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SEM of a damaged human head hair with a split end
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SEM of a damaged human head hair with a split end
Scanning electron micrograph (SEM), of a damaged & split end of a human head hair. Hair is a fibrous protein (keratin), which develops out of a tubular hair follicle in the epidermis of the skin. The shaft, the part visible, consists of three layers: an outer layer or cuticle, which is scaly in normal hair but has been lost in this specimen. Beneath is the cortex containing hair colour pigments. The medulla forms the central core, which may be hollow. Hair cells are dead except for a layer at the base of the root where they divide to form new cells, pushing the older ones upward. Magnification: X 185 at 35mm size, 1300 at 8x10-inch size
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Media ID 6423324
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This print showcases a close-up view of a damaged human head hair with a split end, captured using scanning electron microscopy. The intricate details of the hair structure are revealed in this stunning image. Hair, composed primarily of fibrous protein called keratin, grows from tubular hair follicles embedded within the epidermis of our skin. In this specimen, the outer layer or cuticle that typically forms scales on normal hair has been lost due to damage. Below the cuticle lies the cortex, which houses pigments responsible for our unique hair coloration. At its core is the medulla, which may appear hollow. Interestingly, these individual strands we see are no longer alive; they represent remnants of once-living cells that have undergone a remarkable transformation over time. Only at the base of each strand do living cells exist – here they divide and generate new cells that gradually push older ones upwards. The level of magnification used to capture this image is truly awe-inspiring: X 185 at 35mm size or an astonishing 1300 at an 8x10-inch size! This allows us to appreciate every minute detail and gain insight into the complex anatomy and composition of human hair.
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