Hair serves a protective function, but it is also important to physical appearance. Brittle hair affects the appearance and performance of the hair. Brittleness of hair can result in frequent breakage, difficulty combing and a dry, frizzy appearance. Causes of brittle hair range from physical damage to the hair to genetic and systemic conditions.
Hair grows from a follicle within the skin. Each hair has three layers: the medulla, cortex and cuticle. The cuticle is the outermost layer of the hair, consisting of dead cells that overlap each other. Most of the cells of the cuticle contain the protein keratin, the same substance contained in skin and nails, according to DermNet NZ.
A genetic or systemic medical condition can cause the hair to be brittle from the outset. Physical damage to the hair causes brittleness farther from the roots.
Psychological Stress
The "Archives of Dermatology" published a study in January 2001 that examined the influences of psychological stress on skin conditions. The conclusion reached by study researchers was that psychological stress does play a role in skin disorders. Hair, as an extension of the skin, may also be affected. The Science Daily website reports that Flor A. Mayoral, M.D., clinical instructor in both the dermatology and cutaneous surgery departments of the University of Miami's Miller School of Medicine, gave a presentation in November 2007 to the American Academy of Dermatology's SKIN Academy. Mayoral's presentation included her observations of hundreds of patients who experienced exacerbations in both skin and hair conditions during periods of increased psychological stress.
Sun Damage
Damage from sun and the elements is another cause of brittle hair. The "International Journal of Trichology," in its July 2009 edition, published a review concerning the effects of the sun on hair aging. The review states that the sun causes physical and chemical damages to the hair such as loss of hair's mechanical strength and increased porousness of the hair shaft.
Hair Styling and Chemicals
DermNet NZ advises that physical damage is the most frequent cause of brittle hair. In addition to stress and sun damage, brittle hair may be caused by the application of chemicals to the hair, such as dye or permanent solutions. Over-grooming of hair, the use of heated appliances and tension placed on hair from ponytails or braids may also lead to brittle hair.
Poor Nutrition and Illness
Poor nutrition can lead to brittle hair. Eating disorders such as bulemia and anorexia nervosa may result in hair brittleness. It is also a symptom of some autoimmune conditions such as overactive thyroid and systemic lupus erythematosus.
Warning
Consult your health care provider to determine if there are any underlying medical conditions that are causing your brittle hair.
References
- DermNet NZ: Defects of the Hair Shaft
- Science Daily: Feeling Stressed? How Your Skin, Hair And Nails Can Show It
- "Archives of Dermatology": Psychological Stress Perturbs Epidermal Permeability Barrier Homeostasis, Amit Garg et al, January 2001
- PubMed.gov: Photoaggravation of Hair Aging
- "The New York Times": Health Guide: Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
- WomensHealth.gov: Autoimmune Diseases
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