No two persons have the exact hair. The same way different races have different complexion, it’s the same way different races have different hair types. There are three main hair types depending on race – Asian, Afro-Caribbean and Caucasian – all types having their own distinct features. In spite of how different hair types are, they comprised of the same parts. These are the cuticle, cortex, medulla and a very important protein named keratin which is the chief component of all. What determines the shape of the hair is the shape of each hair follicle. Asian hair grows from round hair follicles giving it a extremely straight look. Asian hair has very thick cuticles made up of approximately ten layers while other hair types have approximately five.
Asian hair type is the most prevailing in the whole world. It normally has smaller thickness than the next hair types but it grows faster than the rest by far regarding speed of growth. The amount of hair on the head in Asians is minimal but due to the thickness it looks dense. It has been found that Asian hair reacts more quickly to hair care products, especially, hair loss products. It is believed that this has to do with the natural speed of hair growth that Asian hair has. Asian hair is also stronger than other hair types and more able to recover from hair damages and it also has the longest cycle of growth which last up to nine years. Formerly, Asian hair type was the least vulnerable but lately Asians have been adopting the procedures of the western world. These habits can cause very thin hair as Asian hair in not very crowded.
Every hair type needs different hair care practices and products to supply the requirements of that specific hair type. Asian hair absorbs moisture very fast and maintains that moisture. In spite of this, Asian hair may undergo extra dryness. This is because Asian hair tends to be very long and therefore moisture is lost along the long hair shaft. Hair loss in Asians is little because few hairs are lost per day. Balding is also a rare occurrence in Asians. Asian hair is usually shine because of the existence of a medulla comprising dark pigment which justifies the shininess and high moisture. Asians generally have oily scalp which demands the hair to be washed frequently to prevent a dirty appearance.
Because Asian hair is long, straight, strong and generally free from chemical impairment it is the ideal hair to use for extensions. As a result, persons resort to Asian countries for human hair to be used in wig manufacture and extensions.
Asian hair requires the use of products that are appropriate for that specific type of hair. Shampoos that have a pH of 5 to 5.5 is suitable; anything exceeding that pH would be too harsh. Persons of Asian origin must keep away from using products like mineral oil.
Asian hairstyles are typically unique. They usually appear to be sleek, smooth and silky. They are also generally very straight and flowing. Hairstylists agree that Asian hair is harder to curl and colour when compared to other hair types. Digital hot perm machines are practical in styling Asian hair as they can be set to provide the correct heat and chemical solution for any hair type. Asian hair is dark and therefore adding highlights to it can truly improve the appearance of the hair. Double-sided colouring is a great way to augment Asian hair. The underside is coloured in a dark brown shade and a lighter shade is dyed on top. This gives a shimmering effect when the hairs rub against each other.
Find more tips here on how to braid hair.