The science behind hair
Solving real hair problems with innovative engineering.
The hair lifecycle
- 7 A hair's lifespan in years
- 100 The number of strands we can lose each day
- 150,000 Hairs on a human head
Science, not guesswork
At Dyson, we’re driven by a need to know. We're obsessed with the chemistry of hair and develop our haircare technology through our research into hair science. No guesswork, no gimmicks, just tried and tested science.
What your hair type means for you
Understanding your hair structure and type can help you learn how to take proper care of your hair, alongside which technology is best for you. We can roughly categorise 'hair shapes' into four main groups. Each is then subcategorised into types A, B, C, to describe the intensity of the curl pattern.
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Type 1 A, B, C
Straight to wavy hair. Straighter hair has a round cross-sectional area. This hair type can see more visible oil-builds ups and therefore require more frequent washing.
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Type 2 A, B, C
Wavy to curly hair. Type 2 hair structure is often described as having a wavy ’S’ shape with a round cross-sectional area, and is flatter than type 1 hair. This hair type also requires regular washing as oil can progress down the hair strand more easily.
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Type 3 A, B, C
Curly hair with tighter ringlets. Curly hair can be prone to dryness, due to a lack of sebum (our natural oil) across the hair shaft. To support this hair structure, it’s important not to use excessive heat when styling, and to retain as much natural oil as possible.
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Type 4 A, B, C
Curly to coily hair. Type 4 hair has a flatter, more ellipsoid shape, which forms tight coils. These can tangle more easily and be fragile when exposed to excessive heat. Type 4 hair can also be washed less regularly.
Hair density vs hair thickness
Hair shape isn’t the only factor that informs hair science. Thickness and Density also impact hair chemistry and which haircare technology supports it. Density is the number of strands you have, while thickness refers to the width of the strand.
If you're not sure what strand width your hair is, take a piece and rub between two fingers. If it feels like cotton, your hair is coarse. If you can barely feel it, your hair is fine.
Avoiding exposure to excessive heat
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Maintaining scalp health
Dyson's Intelligent heat control helps protect scalp health barrier by regulating itself against excessive heat, maintaining your scalp's moisture levels when styling.
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Retaining moisture
Excessive heat can make hair more porous – meaning it can gain or lose water easily. The imbalance can weaken hair and reduce style retention.
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Preventing breakage
Overexposure to excessive temperatures can weaken the chemistry of hair – down to the bonds. Losing strength and elasticity over time can make it prone to breakage.
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Maintaining shine
Hair can look dull if damaged, as a result of cuticles lifting and scattering light. But when hair is healthy and aligned, it reflects light evenly – giving it that shiny appearance.
In a recent survey, 70% of people said they are concerned about their scalp.
Dyson Global Hair Survey
2023
Globally, 7/10 respondents say their hair is damaged.
Dyson Global Hair Survey
2023
'The best way to healthy hair is through prevention and minimising exposure to causes of damage.'
Rob Smith, Dyson Senior Hair Specialist
2022
What is a healthy scalp?
Healthy scalp, healthy growth
Scalp health is crucial to strand health. The first two weeks of hair follicle growth determines how strands form and grow, and a damaged scalp barrier can impact this. To support hair growth, its important to protect scalp health too.nt – to support healthy hair growth, it’s important to protect scalp health too.
Balancing act
The scalp consists of a complex microbiome, but an imbalance can lead to skin irritation, inflammation and follicle damage. Other factors can include genetics, hormones, pollution and extreme weather.
Cleaning up myths
Washing your hair regularly promotes a healthy scalp microbiome and can keep your hair free of pollutants. However, ‘training your scalp to become less oily by washing it less' is a myth. Remember that balance is key.
For each hair type
Consider your hair structure and type when washing or treating your hair, as the requirements can vary. For example, some hair types may need different frequencies and formulations to maintain healthy hydration levels
The Dyson Solution
At Dyson, we strive to create machines which avoid excessive heat. By precisely engineering technology for your hair type, we can create the great styles while avoiding damage.
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Dyson Supersonic™ Nural hair dryer
The Dyson Supersonic Nural™ hair dryer delivers fast, intelligent drying with no heat damage. Scalp protect mode auto-adapts heat to care for your scalp.
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Dyson Airstrait™ straightener
Wet to dry straightening with air. No hot plates. No heat damage.¹ The Dyson Airstrait™ straightener straightens from wet to dry, simplifying your routine.
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Dyson Airwrap™ multi-styler and dryer
Combining powerful airflow with Intelligent heat control, the Dyson Airwrap™ multi-styler and dryer can create multiple styles using the Coanda effect, not excessive heat.
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Dyson Corrale™ straightener
The cord-free Dyson Corrale™ straightener features flexing manganese copper alloy plates, for enhanced styling. Designed for more control and reduced reliance on heat.
Avoiding mechanical damage
Using abrasive, physical tools on your hair can roughen cuticles and cause strand friction, breaking down hair structure in the process. Dyson has invested £100m into global hair laboratories to create devices which are specifically designed to avoid breakage.
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Specifically engineered accessories
Improve your hair styling routine and support hair structure with our range of accessories. Thoroughly researched, each accessory has been prototyped numerous times until we’re completely satisfied with the performance and endurance.
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Research-led attachments
Engineered to upgrade and enhance your styling routine, create versatile styles and finish your look while avoiding excessive heat. Created with your hair health in mind, they have been designed to be comfortable to use on your hair and scalp.
Owner support
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