Hair follicles are the "factories" that produce hair strands, while hair germ cells, likened to "seeds", play a crucial role in new hair formation. When these cells function optimally, hair grows consistently and robustly. Conversely, weakened hair follicles or impaired hair germ cell activity can lead to slow growth, thinner strands, weakness, and increased shedding. Therefore, achieving strong, healthy hair requires nurturing from the hair follicles, not just caring for the visible hair.

Doctor Hoang Quyet Tien, from the Medical Information Center at Tam Anh General Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City, outlines signs indicating healthy hair from the root.

Shiny and elastic hair

Healthy hair typically has a relatively smooth surface with a well-protected cuticle layer, allowing it to reflect light and create a natural shine. Prolonged exposure to heat, chemicals, or friction can damage the cuticle, leading to dry, brittle hair that loses its luster.

Elasticity is another notable sign. Healthy hair strands possess a certain degree of stretch when subjected to gentle force, returning close to their original state. In contrast, weak or damaged hair often breaks easily when pulled or brushed. However, these indicators primarily reflect the quality of the hair shaft and are not sufficient to assess the health of the hair beneath the scalp.

Strong roots, no abnormal hair loss

Hair shedding more than usual, a widening part, thinning hair, or the appearance of many short, weak strands can signal concerns about hair follicle health. Hair loss can be linked to various factors including: genetics, hormonal changes, stress, nutrition, or underlying health conditions.

Doctor Tien states that losing about 50-100 hair strands daily is considered normal for many individuals. However, if the rate of shedding increases significantly or hair becomes progressively sparse and thin, individuals should seek medical examination to determine the cause, rather than solely focusing on treating the hair shaft.

Illustration of hair strand structure. *Photo: Eco Pharmaceutical Joint Stock Company*

Clean, healthy scalp

Healthy hair from the root is typically accompanied by a stable scalp, free from itching, flaking, or excessive dandruff. An overly oily, inflamed, or frequently irritated scalp can negatively impact the environment surrounding hair follicles.

Hair care should extend beyond shampoos, conditioners, or immediate softening products. It requires maintaining a clean scalp, limiting heat and chemical exposure, getting adequate sleep, and ensuring a diet rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals.

According to Doctor Tien, maintaining strong, healthy hair necessitates caring for the hair follicles, hair germ cells, and hair shaft. In addition to diet, certain nutrients such as: cynatine, horsetail extract, and pumpkin seed for women; and cynatine, saw palmetto, black garlic, and American ginseng for men can support nourishing and protecting hair germ cells, thereby reducing breakage and shedding.

Dinh Dieu