Split Ends & Structure

The Structure of your hair is somewhat like that of a rope. Repeatedly, smaller fibers are intertwined to form large fibers, until a single strand of hair is created. A split end is a natural evolution of a hair shaft as it unravels. Hair grows an average of 1/2 inch per month. However, if ends of your hair are not kept trimmed, you may find your hair is splitting at the ends and is breaking off. To keep good, healthy hair, it is advised that your hair should be cut once every four to six weeks. Trimming as little as 1/4 of an inch off the ends will keep split ends from forming.

 
 
       
  Electron Scanning
Microscopic photos show how split
ends start after a scissor cut.
 
     

        Cuticle

        Cortex

        Medulla

Shine & Luster

Hair is made of three layers. The two most important ones are the cortex and cuticle. The inner cortex contains hair color pigment, as well as 80% of the strength of your hair. The cuticle is the outer layer and is composed of a clear, fingernail-like substance. The cuticle is shaped like fish scales and should lie flat in order to prevent tangles and matting. Shine and luster are the results of light bouncing off a healthy cuticle allowing your base color pigment from the cortex below to show through. Raised cuticles absorb light and can keep your hair looking dull. Remember, acid balanced products keep the hair cuticle flat and always insure good shine and luster to your hair
 
 

 

  

 
     

Electron Scanning
Microscope photo shows the outside cuticle layer of the hair. It looks just like fish scales.
       
Electron Scanning
Microscopic photos of
a bad razor cut

PH Chart

   Your body protects itself naturally by staying in a slightly acid state of 4.5 to 5.5. Therefore, anything you put on your skin, hair, or nails should also be acid balanced to these numbers.
    The use of alkaline products on your hair will cause
it to swell. The structure will lose strength, elasticity, and luster, resulting in more tangles and matting problems. After any major alkaline encounter, it is important to shampoo and condition your hair back into shape with good products that fall around the proper balanced area.
Nitrazine papers, which can be purchased at any drug store, will allow you to first test anything that you
want to put on you hair, skin, or nails.

  

 
 
 
 
Electron Scanning
Microscopic photo of one strand of hair tied into a knot.