
When we categorize and care for hair, we consider factors such as thickness, length, and texture; however, many people overlook a more important factor - hair density. If you believe that hair density is the same as hair thickness, you are mistaken. Let us discuss what hair density is.
The number of hairs per square inch of the scalp is referred to as hair density. The average person's head has about 200 hairs per square inch. A high hair-density individual may have 300-400 hairs per square inch, whereas a low hair density individual may have only 50-100 hairs per square inch.
On average, humans typically have between 80,000 and 120,000 hairs. Hair density does not indicate health, but malnourished people have less hair density.
Race and age may also influence hair density. In 2017, researchers compared the hair density of African and Caucasian people to that of Hispanics. According to the study, Caucasians with natural hair had the highest hair density, while people of African descent had the lowest. Another study discovered that the older you get, the more likely it is that you will have less hair density.
Hair thickness is the circumference of each hair, whereas hair density is the thickness of the entire group of hair. That is, someone's hair could be very fine but also very dense, or it could be very thick but very thin.
This hair density appears thin and low, and it necessitates more styling products than other types because it flattens out quickly.
If you have thin hair, you should avoid using heavy products like oils and conditioners, which can weigh it down. Look for volumizing shampoos, dry shampoos, and mousses to add volume to your hair. Hairstyles that add volume to the hair make it appear thicker.
The density of hair is normal/medium. Most people have normal hair density, but it can vary from person to person. Normal-density hair is neither thick nor thin, and it usually requires only a few styling products to look good.
If you have medium density hair, there isn't much you can do to change the volume of your hair. While experimenting with different hairstyles and products, you can concentrate on products that help keep your hair healthy.
The final major type is high density hair, which appears thick and full throughout its length, indicating a lot of volume.
If you have dense hair, you may need to use heavier styling products like gels and butter to keep it stuck and under control. Serums and oils aid in the reduction of frizz. Styles that eliminate excess volume may suit you best.
Knowing the density of your hair can help you care for it better. Counting the number of individual strands per hair follicle in 1-inch increments provides the most accurate measurement. Because manually counting strands is impractical and time-consuming, researchers frequently use an imaging technique known as hair examination to obtain results in this manner.
If you're curious about your hair type and want to know how dense your hair is, try these at-home methods.
✬ Pull your dry hair into a ponytail and secure it with a hair tie.
✬ Wrap a ribbon around the ponytail to complete the look.
✬ Measure the circumference of the loop with a ruler.
✬ Your hair may be less dense if it is less than 2 inches long. If the circumference is greater than 2 to 3 inches, you may have medium density hair, while 4 inches or more indicates high density hair.
✬ Maintain a dry hairstyle and face the mirror, directly beneath the overhead light.
✬ Tilt your head to reveal your scalp.
✬ Your hair may be less dense if your scalp is visible. If you can barely see your scalp, you may have medium or high density hair.
Hair density, like other aspects of hair such as color and texture, is determined by genetics. Hair grows from hair follicles, and the number of follicles cannot be altered. Hair transplantation may help cover scattered areas of hair growth, but there is currently no way to change this if you were born with low hair density. Eating a healthy diet can help you increase your hair density.
Hair loss or thinning hair may occur if you are nutrient deficient. Eating a well-balanced diet and getting enough protein can help you avoid hair loss.
Accepting the density of your hair, whether thick or thin, can bring you peace of mind. Learning to love your hair, from gorgeous curls to thin tendrils, can make it easier to manage and more fun.
Speak with your stylist about updating your look with a flattering new hairstyle, and get started on a comprehensive wellness routine that includes a nutritious diet and clinically proven products to promote thicker, fuller, and healthier hair.