Hair is a complex structure that serves a multitude of functions for mammals. It protects the skin, traps dust and particles around the eyes, and expresses our personality. It can regenerate without scarring or fading, and is found on virtually every surface of the human body. Hair can also be very damaged, but it is still possible for it to regenerate and continue to function.
Some of the most common types of hair are straight, wavy, and curly. Each type has pros and cons, so it’s important to know what your hair type is before you start styling. If you’re unsure about your hair type, you can use the Andre Walker Hair Typing System to identify which type of hair you have.
Another condition that causes hair loss is tinea capitis, or scalp ringworm. This fungal infection causes hair loss in patches, which often results in bald spots. These patches will look red and scaly and may contain pus. If you’re not sure whether you have this condition, see a dermatologist. He or she can rule out other causes of your hair loss.
Hair type is also determined by the shape of your hair follicles. A circular follicle produces straight hair while an oval follicle will produce curlier hair. Your hair color comes from the melanin pigment that’s stored in the hair follicles. You can either have a high concentration of melanin or a low concentration of melanin, and both will result in different hair color.
Regardless of the type of hair, the main purpose of hair care is to maintain the health of your hair. The first step to maintaining healthy hair is to wash it regularly. A gentle shampoo with warm water and a conditioner can help keep your hair looking smooth. Using too much conditioner can cause your hair to become oily or flat.
Hair follicles are attached to tiny muscles called arrector pili, which provide blood supply to the follicle. They contain many nerves that sense hair movement and are sensitive to even the smallest draft. In addition, hair follicles are the source of new hair. This tissue also contains stem cells and papilla, which are what makes your hair stand on end when you get goosebumps.
The hair color that a person has is correlated with the color of their skin. People with light skin have blonde hair, and those with darker skin have dark brown or black hair. It’s also possible to inherit hair color from your parents. The type of hair you have will be determined by the type of follicles in your scalp.
Human HF develops in four distinct stages during embryonic life. The development of HF is regulated by interactions between the epidermal placode and the underlying dermal cells. The interaction of these cells triggers a series of signaling pathways that regulate the development of the hair shaft. Several factors such as the tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and b-catenin play fundamental roles in the formation of the hair follicle.