Human keratin, especially that found in hair, is primarily composed of proteins, lipids, melanin, and other minor compounds. Specifically, hair keratin, which is a "hard" keratin, consists of 65-96% proteins, 1-9% lipids, and approximately 3% melanin, along with trace amounts of other substances.
Composition Breakdown:
- Proteins (65-96%): These are the main building blocks of keratin. The proteins are rich in sulfur-containing amino acids, such as cysteine, which form strong disulfide bonds. These bonds contribute significantly to the strength and rigidity of keratin structures.
- Lipids (1-9%): Lipids contribute to the hair's moisture content, flexibility, and shine. Different types of lipids are present, influencing the overall health and appearance of hair.
- Melanin (3%): Melanin is the pigment responsible for hair color. The amount and type of melanin (eumelanin for brown/black and pheomelanin for red/yellow) determine the specific hair color.
- Other Minor Compounds: These include trace elements and other compounds that can influence hair properties.
The specific composition can vary based on factors like genetics, diet, and environmental exposures.
