Library · Physiology
Hair Follicle Function
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A hair follicle is not a factory that runs nonstop. Its job is to produce and renew hair through a cycle: the hair grows, the follicle regresses, it rests, and the old hair is eventually shed. Picture a structure that partly breaks down and then builds itself back up.
During the growth phase, stem cells become active in an area called the bulge region. These cells help rebuild the lower part of the follicle, allowing a new hair to form.
In brief
The hair follicle's main function is to produce and renew hair through a cycle of growth, regression, rest, and shedding.
During the growth phase, stem cells in the bulge region of the follicle become active and regenerate the lower portion of the follicle, allowing a new hair to form. That regeneration process repeats as the follicle moves through the cycle.
Sources (1)
- National Center for Biotechnology InformationAnatomy, Hair Follicle
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