7 Hair Anatomy Terms You Need to Know Before Your Next Salon Trip

Ever found yourself nodding along to your stylist's chatter about hair porosity, cuticles, and keratin, all while feeling utterly lost? Fear not, because our Westboro hair wizards are here to decode these hair lingo mysteries for you! Sure, we're known for our fabulous hair colors and styles, but we're also big on educating our clients about their hair's inner workings. So, grab a seat and let's dive into 7 hair anatomy terms you should know before your next visit to Pierino Scarfo Hair Salon in Ottawa! 

What's the Deal with Hair Follicles? 

Think of hair follicles as tiny tubes nestled in your skin's layers, each housing a hair root. They're like your hair's HQ, responsible for growth and repair. With over 5 million follicles on your body, they're true multitaskers! But clogged follicles can lead to hair woes, so keep 'em clean with a healthy diet and gentle cleansers. 

Cracking the Cuticle Code 

Picture the hair cuticle as a protective shield for each strand, made up of overlapping cells like fish scales. Smooth and flat cuticles equal shiny, resilient hair. But beware – hot water and harsh products can crack open these shields, leading to damage. So, treat your cuticles right with hydrating masks and cold-water rinses! 

Meet the Cortex 

Sandwiched between the cuticle and medulla, the cortex is the hair's powerhouse. It holds most of the color pigments and determines your hair's texture. When damaged, your strands lose strength and bounce, so show your cortex some love with gentle treatments and heat protection. 

Hello, Medulla! 

Hidden within the hair shaft, the medulla is the strand's innermost layer, so delicate it's almost invisible. It's like the hair's soft, squishy core – though it's MIA in some hair types. 

Keratin: Hair's BFF 

Hair is 90% keratin, a protein built from amino acids found in your diet. It's the backbone of your strands, forming a protective shield at the follicle. When your hair craves a pick-me-up, look for keratin-infused products to restore its strength and shine! 

Understanding Hair Density 

Density refers to the number of strands per square inch on your scalp. Think of it as your hair's crowd size – the denser, the merrier! And don't mix it up with thickness, which determines how your hair reflects light and holds color. 

Cracking the Porosity Puzzle 

Porosity is your hair's moisture game – how well it absorbs and holds onto water. From low to high, there are three types: low, medium, and high. Genetics, heat, and UV exposure all play a role. So, know your porosity level and tailor your hair care routine accordingly! 

Conclusion 

Armed with these hair anatomy nuggets, you're ready to tackle your next salon session like a pro! Understanding these terms gives you insight into our methods, product recommendations, and your hair's behavior. Don't worry about becoming a hair science expert – that's what the skilled stylists at Pierino Scarfo Hair Salon, Ottawa's ultimate hair haven, are here for! 

For any hair-related questions, don't hesitate to ask our Westboro hair stylists during your next salon visit. Follow us on social media @pierinoscarfo.salon, and explore our services and pricing on our website at www.pierinoscarfo.com  

Cheers,  

The Hair Stylist Specialists at Pierino Scarfo Hair Salon in Westboro, Ottawa.