Follicle.com - Structure of Hair

Structure of Hair

Hair is composed of strong structural protein called keratin. This is the same kind of protein that makes up the nails and the outer layer of skin.

Each strand of hair consists of three layers.

1) An innermost layer or medulla which is only present in large thick hairs.

2) The middle layer known as the cortex. The cortex provides strength and both the color and the texture of hair.

3) The outermost layer is known as the cuticile. The cuticle is thin and colorless and serves as a protector of the cortex.