hair and nails: beauty secrets

Hair and nails: beauty secrets

I. Cellular biology of hair and nails: beauty foundation

To understand how to achieve healthy hair and strong nails, you need to understand their cellular structure and physiology. Both, both hair and nails, are skin appendages, consisting mainly of keratin – a fibrillar protein that provides strength and elasticity.

A. Anatomy and physiology of the hair:

  1. Hair follicle: This is a dynamic structure that determines the growth, shape and texture of the hair. Cyclically passes the growth phases (anagen), the transition phase (catagen) and the dormant phase (bodyogen). The duration of the anagen phase determines the maximum hair length. The dimensions and shape of the follicle affect the thickness and curly hair of the hair. Melanocytes in the follicle are responsible for pigmentation.

  2. Hair rod: The visible part of the hair consisting of three layers:

    • Cuticle: The outer layer consisting of overlapping keratin scales protecting the inner layers. The condition of the cuticle directly affects the shine and smoothness of the hair. The damaged cuticle makes the hair dull and brittle.

    • Cortex: The main part of the rod containing keratin fibers that determine the strength, elasticity and color of the hair. There are also melanocytes that give the hair a shade.

    • Medulla: The core of the hair, present not in all hair, especially in thin ones. Its function is not fully studied.

  3. Hair growth: It comes from a hair follicle. The cells of the hair follicle are actively divided, producing new keratinocytes that harden and form the hair rod. The growth rate varies depending on genetics, age, nutrition and other factors.

B. Anatomy and physiology of the nail:

  1. Nail plate: The visible part of the nail consisting of tightly packed keratinocytes. It is relatively impermeable, but still able to absorb moisture.

  2. Nail bed: The skin under the nail plate containing blood vessels and nerve endings. The health of the nail bed directly affects the appearance of the nail.

  3. Matrix: The base of the nail is located under the cuticle. Here, cells forming a nail plate occur. Damage to the matrix can lead to deformation of the nail.

  4. Cuticle: Protects matrix from infections and damage. It is important to maintain it moisturized and not cut off too aggressively.

  5. Lunked: The white semi -moon region at the base of the nail, which is the visible part of the matrix.

  6. Side rollers: Skin folds on the sides of the nail, supporting the nail plate.

II. Nutrition for healthy hair and nails: Key nutrients

Proper nutrition plays a decisive role in the health of hair and nails. The deficiency of certain nutrients can lead to brittleness, hair loss, slow growth of nails and other problems.

A. Belok:

Hair and nails consist mainly of keratin, which is a protein. Therefore, sufficient protein consumption is extremely important.

  1. Sources: Meat, fish, poultry, eggs, dairy products, legumes, nuts, seeds.

  2. Recommendations: About 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight per day. For people involved in sports or in stressful situations, the need may be higher.

  3. Meaning: Provides building blocks for keratin, necessary for the growth and strength of hair and nails.

B. Iron:

Iron deficiency is one of the most common causes of hair loss, especially in women.

  1. Sources: Red meat, liver, spinach, lentils, beans, enriched cereals.

  2. Recommendations: 8 mg per day for men and 18 mg per day for women (to menopause). Pregnant women need more iron.

  3. Meaning: It is necessary to transfer oxygen to hair follicles and a matrix of the nail. Deficiency leads to weakening and hair loss, as well as to thinning and deformation of nails.

C. Zinc:

Zinc plays an important role in the growth and restoration of fabrics, including hair and nails.

  1. Sources: Oysters, red meat, poultry, nuts, seeds, legumes, whole grain products.

  2. Recommendations: 11 mg per day for men and 8 mg per day for women.

  3. Meaning: Participates in the synthesis of protein (keratin), supports the functioning of the sebaceous glands that feed the hair, and helps to strengthen the nail plate. Deficiency leads to hair loss, slowing down nail growth and the appearance of white spots on the nails (leikonichia).

D. Biotin (Vitamin B7):

Biotin is often called “beauty vitamin” because of its effect on the health of hair, skin and nails.

  1. Sources: Eggs, liver, nuts, seeds, sweet potatoes, avocados, salmon.

  2. Recommendations: 30 mcg per day.

  3. Meaning: Participates in the metabolism of fats, proteins and carbohydrates necessary for cell growth. The disadvantage of biotin can lead to hair loss, fragility of nails and dermatitis. Although the biotin deficiency is relatively rare, the intake of additives can be useful for improving the condition of hair and nails.

E. Vitamin C:

A powerful antioxidant necessary for the synthesis of collagen, which supports the structure of hair and nails.

  1. Sources: Citrus fruits, strawberries, kiwi, pepper, broccoli, spinach.

  2. Recommendations: 90 mg per day for men and 75 mg per day for women. Smokers need more vitamin C.

  3. Meaning: Protects hair follicles and nail bed from damage by free radicals, helps to absorb iron and stimulates the production of collagen, which strengthens hair and nails.

F. Vitamin D:

He plays a role in stimulating the growth of hair follicles.

  1. Sources: Sunlight (synthesized in the skin under the influence of UV rays), oily fish, egg yolks, enriched products (milk, flakes).

  2. Recommendations: 600 IU (15 μg) per day for adults.

  3. Meaning: Participates in the regulation of cell growth and immune function. Vitamin D deficiency can lead to hair loss and other health problems.

G. Omega-3 fatty acids:

Healthy fats necessary to maintain healthy scalp and nail bed.

  1. Sources: Fat fish (salmon, tuna, sardines), linen seed, chia, walnuts, fish oil.

  2. Recommendations: 250-500 mg EPA and DHA per day.

  3. Meaning: Reduce inflammation, moisturize the scalp, contribute to a healthy hair growth and strengthen nails.

H. Other important nutrients:

  • Silicon: It helps to strengthen hair and nails, contained in cucumbers, pepper, onions, oats.
  • Selenium: Antioxidant, protects the cells from damage, is contained in Brazilian nuts, tuna, eggs.
  • Copper: It is necessary for the formation of collagen and hair pigmentation, contained in the liver, seafood, nuts, seeds.

III. Hair care: from cleansing to protection

Proper hair care is the key to their beauty and health. It is important to consider the type of hair, their condition and individual needs.

A. Washing hair:

  1. Choosing shampoo: Choose a shampoo suitable for your type of hair (dry, oily, normal, dyed, damaged). Avoid shampoos with aggressive sulfates (SLS, Sles), which can dry the hair and scalp.

  2. Washing technique: Apply shampoo to wet hair, massage the scalp with your fingertips, then rinse thoroughly with water. Repeat if necessary.

  3. Washing frequency: Depends on the type of hair and lifestyle. Bold hair can be washed daily, dry-2-3 times a week.

  4. Water temperature: Use warm, not hot water to avoid overdrying hair.

B. air conditioning and masks:

  1. Air conditioner: It is necessary after each washing to moisturize, smooth and facilitate hair combing. Apply to wet hair, retreating from the roots, and rinse in a few minutes.

  2. Hair masks: More intense care than air conditioning. Designed for deep hydration, restoration and nutrition of hair. Use 1-2 times a week. Apply to wet hair, leave for 15-30 minutes, then rinse thoroughly.

  3. Types of masks: Moisturizing, nutritious, restoring, for dyed hair, for hair growth.

  4. Natural masks: You can cook houses from natural ingredients, such as honey, avocados, olive oil, coconut oil, eggs, kefir.

C. Combing:

  1. CHOSE CHIED: Choose a comb with wide teeth for combing wet hair and a comb with natural bristles for dry hair. Avoid metal combs that can damage the hair.

  2. Combing technique: Start combing your hair from the tips, gradually rising to the roots. Do not pull and do not tear your hair.

  3. Combing wet hair: Wet hair is more vulnerable to damage, so comb them with particular caution. Use a comb with wide teeth and apply an indelible air conditioner.

D. Hair drying:

  1. Natural drying: The best way to dry hair, as it does not damage it.

  2. Drying with a hairdryer: Use a hairdryer with a quantity nozzle and adjust the air temperature. Keep a hair dryer at a distance of at least 15 cm from your hair.

  3. Thermal protection: Be sure to use thermal protection products before drying a hairdryer, iron or forceps.

E. Hair styling:

  1. Avoid frequent use of thermal instruments: High temperatures damage the hair, making it dry, brittle and split.

  2. Use quality styling tools: Choose products that are suitable for your type of hair and do not contain alcohol.

  3. Do not abuse tight hairstyles: Tight hairstyles (tails, braids, bundles) can lead to hair loss.

F. Protection from the sun, wind and frost:

  1. Sun: Ultraviolet rays damage the hair, cause fragmentation and dryness. Wear hats or use hair products with SPF.

  2. Wind: A strong wind tangles the hair and makes it brittle. Rub your hair or wear a headdress.

  3. Frost: Low temperatures dry the hair and scalp. Wear a hat and use moisturizers.

G. Regular haircut:

  1. Removing split ends: Regular haircut helps prevent the spread of split ends along the entire length of the hair.

  2. Maintaining the shape of the hairstyle: A haircut allows you to maintain the shape of a hairstyle and refresh the image.

  3. Haircut frequency: Depends on the length and type of hair, as well as on the desired hairstyle. It is usually recommended to cut your hair every 6-8 weeks.

IV. Nail care: from hygiene to strengthening

Healthy and beautiful nails are not only aesthetically aesthetically pleasing, but also an indicator of general health of the body. Proper nail care includes hygiene, moisturizing, strengthening and protection.

A. Hygiene:

  1. Regular hand washing: Wash your hands with warm water and soap several times a day, especially after contact with dirt and after visiting public places.

  2. Cleaning nails: Use a soft nail brush to cleanse the nails of dirt and bacteria.

  3. Drying hands: Dry your hands thoroughly after washing, especially between the fingers.

B. Haircuts and

  1. Haircut: Cut your nails straight, without twisting the corners to avoid your nails.

  2. Fit: Sprinkle your nails in one direction to avoid stratification. Use a file with a small abrasive.

  3. Nail length: Support the moderate length of the nails to avoid injuries and clusters of dirt under the nails.

C. Moisturization:

  1. Cream for hands and nails: Use hand and nail cream regularly to moisten the skin and cuticle.

  2. Oil for the cuticle: Apply oil for the cuticle to the skin around the nails to soften and moisturize it.

  3. Night gloves: Apply a thick layer of hand and nail cream overnight and put on cotton gloves to enhance moisturizing.

D. Protection:

  1. Gloves when working around the house: Put gloves when working around the house using detergents to protect the nails from the effects of aggressive chemicals.

  2. Protection against shocks and injuries: Avoid nail injuries that can lead to their deformation and damage.

  3. Basic coating: Use the base coating before applying varnish to protect the nail plate from pigments and prevent yellowing.

E. Strengthening:

  1. Vitamins and minerals: Take vitamins and minerals necessary for the health of nails (biotin, zinc, iron, vitamin C).

  2. Strengthening varnishes: Use strengthening varnishes containing keratin, calcium and other useful ingredients.

  3. Home baths: Make homemade nail baths with the addition of sea salt, lemon juice, olive oil.

F. Care for the buried:

  1. Do not cut the cuticle: The cuticle protects the matrix of the nail from infections and damage. Instead of circumcision, carefully push it with an orange stick.

  2. Moisten the cuticle: Regularly moisturize the cuticle with oil or cream.

  3. Avoid trauma to the cuticle: Do not pick and do not bite the cuticle to avoid infections and burrs.

G. Manicure and pedicure:

  1. Choose a qualified master: Contact the qualified master who complies with hygiene rules and uses sterile tools.

  2. Report about problems from the nails: Report the master about any problems with nails, such as fungus, inflammation or detachment of the nail plate.

  3. Let the nails take a break from the varnish: Do not wear varnish constantly, let the nails rest at least a few days a week.

V. The common problems with hair and nails and ways to solve them

Many factors, such as genetics, nutrition, stress and external influences, can affect the health of hair and nails. Consider some common problems and ways to solve them.

A. Hair problems:

  1. Hair loss (alopecia):

    • Reasons: Genetics, hormonal changes, stress, nutrient deficiency, autoimmune diseases, drugs.

    • Solutions: Contact a trichologist for diagnosis and prescribing treatment. Use means to stimulate hair growth containing minoxidil, aminexil, caffeine. Observe a balanced diet rich in protein, iron, zinc and biotin. Avoid stress.

  2. Dryness and brittle hair:

    • Reasons: Frequent use of thermal instruments, staining, chemical curl, exposure to the sun, wind and frost, improper care.

    • Solutions: Use moisturizing shampoos and air conditioners. Make hair masks with oils (olive, coconut, argan). Limit the use of thermal tools. Use thermal protection products. Protect your hair from the sun, wind and frost.

  3. Bold hair:

    • Reasons: Hyperactivity of the sebaceous glands, hormonal changes, improper care.

    • Solutions: Use fatty hair shampoos containing salicylic acid, zinc. Wash your hair as necessary. Avoid frequent combing and touching your hair. Use dry shampoo.

  4. Serving tips:

    • Reasons: Mechanical damage, thermal exposure, lack of moisture.

    • Solutions: Cut the split ends regularly. Use moisturizing and restoring hair products. Limit the use of thermal tools. Use thermal protection products.

  5. Dandruff:

    • Reasons: Malassezia fungus, dry scalp, seborrheic dermatitis.

    • Solutions: Use shampoos against dandruff containing ketoconazole, zinc pyrithion, salicylic acid. Contact the dermatologist in a severe form of dandruff.

B. Problems with nails:

  1. Browneness of nails (onhoshisis):

    • Reasons: Frequent contact with water and detergents, lack of moisture, nutrient deficiency, injuries.

    • Solutions: Pour gloves when working around the house. Moisten your arms and nails regularly. Take vitamins and minerals necessary for the health of nails. Use strengthening varnishes.

  2. Slow nail growth:

    • Reasons: Deficiency of nutrients, diseases, drugs.

    • Solutions: Observe a balanced diet. Take vitamins and minerals necessary for nail growth. Consult a doctor to exclude diseases.

  3. White spots on the nails (leikonichia):

    • Reasons: Injuries, deficiency of zinc, iron, calcium.

    • Solutions: Avoid nail injuries. Take vitamins and minerals necessary for the health of nails.

  4. Yellowing of nails:

    • Reasons: Smoking, the use of dark varnishes without a base coating, a fungal infection.

    • Solutions: Throw smoking. Use the base coating before applying varnish. Consult a doctor to treat a fungal infection.

  5. Nail fungal infection (onychomycosis):

    • Reasons: Infection with a fungus.

    • Solutions: Contact the dermatologist to prescribe antifungal drugs.

VI. Modern methods and technologies in the beauty of hair and nails

The beauty industry is constantly developing, offering new methods and technologies to improve the condition of hair and nails.

A. Hair:

  1. Mesotherapy for hair: The introduction of vitamins, minerals and amino acids into the scalp to stimulate hair growth and improve their quality.

  2. Plasmolyphing (PRP) for hair: The introduction of his own plasma of the patient, enriched with platelets, into the scalp to stimulate hair growth.

  3. Hair laser therapy: The use of laser radiation to stimulate blood circulation in the scalp and improve hair growth.

  4. Hair transplantation: The surgical method of hair restoration, consisting in the transplantation of hair follicles from the donor zone to the baldness area.

  5. Keratin hair straightening: The procedure for straightening hair using keratin, which makes the hair smooth, shiny and obedient.

  6. Hair extension: An increase in the length and volume of hair by adding artificial or natural strands.

B. Nogti:

  1. Ibx System: The system of restoration and strengthening of nails, which penetrates into the nail plate and strengthens it from the inside.

  2. Gel polish: Durable nail coating, which lasts up to 3 weeks and does not require frequent updating.

  3. Acrylic nail extension: Increase in length and strengthening of nails using acrylic powder and liquid.

  4. Spa-manicure and pedicure: Complex care for hands and legs, including cleansing, peeling, massage, moisturizing and applying varnish.

  5. Hardware manicure and pedicure: Using a special apparatus with various nozzles for processing nails and skin.

VII. Folk remedies for the beauty of hair and nails

Along with modern technologies, there are time -tested folk remedies that can help improve the condition of hair and nails.

A. Hair:

  1. Hair masks with burdock oil: Burdock oil strengthens the hair, stimulates their growth and prevents loss.

  2. Hair masks with castor oil: Castor oil strengthens the hair, gives it shine and accelerates growth.

  3. Hair rinsing with herbal decoctions: Decoctions of chamomile, nettles, burdock, oak bark strengthen hair, give it shine and improve their condition.

  4. Scalp massage: Scalp massage stimulates blood circulation and improves the nutrition of hair follicles.

  5. Egg mask for hair: The egg is rich in protein and vitamins that strengthen the hair and give it shine.

B. Nogti:

  1. Nail baths with sea salt: Sea salt strengthens the nails and prevents their stratification.

  2. Baths for nails with lemon juice: Lemon juice whitens the nails and strengthens them.

  3. Rub the olive oil in toe: Olive oil moisturizes nails and cuticle, makes them more elastic and prevents brittleness.

  4. Nail compresses with honey: Honey moisturizes and nourishes nails, helps to strengthen them.

  5. Massage cuticles with tea tree oil: Tea tree oil has antiseptic properties and helps prevent cuticle infections.

VIII. The effect of stress on hair and nails

Chronic stress has a negative effect on the entire body, including hair and nails.

A. The influence of stress on the hair:

  1. Hair loss: Stress can lead to heterogeneous hair loss, when a larger number of hair follicles passes into the dormancy phase (bodyogen).

  2. Gray hair: Stress can accelerate the appearance of gray hair.

  3. Slow down hair growth: Stress can slow down hair growth.

B. The influence of stress on the nails:

  1. Fitty nails: Stress can lead to fragility of nails.

  2. The appearance of white spots on the nails: Stress can lead to the appearance of white spots on the nails (leikonichia).

  3. Slow down nail growth: Stress can slow down nail growth.

  4. Onychophagia (the habit of gnawing nails): Stress is often the cause of onychophagia.

C. Ways to reduce stress:

  1. Regular physical exercises: Physical exercises help reduce stress and improve overall well -being.

  2. Meditation and yoga: Meditation and yoga help to relax and reduce stress.

  3. Sufficient sleep: The lack of sleep increases the level of stress. Try to sleep at least 7-8 hours a day.

  4. Proper nutrition: Proper nutrition helps maintain a stable blood sugar and reduce stress.

  5. Communication with loved ones: Communication with loved ones helps to reduce stress and improve mood.

  6. Hobbies: Classes of your favorite business help to relax and distract from stress.

IX. When to see a doctor

In most cases, problems with hair and nails can be solved using proper care and nutrition. However, in some cases it is necessary to consult a trichologist or dermatologist.

A. When to contact a trichologist:

  1. Intensive hair loss: If you notice intensive hair loss, which lasts more than a few weeks.

  2. Sudden baldness: If you suddenly have a baldness in individual parts of the head.

  3. Soreness of the scalp: If you have soreness, itching or redness of the scalp.

  4. Changing the structure of the hair: If your hair structure has changed, they have become thinner, brittle or dry.

B. When to contact a dermatologist:

  1. Nail fungal infection: If you have signs of a fungal infection of nails (change in color, thickness, shape of nails).

  2. Inflammation of the skin around the nails: If you have inflammation, redness or pus around nails.

  3. Nail deformation: If your nails deformed.

  4. The appearance of neoplasms on the nails: If you have neoplasms on the nails.

X. Psychological aspect of the beauty of hair and nails

The appearance of hair and nails plays an important role in self -esteem and self -confidence. Healthy and beautiful hair and nails can improve mood and improve overall well -being.

A. The influence of the appearance on self -esteem:

  1. Self -confidence: Healthy and beautiful hair and nails can increase self -confidence and improve self -esteem.

  2. Sono -experience: The appearance affects how we perceive ourselves and how others perceive us.

  3. Social interaction: The appearance can affect our social interaction and how we communicate with other people.

B. Having for oneself as a way of taking care of yourself:

  1. Beauty Ritual: Hair and nail care can become a pleasant ritual that helps to relax and distract from everyday worries.

  2. Caring for yourself: Having care is a way to take care of yourself and your health.

  3. Fun increase: Well -groomed hair and nails can improve mood and improve well -being.

In conclusion, the beauty of hair and nails is the result of an integrated approach, including proper nutrition, care, protection against external factors and stress management. Remember that health is the basis of beauty. Pay attention to your health, take care of yourself, and your hair and nails will delight you with your beauty and strength.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *