HARRINGTON’S — Advanced Guide to Understanding the Hair Follicle

1. What is a Hair Follicle?

A hair follicle is a complex mini-organ located within the skin, responsible for producing and growing each strand of hair.
It consists of multiple living structures that work together to regulate growth, thickness, strength, and the lifespan of the hair.

Healthy follicles = healthy hair.
When follicles are nourished, clean, and unobstructed, the hair grows thicker, stronger, and less prone to breakage.

2. Structure of the Hair Follicle (Detailed)

Hair Shaft

The visible part of the hair that emerges above the scalp.
Made of keratin, it has no nerve or blood supply.

Follicle Canal

The tunnel through which the hair grows upward toward the scalp surface.

Hair Bulb

The enlarged base of the follicle — this is the “engine” of hair growth.
Here, new hair cells rapidly divide and push upward to form the hair strand.

Dermal Papilla (The Control Center)

Located at the very bottom of the follicle.
It contains capillaries (tiny blood vessels) that supply oxygen, nutrients, and growth signals.
Healthy circulation in the papilla is essential for strong hair.

Sebaceous (Oil) Gland

Attached to the follicle.
Produces sebum, which:

• Keeps the scalp moisturized

• Protects the hair shaft

• Prevents dryness and breakage

Inner & Outer Root Sheath

These layers protect the developing hair and guide its shape and thickness.

Arrector Pili Muscle

A small muscle that causes “goosebumps” and helps push natural oils along the hair shaft.

3. The Hair Growth Cycle

Hair does not grow continuously — it moves through a repeating cycle:

1. Anagen — Active Growth Phase

• Lasts 2–7 years

• 85–90% of your hair is in this phase

• Faster cell division = stronger hair

• Nutrition and scalp health directly impact this phase

2. Catagen — Transition Phase

• Lasts 10–14 days

• The follicle shrinks

• Hair separates from its blood supply

3. Telogen — Resting Phase

• Lasts 3–4 months

• Old hair rests while new hair begins forming underneath

4. Exogen — Shedding Phase

• Old hair falls out

• New hair pushes through the follicle

A healthy scalp keeps follicles in anagen (growth) longer and makes the transition phases more efficient.

4. Factors That Affect Hair Follicle Health

Internal Factors

• Nutrition deficiencies (iron, zinc, vitamin D, biotin)

• Hormonal imbalance (DHT sensitivity)

• Stress and cortisol

• Genetics

• Medications

External Factors

• Heat styling

• Harsh shampoos

• Chemical treatments

• UV exposure

• Pollution

• Product buildup

• Hard water minerals

Unhealthy follicles struggle to produce strong hair and may become miniaturized over time.

5. Follicle Damage — What It Looks Like

• Reduced hair density

• Thinning and finer strands

• Increased shedding

• Dry, irritated, or flaky scalp

• Follicles blocked by sebum, oils, waxes, or product residue

• Slow hair growth

• Weak roots that shed easily

These issues are reversible with consistent scalp care and proper treatment.

6. Scalp Biology & Why It Matters

The scalp has:

• More oil glands than the rest of the body

• High blood supply

• Constant exposure to heat, sweat, and environmental toxins

This makes the scalp prone to:

• Inflammation

• Build-up

• Clogged pores

• Microbial imbalance

A clean, hydrated, balanced scalp = optimal environment for hair growth.

7. How to Keep Hair Follicles Healthy

1. Detox the Scalp Regularly

Removes:

• Dead skin

• Oil plugs

• Product buildup

• Hard water minerals
  This helps follicles “unblock” and breathe again.

2. Use Growth Serums on the Scalp, Not the Hair Shaft

Scalp serums (like Harrington’s Hair Growth Serum) deliver active ingredients directly to the follicle:

• Boosts circulation

• Supplies nutrients

• Supports stronger growth

• Reduces shedding

3. Improve Blood Circulation

Daily scalp massage increases oxygen and nutrition to the follicle.

4. Maintain Proper Nutrition

Hair is 90% protein — adequate nutrition is required for growth.

5. Reduce Excess Sebum and Buildup

Keeps pores open and prevents follicle suffocation.

6. Avoid Harsh Products

Sulfates, drying alcohols, and heavy wax-based styling products damage follicles long-term.

8. Why Harrington’s Formulas Support Follicle Health

Harrington’s treatments are formulated to:

• Restore scalp balance

• Nourish follicles with premium oils and active ingredients

• Improve circulation and oxygen supply

• Hydrate roots without clogging pores

• Strengthen the hair shaft at the base

Our blend of botanical oils and scientifically backed actives creates a healthy environment for stronger, denser, and healthier-looking hair.