History of Hair/Fiber Analysis and Hair Diagram

Trichology, or the scientific study of hair, was first introduced in 1857 after a report was published in France outlining the possibility of using such analysis at a crime scene. In the beginning of the 20th century, the study of trichology expanded and microscopic examination of hair became widely renowned. Hair evidence wasn't actually used by forensic examiners until a book titled "Microscopy of Hairs: A Practical Guide and Manual" was published in 1977, laying the foundation for hair examination as a form of police work.

Parts of Hair

Follicle- the part of the hair underneath the surface of the skin. Hair grows from the root, supported by glands and their own blood supply. The follicle controls hair growth.

Shaft- the visible part of the hair above the surface of the skin. Consists of the cuticle, cortex, and medulla.

Cuticle- the outermost layer of the hair that protects the underlying layers.

Cortex- surrounds the medulla and contains keratin and melanin, proteins which give the hair its shape and color

Medulla- the central part of the hair. Contains excess cells and usually appears as a shapeless area.