Extractable Substances from Human Hair: A Discussion About the Origin of the Holes

The study described the presence of holes in the endocuticle, inter-macrofibrilar matrix, and cell membrane complex of mature hair fibers, which were absent in hair follicles. These holes were likely formed due to the removal of extractable substances during daily hair care actions, such as washing with surfactants. The research suggested that cell remnants in young hair fibers might correspond to the holes observed in mature fibers. The findings indicated that surfactants significantly contributed to hole formation by acting on extractable substances within the hair cortex and cuticle.