Hair is a complex natural composite composed of different morphologic components. It is primarily composed of a protein called keratin (65%-95% of the hair). It is formed by follicular epidermis cells and contains a central core, known as the pith (or medulla), which has the role of thermal insulation and nutrient storage. The medulla is covered by a layer of cells known as the cuticle, which acts as a protective layer to protect the underlying tissues from hydration loss. Hair consists of three primary parts: the root, the shaft and the cuticle. The root is the part that grows into the scalp. The shaft is the portion of the hair that is visible to the eye. The cuticle is the outermost layer of the hair.

The most common type of hair is straight dark hair found amongst East Asians, Southeast Asians and Polynesians, wavy hair amongst Europeans and West Africans and curly hair amongst Sub Saharan Africans. The color of human hair is also very diverse, ranging from black to white. The chromatic variation is caused by the varying amounts of melanin pigment in each hair. The color of the hair is influenced by many genes as well as environmental factors such as sun exposure, diet, stress and hormones.

A common belief is that the color of the hair is determined by the amount of melanin in the hair. This is incorrect, since the color of the hair is regulated by the melanocytes located in the dermis, which are responsible for the production and release of melanin pigment.

While most of the other great apes have lost their body hair, humans retain some neotenous features such as vellus hair, which is juvenile. This may be a result of sexual differentiation in men.

Hair has numerous functions, including thermoregulation, protection from mechanical abrasion and social communication. Hair on the head and face provides modest protection from UV rays. It also acts as a filter, reducing UV radiation that would otherwise reach the sensitive dermis of the skin. Hair also serves to signal arousal, and the length of hair is an indicator of sex in some cultures.

Hair is a symbol of femininity, and women typically prefer long hair to short. However, this preference is not universal. Some people like to experiment with different colors and styles of hair. One way to do this is by purchasing human hair wigs, which are durable and easy to style. When buying a wig, it is important to do your research to find a product that will suit you. Make sure to read reviews online before making your purchase. Also, look for a wig that is easy to wear and does not require extra adhesives. This will save you time and money. A good quality wig should last for several years, especially if it is made from ethically sourced human hair. If you’re a beginner, opt for an easy-to-wear style such as a U-part or V-part wig.