hair falling during combing and washing the head.
  • Solutions: Eliminating the cause of hair loss (stress control, proper nutrition, treatment of the disease), vitamins and minerals, local hair growth stimulants.

• Alopecia of the Areat (focal alopecia): Autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the hair follicles, leading to hair loss in the form of separate foci.

  • Reasons: Autoimmune disease, genetic predisposition, stress.
  • Symptoms: Hair loss in the form of individual foci, smooth skin in the area of ​​hair loss, sometimes damage to nails.
  • Solutions: Corticosteroids (local and systemic), immunotherapy, minoxidil, laser therapy.

• Traction alopecia: Hair loss caused by constant hair tension, for example, when wearing tight hairstyles, cos or hair extension.

  • Reasons: Constant hair tension (tight hairstyles, braids, hair extension).
  • Symptoms: Hair loss through hair growth, thinning of hair in the area of ​​tension.
  • Solutions: Avoid tight hairstyles, wear hair loose, strengthen hair with nutrient masks and oils.

3.2. Dryness and brittle hair:

Dry and brittle hair is often the result of damage to the cuticle, which leads to loss of moisture and nutrients.

• Reasons: Frequent use of a hairdryer, ironing and curling forceps, chemical processing (staining, lightening, chemical curls), exposure to ultraviolet radiation, the use of aggressive shampoos and air conditioners, a lack of moisture, and a deficiency of nutrients.
• Symptoms: Dry, dull, hard hair, split ends, brittle hair, hard to comb hair.
• Solutions: The use of soft shampoos and air conditioners, moisturizing hair masks, hair oils (coconut, argan, olive), restriction of hairdryer, ironing and curling forceps, sun protection, proper nutrition.

3.3. Hair fatness:

Bold hair is the result of excessive production of sebum with sebaceous glands.

• Reasons: Genetic predisposition, hormonal imbalance, stress, improper nutrition, use of inappropriate shampoos and air conditioners, frequent wash of the head.
• Symptoms: Bold hair at the roots, quickly dirty hair, dull look of hair, sticky hair.
  • Solutions: The use of shampoos for oily hair, avoid frequent wash of the head, proper nutrition, use of dry shampoos, hair masks with clay.

3.4. Dandruff (seborrheic dermatitis):

Dandruff is a common disease of the scalp, characterized by peeling and itching.

• Reasons: Malassezia Globosa fungus, increased skin fat, stress, hormonal imbalance, dry scalp.
• Symptoms: Peeling of the scalp, itching, redness of the scalp, dandruff on the hair and clothes.
  • Solutions: The use of shampoos with antifungal components (ketoconazole, zinc pyrithion, selenium sulfide), moisturizing shampoos, local corticosteroids, proper nutrition, stress management.

3.5. Serving tips:

Serving tips arise due to damage to the cuticle of the hair at the ends.

• Reasons: Dry hair, frequent use of a hairdryer, ironing and curling forceps, chemical treatment (staining, lightening, chemical curls), mechanical damage (combing with a hard brush), exposure to ultraviolet radiation.
• Symptoms: Separation of hair ends into two or more parts, dryness and fragility of the ends of the hair, dull type of hair.
  • Solutions: Regular haircut of hair ends, the use of moisturizing hair masks, hair oils (coconut, argan, olive), restriction of hair dryer, ironing and curling forceps, sun protection.

Section 4: problems with nails: causes, symptoms and solutions:

Nail health is an important indicator of the general condition of the body. Changes in the color, shape or structure of the nails can be a sign of various diseases.

4.1. Onychomycosis (fungal nail infection):

A fungal nail infection is a common disease that can affect the nails on the arms and legs.

• Reasons: Fungal infection, nail injury, circulatory disorders, increased humidity, wearing tight shoes.
  • Symptoms: Change in the color of the nail (yellow, white, brown), thickening of the nail, deformation of the nail, fragility of the nail, detachment of the nail from the nail bed.
  • Solutions: Antifungal drugs (local and systemic), laser therapy, surgical removal of the nail.

4.2. Onycholysis (detachment of the nail from the nail bed):

Removing the nail from the nail bed can be caused by various factors.

• Reasons: Nail injuries, fungal infection, psoriasis, eczema, allergic reactions, drugs, thyroid diseases.
  • Symptoms: Removing the nail from the nail bed, a change in the color of the nail (white, yellow), inflammation of the skin around the nail.
  • Solutions: Treatment of the main cause of the nail, protecting the nail from injuries, maintaining dry nails, local antiseptics.

4.3. Leikonichia (white spots on the nails):

White spots on nails are a common occurrence that is usually not a sign of a serious disease.

• Reasons: Nail injuries, zinc deficiency, allergic reactions.
  • Symptoms: White spots on the nails.
  • Solutions: Usually does not require treatment. Protection of nails from injuries, balanced nutrition.

4.4. Bo lines (transverse furrows on the nails):

The transverse furrows on the nails can be a sign of a disease or stress.

• Reasons: Passed illness, stress, nail injury, chemotherapy.
  • Symptoms: Cross furrows on the nails.
  • Solutions: Usually does not require treatment. Elimination of the cause of Bo lines.

4.5. Involved nail (onychocryptosis):

An ingrown nail is a condition in which the edge of the nail grows into the skin around the nail.

• Reasons: Incorrect trimming of nails, wearing tight shoes, nail injury, genetic predisposition.
  • Symptoms: Pain, redness, skin swelling around the nail, inflammation, pus.
  • Solutions: Correct trimming of nails, wearing comfortable shoes, warm baths with salt, antiseptics, surgical removal of part of the nail or the entire nail.

4.6. Browneness of nails (onhoshisis):

The fragility of nails is a condition in which the nails are easily broken and delax.

• Reasons: Dry nails, frequent wash of the hands, the use of aggressive detergents, deficiency of vitamins and minerals, thyroid disease.
  • Symptoms: Brown, dry, delapping nails.
  • Solutions: Moisturizing nails with cream and oils, wearing gloves when washing dishes and cleaning, proper nutrition, vitamins and minerals, treatment of thyroid diseases.

Section 5: Hair and nail care: tips and recommendations:

Proper care of hair and nails will help maintain their health, beauty and strength.

5.1. Hair care:

• Washing hair:

  • Choose a shampoo suitable for your type of hair (dry, oily, normal, colored).
  • Do not wash your hair too often (2-3 times a week enough).
  • Use warm, not hot water.
  • Gently massage the scalp when washing.
  • Rinse the shampoo and air conditioning thoroughly.

• Hair conditioning:

  • Use air conditioning after each hair washing.
  • Apply the air conditioner to the ends of the hair, avoiding the roots.
  • Leave the air conditioning on your hair for a few minutes so that it acts.
  • Rinse the air conditioner thoroughly.

• Combing hair:

  • Use a comb with wide teeth or a soft brush.
  • Comb the hair carefully, starting from the tips and gradually rising to the roots.
  • Do not comb wet hair, as it is more vulnerable to damage.

• Hair drying:

  • Try to dry your hair naturally.
  • If you use a hairdryer, choose a low temperature mode.
  • Keep a hair dryer at a distance of at least 15 centimeters from hair.
  • Use thermal protection products.

• Hair styling:

  • Limit the use of a hair dryer, ironing and curling forceps.
  • Use thermal protection products.
  • Choose styling products that do not contain alcohol.

• Sun hair protection:

  • Wear a hat or scarf in sunny weather.
  • Use hair products with SPF.

• Regular haircut:

  • Cut the ends of the hair regularly to prevent split ends.

• Hair masks:

  • Make hair masks regularly to moisturize, nourish and restore your hair.

• Hair oils:

  • Use hair oils (coconut, argan, olive) to moisturize and nutrition of hair.

5.2. Nail care:

• Cutting nails:

  • Cut your nails straight without twisting the edges.
  • Use sharp scissors or nippers for nails.
  • Do not cut your nails too short.

• Moisturizing nails:

  • Regularly moisturize the nails and skin around them with cream or oil cuticle oil.

• Nail protection from damage:

  • Wear gloves when washing dishes and cleaning.
  • Do not bite your nails.
  • Avoid using aggressive nail polishes and varnish remedies.

• Nail massage:

  • Regularly massage the nails and skin around them to improve blood circulation.

• Proper nutrition:

  • Observe a balanced diet rich in protein, vitamins and minerals.

• Strengthening nails:

  • Use nail strengthening products.

• Visit to the master of manicure:

  • Regularly visit the masters of manicure for professional nail care.

5.3. Home products for hair and nails:

• Egg mask for hair: Mix 1 egg with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of honey. Apply to the hair for 30 minutes, then rinse.

• Hair mask with avocado: Mash half the avocado and mix with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Apply to the hair for 30 minutes, then rinse.

• Nail oil with lemon: Mix a few drops of lemon juice with olive oil and apply to the nails before bedtime.

• Failure for nails with sea salt: Dissolve 1 tablespoon of sea salt in warm water and lower the nails for 15 minutes.

Section 6: Modern methods of improving the condition of hair and nails:

Modern cosmetology offers a wide range of procedures and means aimed at improving the condition of hair and nails.

6.1. Professional hair procedures:

• Mesotherapy Volos: Injections of vitamins, minerals and amino acids in the scalp to stimulate hair growth and improve their quality.
• Hair plasmolifting: Injections of the patient’s own plasma enriched with platelets into the scalp to stimulate hair growth and improve their quality.
• Laser hair therapy: Using laser radiation to stimulate hair growth and improve their quality.
• Keratin hair straightening: The procedure in which keratin composition is applied to the hair, which straightens the hair and makes it smooth and shiny.
• Botox for hair: The procedure in which the composition is applied to the hair, which restores damaged hair, makes it more smooth and shiny.
• Hair extension: A procedure in which artificial or natural strands of hair are attached to their own hair to increase the length and volume of hair.

6.2. Professional nail procedures:

• Medical manicure and pedicure: The procedure performed by a medical specialist aimed at treating and prevention of nail and skin diseases.
• Hardware manicure and pedicure: The procedure performed using a special apparatus with various nozzles for processing nails and skin.
• Strengthening nails with gel or acrylic: The procedure in which gel or acrylic is applied to the nails to strengthen and protect nails.
• Coating nails with gel polish: The procedure in which gel polish is applied to the nails, which is held on the nails for up to several weeks.
• Treatment of fungal infections of nails with a laser: The use of laser radiation for the treatment of fungal nail infections.
• Nail prosthetics: A procedure in which a damaged or absent nail is replaced by an artificial prosthesis.

6.3. Modern hair and nail care products:

• Shampoos and air conditioners without sulfates: Soft shampoos and air conditioners that do not contain aggressive sulfates that can overdry the hair and scalp.
• Keratin hair products: Means containing keratin, which restore damaged hair and make it more smooth and shiny.
• Hair products with hyaluronic acid: Means containing hyaluronic acid that moisturize the hair and scalp.
• Hair products with oils: Means containing natural oils (argan, coconut, olive) that nourish and moisturize hair.
• Nail products with vitamins and minerals: Means containing vitamins and minerals that strengthen the nails and prevent their brittleness.
• Circular oils: Oils that moisturize and nourish the cuticle, preventing its dryness and the formation of burrs.

Section 7: Myths and errors about hair and nails:

There are many myths and misconceptions about hair and nails, which can lead to improper care of them.

• Myth: Frequent cutting of the ends of the hair accelerates hair growth.

  • Is it true: Cutting the ends of the hair does not affect the speed of hair growth. Hair grows from hair follicles located in the scalp. Cutting the ends of the hair simply removes the split ends, making the hair more healthy and well -groomed.

• Myth: Frequent washing of the head harms the hair.

  • Is it true: The frequency of washing the head depends on the type of hair and the activity of the sebaceous glands. Bold hair can be washed more often than dry. It is important to use a soft shampoo suitable for your hair type, and rinse it thoroughly.

• Myth: gray hair needs to be pulled out.

  • Is it true: Tearing gray hair does not affect the amount of gray hair. Gray hair appears due to a decrease in melanin production with hair follicles. Erasing hair can damage the hair follicle and lead to hair loss.

• Myth: Nails “breathe”.

  • Is it true: Nails do not “breathe.” The nail plate consists of dead keratinized cells and does not have blood vessels and nerves. Nail nutrition occurs through the nail matrix, located at the base of the nail.

• Myth: White spots on the nails mean calcium deficiency.

  • Is it true: White spots on the nails are most often caused by nail injuries. In rare cases, white spots can be a sign of zinc deficiency or an allergic reaction.

• Myth: nail polish harms nails.

  • Is it true: The use of high -quality nail polish and varnish removal does not harm nails