1. INTRODUCTION
1. Justification
Did you know that, on average, human hair grows about half an inch per month? Now, imagine
doubling that growth rate, you could achieve your dream hair in half the time. Hair is a very
important component in our appearance, and therefore taking care of it properly should be
relevant. The market offers a wide range of products promising hair growth, each one of them
claiming to be the most effective and safe solution. But despite the amount of options, there is still
a lack of knowledge about the topic.
To understand hair growth, it's essential to know the basic structure of hair, which consists of the
visible hair shaft and the root that extends into the skin layers. The root includes the hair follicles,
the arrector pili muscle (responsible for making hair stand up), and at the base, the hair bulb and
papilla where new cells are created. Hair growth is based on the cycle phases. The anagen is
where the cell production in the hair bulb leads to growth, followed by the catagen phase, in this
period the hair root separates from the papilla, making the hair ready for the next phase. The final
stage is the telogen phase, hair shedding occurs as the hair is being pushed from the follicle, with
an average person shedding 50 to 100 hairs daily new hairs can start to grow in the empty follicles,
continuing the cycle.
Investigating hair growth is important for several reasons. In the scientific area, it would contribute
to our general knowledge as a non-informed society towards hair structure, creating an impact for
individuals to be conscient while buying hair care products. This understanding could also make
an advancement into treating hair loss conditions which nowadays affect many people around.
The contribution this investigation could make into hair growth would be enhancing self esteem,
well being and confidence in our society. But more importantly this research would influence the
beauty industry by setting new and more realistic standards for the products to accomplish,
encouraging brands in the industry to base on reliable scientific information to create products
other than in marketing and chemicals. Addressing them as well, to create and develop new
methodologies, including advanced techniques on molecular biology tools, to observe hair follicle
behavior and the amount of cells an individual develops in a certain period of time. Generally
speaking, the research can impact some very important aspects in terms of protecting the
consumer. Since it could also change some policies that might include regulations on hair care
product components, ensuring they are supported by scientific evidence, thus protecting
consumers from false advertising and unsafe products.
My personal motivation for focusing my research into the hair field stems from the condition of
my own hair. Over time, it has been under extensive damage due to multiple chemical
treatments and harmful habits such as pulling my hair out. I struggle with a disorder known
as thricotillomania, characterized by “an irresistible urge to pull out one’s hair, leading to
noticeable hair loss and significant distress”. While I have managed to control this condition,
I am aware of potential future consequences. This realization has motivated my recent urge
for caring for my hair. But even though I have looked on the internet and social media for
recommendations, I haven't found a guide that can lead my way into hair care properly.
