A human hair consists mainly of a protein called keratin,
which is also found in nail it contains some moisture as well as trace metals
and minerals that are also found in the rest parts of the body. The visible
part of the hair called the shaft is a dead tissue. The only living part of the
hair called the dermal papilla, which lies snugly below the surface of the
scalp in a table-like depression is called the hair follicle.

Beautiful, shining hair can and should make you look and
feel great. In order to maintain optimum health of your hair, It is important
to know what impact environment has on its condition and shine, including the
damage caused by over-exposure to sun, wind, and air-conditioning.

Hairs’ natural shine is
a result of sebum, which is an oil composed of waxes and fats that
contain a natural antiseptic that help fight infection. Sebum is produced by
the sebaceous glands present in the dermis (the skin)

Hair grows about one centimeter half inche per month. A
single strand lives for up to seven years and women have more hair than men.
Between the  ages of forty and fifty,
women tend to lose about twenty per cent of their hair.

Hair becomes drier with age

If hair is not cut, it could grow to a length of about one
hundred and seven centimeter, forty-two inches before jailing out.

Women have more hairs than men. Hairs grow fastest between
the age of sixteen and twenty-four years. Hairs grow faster in the summer and
during sleep

Like the rest of the body, the health and condition of hair
is dependent upon a consistently good diet, which ensures it is supplied with
all the necessary nutrients for sustained growth and health.

Regular exercise is also important as it promotes good blood
circulation, which in turn ensures that vital oxygen and nutrients are
transported to the hair root via the blood.

Poor eating habits and lack of regular exercise are seen
reflected in the state of the hair, and even a minor case of short term
ill-health can often make the hair look limp and lack luster.

Drinking plenty of water (between six and eight glasses a
day), herbal teas and unsweetened fruit juice will keep you hydrated and the
hairs looking good.

Salmon beans and Dark Green Vegetables. Beans are good for
the hairs not only do they provide abundant protein to promote hair growth,
they also provide ample iron, zinc, and biotin.

While rare, biotin deficiencies can result in brittle hair.
Hair type is determined by its natural condition- how much moisture the hair
holds and its sebum level Perming, colouring and heat styling can have an
impact, so its is important to use the correct products.

It may need a conditioning treatment on an occasional basis.
Choose a gentle shampoo for regular use. Dry hair cannot repair itself but you
can help prevent further deterioration.

Oily hairs look lanky and greasy and needs frequent  washing. It is csued by the overproduction of
sebum. Which can be a genetic tendency, or as a result of hormone disturbances,
non-aggressive shapoo can give the hair added volume.

Damaged hair: Is typified by being dull, lifeless lacking in
shine and difficult to manage. Unavoidable environmental factors, such as wind,
sun, sand, sea water, chlorine, air conditioning or central heating are the
culprits preventing damage is about keeping hair as flexible as possible with a
high moisture content.

Limp hair is difficult to handle because it does not hold a
style. The texture of a fine hair is hereditary. Wash hair frequently with a
mild cleanser and use a very tight conditioner. Volumizing shampoos can help
give body, and soft perms will make hair appear thicker.

Choose a mild shampoo and perhaps a moisturizing one. Avoid
excessive use of heat styles. If the dandruff persists, try specially labeled
products or consult a doctor or trichologist.

Tips For Healthy Hair:

Cut down on tea and coffee if you can

Alcohol dilates blood vessels and so helps increase blood
flow to the tissues, including the scalp.

Regular exercise stimulates the circulatory system,
encouraging a healthy blood supply to all cells and nourishing and helping to
regenraate and repair.

Minakiri is a student of Rivers State University of Science
and Technology, Port Harcourt.

Juliet Edward Minakiri