Understanding Three Different Human Hair Thickness Levels

Have you ever wondered about the variety of hair characteristics that people possess, from hair color and texture to density and thickness? Each person has their unique set of hair features, and it’s essential to appreciate and embrace the diversity of hair types.

What Is the Diameter of Human Hair?

Hair thickness, often referred to as hair diameter, is the measurement of the width of an individual hair strand. It’s important to distinguish between hair thickness and hair density, as these terms are sometimes confused.

Hair density pertains to the quantity of hair follicles on a person’s scalp, focusing on the count rather than the width of the individual strands. Higher hair density leads to greater volume. Both hair thickness and density contribute to the overall fullness and appearance of one’s hair, and they are interconnected. Just as there are varying levels of hair density, hair thickness can also vary among individuals.

Why Do People Have Varied Hair Thickness?

Human hair thickness isn’t standardized, as it’s influenced by individual genetic factors. This variability in hair thickness is also linked to differences in hair textures, colors, and densities among people. Additionally, factors such as geographic location and age play a role in determining hair thickness. Hair strands tend to thicken in tropical climates and as individuals mature.

Furthermore, the natural color of one’s hair contributes to variations in strand thickness, with black hair typically being thicker compared to other hair colors. External factors like lifestyle choices and hair care products can also impact hair strength and thickness. This is why there are specialized shampoos available for individuals with thin strands, aimed at strengthening and thickening the hair.

Variations in Human Hair Thickness

When referring to hair types, you often encounter a combination of numbers and letters. The numerical values correspond to hair texture, ranging from 1 for very straight hair to 4 for the tightest curls. The alphabetical letters, on the other hand, describe the width or thickness of individual hair strands.

Fine

• Diameter: 50 microns
• Description: Fine hair typically consists of only two layers, the cortex, which provides color and contains Keratin filaments, and the cuticle, responsible for protection, shine, and moisture retention.
• Hairstyles: Fine hair may pose a challenge for achieving a full hairstyle appearance. However, styling it with blunt ends can create the illusion of greater thickness, making it suitable for stunning angled bob hairstyles.

Medium

• Diameter: 70 microns
• Description: Medium hair shares similarities with fine hair, having both cortex and cuticle layers. However, medium hair may occasionally feature the medulla, a soft, thin core found in the middle of the hair strand.
• Hairstyles: Medium hair offers more styling versatility compared to fine hair. It has the ideal thickness to hold hairstyles effectively and is less prone to brittleness, making it more resilient.

Thick

• Diameter: 120 microns
• Description: Thick hair boasts all three layers – cortex, cuticle, and medulla. This thickness provides a naturally full appearance, even with medium density.
• Hairstyles: Thick hair is highly versatile, capable of accommodating a wide range of hairstyles and enduring heat and styling products. It is also the most robust among the different thickness levels. However, it may require longer drying times and can be more susceptible to frizz.

Now that you have a grasp of the various hair thicknesses, you can assess your own. If you’re concerned about having thin hair, you can explore various hacks and tips to address this.

Conclusion

Determining the thickness of your hair, whether it’s fine, medium, or thick, can help you better understand your hair’s characteristics and tailor your hair care routines and styling choices accordingly. While accurately measuring hair diameter is intricate, these practical methods can provide valuable approximations.

By comparing your hair to the thickness of a standard copy paper, gauging the tactile sensation of a hair strand, or using sewing thread as a reference, you can gain insights into your hair’s thickness level. Understanding your hair’s thickness can guide you in selecting appropriate products, hairstyles, and maintenance practices to keep your hair healthy and looking its best. Embracing and appreciating your hair’s unique characteristics, regardless of its thickness, is key to maintaining beautiful and confident locks.