Types of Hair Bonds.

There is so much that goes into hair, however, a part that doesn't get as much coverage is understanding the type of hair bonds in your hair strands. As we all know your hair is composed of 95% keratin,  
a type of structural fibrous protein that contains polypeptide chains that are elongated and fibrous or have a sheet-like structure.  Even though it may sound intense a polypeptide chain is simply a  continuous chain of amino acids held by chemical bonds.  There are 3 types of these bonds that stabilize the keratin structure of your hair strand, they are Hydrogen Bonds, Salt/Ionic Bonds, and Covalent Bonds.

 

Each of these bonds plays a key part in maintaining your hair's strength, elasticity, and moisture levels, which contribute to the overall integrity of the strand. Understanding these different types of hair care bonds is crucial for maintaining healthy and strong hair.

Disulfide bonds are the strongest type of hair bond and are responsible for the overall shape and structure of the hair. These bonds form between two sulfur atoms on different amino acids in the hair shaft. Disulfide bonds are responsible for the curl pattern of hair and are often broken down during chemical processes such as coloring or perming.

To repair and preserve disulfide bonds in hair strands and prevent further damage, it is important to use credible products whose aim is to repair these bonds. Avoid excessive heat styling or chemical treatments to minimize damage to the hair shafts and maintain healthy disulfide bonds.

 

Hydrogen bonds are weaker than disulfide bonds but still play an important role in the structure of the hair. These bonds form between water molecules and the protein chains in the hair strand. Hydrogen bonds are responsible for the temporary shape of the hair, such as when hair is curled with a curling iron. These bonds can be broken and reformed with heat or moisture.

To repair and preserve hydrogen bonds in hair, it is important to use a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner. This will help to hydrate the hair strands and rebuild the hydrogen bonds. Additionally, using a deep conditioning mask or hot oil treatment once or twice a week can help to keep the hair hydrated and strengthen the hydrogen bonds.

 

Salt bonds are the weakest type of hair bond and are formed between positively and negatively charged amino acids in the hair strand. These bonds are responsible for the elasticity and flexibility of the hair. Salt bonds can be broken down by changes in pH levels, such as when using alkaline hair products. To repair and preserve salt bonds in hair, it is important to use pH-balanced (5.5) hair products, this will help to restore the natural balance of the hair and rebuild the salt bonds.

 

In summary, disulfide, hydrogen, and salt bonds all play important roles in the structure and strength of human hair strands. Understanding these hair bonds can help you make informed decisions about how to care for your hair and help you reach your hair goals.