Your Hair: The Outer Structure

It’s complex! When we shampoo, condition, style, colour, curl or braid hair we are working with a structure that has multiple components.

The Cuticle – This is the outside layer of hair, usually between 7 and 10 layers thick depending on the thickness of each individual strand. The cuticle is a protective barrier layer, it is semi-transparent and when healthy looks like fish scales or roof tiles, all tightly compacted together. This tight, protection keeps all the internal structure safe and helps give hair its shine and lustre.

But it is prone to damage, and that can cause natural moisture and proteins, essential for healthy hair, to escape. Colour can also fade more quickly when the cuticle is damaged.

Damaged cuticle layers also create a feeling of dryness, and because the layers are opened up, hair will lack shine. And of course, as we all know, damage to the hair structure will cause split ends.

What causes damage?

The list is endless, but the primary causes of damage to the cuticle are:

1: The Sun – UVA & UVB rays.

2: Salt water and Chlorine (Swimming).

3: Windy days.

4: Central heating.

5: Electrical styling tools – dryers, straighteners, curling irons.

6: Incorrect shampoo and conditioning products.

7: Styling without using protective product.

8: Tying hair up with elastic bands.

How to prevent damage:

Always use the correct products for your hair type, from the shampoo to the finishing product, each has a part to play in protecting the hair structure, especially against ravages of the weather and tools you use to style your hair.

Ask your Rhona McCallum Hair stylist  about the best regime for maintaining your locks at home, and always invest in frequent in-salon treatments to give your hair a super boost of nourishment.