Find the mysterious component of hair

Scientists have discovered a new, previously unknown layer in human hair. This discovery can help make more effective shampoo and conditioner products.

Mysterious composition of hair fibers

For a long time, hair is still thought to be composed of 3 layers: the core (medulla) in the center of the hair; the middle layer (cortex) occupies the largest volume of hair and contains pigments; and the cuticle (outer layer).

However, scientists used radiography to study hair, discovered a new intermediate layer in a cross section of the hair, between the epidermis and the middle layer. The team also discovered that the new layer appears to be made of a different type of protein than other parts of the hair shaft and that this type of protein is more commonly found in reptile scales and feathers.

The findings could fundamentally change the way scientists see the structure of human hair.

Dr. Vesna Stanic from the Brazilian synchrotron light source said that the new keratin fibers in the class seem to be different from the rest of the hair.

Prior to the research of Dr. Stanic and colleagues, human hair was once thought to consist of only one fibrous protein called alpha keratin as well as certain minerals and lipids. Therefore, Stanic's team was amazed to discover the absence of a key diffraction feature of alpha keratin in the area between the epidermis and the middle layer of a hair. The diffraction pattern obtained, instead, corresponds to beta keratin.

Beta keratin is a fibrous protein, arranged in plaques or bundles, often found in feathers and bird beaks as well as claws and scales of reptiles. Experts say, similar in animals, beta keratin in human hair can also be between structural roles, increasing the strength of hair fibers.

If this is true, it can provide useful information to help scientists develop new, more effective hair care products.