DR. Emrah CINIK
Medical Doctor
Table of Contents
A hair follicle is a small, tube-like structure embedded in the scalp that produces and grows individual strands of hair. It consists of several key components, including the bulb (where hair growth begins), the sebaceous gland (which produces natural oils to keep hair hydrated), and the dermal papilla (which supplies nutrients to the follicle).
Hair follicles cycle through three phases: anagen (growth), catagen (transition), and telogen (resting). The health of the follicle determines hair thickness, strength, and longevity. Factors such as genetics, hormones, and environmental influences can impact follicle function. In conditions like androgenetic alopecia, follicles shrink over time, leading to hair thinning and loss. Preserving follicle health is key to maintaining natural hair growth.