Exercise

Materials needed: a hair strand, and two fingers.

Using your two fingers gently hold a single hair strand starting at the scalp. Lightly stroke the hair strand in a downward motion reaching the very tip of the hair. What do you notice? How does your hair feel? Now let´s go in the opposite direction. Start at the tip of the hair fiber and work your fingers up towards the scalp. It should feel rougher this time around. The reason being is you are going against the natural direction of growth from the cuticle.

Don't Feel Shafted Continued

Medulla

The innermost layer, known as the medulla, can be described as a hollow, small core of round cells running through the length of the hair strand. The fragmented, or disconnected cells of the medulla are composed of proteins. Functions of the inner layer are limited. However, the medulla may play a role in the reflection of light.

Fact Time!

It is uncommon for very fine and naturally blond hair to have a medulla. For the most part thick, coarse hair may be composed of the innermost layer.

Salon services do not involve themselves with the medulla.

The innermost layer can be found in the hairs of many animals. The medulla functions in the regulation of body temperature.