What is the process called when living cells mature in hair?

The process referred to when living cells mature in hair is known as keratinization. This is a vital biological process where keratinocytes, the cells of the hair, undergo a transformation as they migrate from the hair bulb towards the outer layer of the hair structure. During keratinization, these cells produce keratin, a strong structural protein that forms the main component of hair, nails, and the outer layer of skin. As the cells mature, they gradually lose their nuclei and organelles, becoming hardened and making up the fibrous structure of hair.

This maturation process is crucial as it contributes to the physical properties of hair, such as strength and resilience. It is a key aspect of hair formation that happens after the initial growth phase has begun and continues until the hair is fully formed. Understanding keratinization is important in barbering, as it can affect the way hair responds to styling and treatments.