Using a razor on curly hair can weaken which part of the hair?

Using a razor on curly hair can weaken the cuticle, which is the outer layer of the hair shaft. The cuticle is composed of overlapping scales that protect the inner structures of the hair. When a razor is employed, it can create irregular edges along the cuticle, leading to increased porosity and making the hair more susceptible to damage from environmental factors and styling practices.

Curly hair, in particular, has a unique structure that makes it more prone to frizz and breakage. By using a razor, the integrity of the cuticle can be compromised, resulting in split ends and an overall loss of strength and manageability. Proper techniques, such as blunt cutting, are often recommended for curly hair to maintain the health of the cuticle and preserve the hair's natural curl pattern.

The other parts of the hair, like the inner structure and medulla, are not directly affected in the same manner. The medulla is often absent in finer hair types and does not play a significant role in the overall strength related to cutting methods. Therefore, understanding the impact of various cutting techniques on the cuticle is crucial for preserving the health and appearance of curly hair.