What Happens To Hair That Falls Out?

Last Updated on September 24, 2023 by Emily

Hair that falls out will eventually disintegrate and become dust. However, it can take many years for this to happen. It is because hair is made of a rigid material known as keratin. This protein is solid and resilient, which is why hair strands can last long after they fall out. A hair strand is a bone, and just like other bones in our body, it is made up of minerals.

In the meantime, fallen hair strands can accumulate on surfaces such as carpets and clothing. If you have ever found hair on your clothes or at home, it likely came from someone else.
The average person loses anywhere from 50 to 100 strands per day. This is perfectly normal and nothing to be concerned about. However, if you are losing more than this, it could be a sign of a medical condition. If you are concerned about hair loss, please consult a doctor or medical professional.

Worth Of Human Hair Industry

Hair extensions are a big business. The hair extension industry is worth over $1 billion in the United States alone. And a large portion of that comes from the sale of human hair.

There are many different grades of human hair, and the highest quality is often referred to as “Remy” hair. This type of hair is usually collected from temples in India, where women donate their hair as part of a religious ritual. The hair is then sorted and sold to companies that create hair extensions.

Remy hair can sell for hundreds or even thousands of dollars per ounce. That means a single head of hair can be worth quite a lot of money!

Uses Of Human Hair

Human hair is often used in various industries and products. For example, it is commonly used in the wig and hair extension industry. It can also make yarn, fabric, and other textiles. Additionally, human hair is sometimes used in medical research or biofuel production.

While some people may view hair as nothing more than dead cells, it is a very versatile and essential resource.

Wigs: Wigs are commonly made from human hair because it looks and feels the most natural.

Extensions: Hair extensions can be made from human hair or synthetic fibers, but human hair is more expensive.

Braiding: Human hair is often used for braiding, especially if the hair is to be worn for an extended period.

Weaves: Weaves are another hairstyle that commonly uses human hair.

Making Fabric: Human hair can be woven into fabric. This fabric is then used for various purposes, including clothing and upholstery.

Test Tresses Making: Hair that falls out is often used to make test tresses for products like hair dyes, shampoos, and conditioners.

Composting: Hair that falls out can be composted. This is a process where microorganisms break down organic materials in the presence of oxygen.

Help People Grow Food: Hair that falls out can be used to help people grow food. This is because hair contains nitrogen, an essential nutrient for plants. When hair is added to soil, it provides this essential nutrient and helps the plants grow.

Clean-Up Oil Spills: Hair has lipophilic properties, which means it is attracted to oil. This makes it an ideal material for cleaning up oil spills. The hair absorbs the oil and can then be removed from the water, leaving the water clean.

Make Paper: Hair that falls out can be used to make paper. Hair is made of cellulose, which is a primary component of writing. The hair is combined with other materials like wood pulp to create paper.

Create Furniture: Hair that falls out can be used to create furniture. This is because hair is strong and can be used as a material for chairs, tables, and other pieces of furniture.

Insulate Homes: Hair that falls out can be used to insulate homes. This is because hair is a good insulator and can help keep homes warm in the winter and cool in the summer.

Fill Pillows: Hair that falls out can be used to fill pillows. This is because hair is soft and comfortable, and it can help make pillows more comfortable to sleep on.

Making Art Pieces: There are many ways to use broken hair in art. Hair can be used in a variety of ways to create different effects. For example, hair can be braided or woven into different patterns.

Make A Brush: Hair that falls out can be used to make a brush. This is because hair is strong and can be made into various shapes and sizes.

Keep Your Pet Warm: Hair that falls out can be used to keep your pet warm. This is because hair is a good insulator and can help keep your pet warm in the winter.

Medical Purposes Research

Human hair is sometimes used in research, particularly in studies involving DNA.

L-Cysteine: L-cysteine is an amino acid that can be derived from human hair. It is commonly used as a dietary supplement and has many benefits, including promoting healthy skin and hair. It helps in healing wounds.

Additionally, L-cysteine can be used as an ingredient in some pharmaceuticals and cosmetics.

N-Acetyl L-Cysteine (NAC): NAC is another amino acid that can be derived from human hair. It is commonly used as a dietary supplement and has many of the same benefits as L-cysteine. Additionally, NAC is sometimes used as an ingredient in some medications, particularly those used to treat asthma and other respiratory conditions.

There are many uses for hair that falls out. Whether you use it to make a brush or compost it, hair that falls out can be put to good use!

Donating Your Hair

Wigs For Kids: This organization provides hairpieces to children experiencing hair loss due to cancer treatment or other conditions.

Locks Of Love: This organization provides hairpieces to children and adults experiencing hair loss due to cancer treatment or other conditions.

Pantene Beautiful Lengths: This program provides real-hair wigs to cancer patients.

American Cancer Society: The ACS provides wigs and other services to cancer patients through its Look Good Feel Better program.

Wigs For Warriors: This organization provides free wigs to female veterans who have lost their hair due to their service.

FAQ’s

How Much Hair Do I Need To Donate?

The minimum amount of hair that can be donated is 8 to 14 inches.

Can I Donate Colored Hair?

Yes, you can donate colored hair as long as the color is not artificial.

What Are The Benefits Of Hair?

Hair has many benefits, including providing insulation, protection, and sensory information. It also plays a role in social interactions and can be used as a form of self-expression.

Does Hair Decompose If It’s Not Buried?

Hair does not decompose if it’s not buried. It will eventually disintegrate, but this process can take hundreds of years.

Conclusion

As you can see, hair that falls out still has many uses. It can be recycled and used in a variety of different industries. So, don’t worry about your hair falling out. Just enjoy the fact that you’re helping the environment and supporting various sectors at the same time!