Body hair

Body hair is the hair that grows on the human body in both men and women. It is a characteristic of all mammals, including humans. Body hair, or androgenic hair, is the terminal hair that develops on the human body during and after puberty. It is different from the head hair and less visible vellus hair.

Function

Body hair has several functions. It helps to reduce friction and also aids in the evaporation of perspiration. Body hair also has a sensory function, extending the sense of touch beyond the surface of the skin. Hair follicles have nerve receptors which allow us to feel the slightest touch on the hair.

Distribution

The distribution of body hair in humans is influenced by genetics, gender, and age. The density of hair follicles on the body remains constant, however, the production of hair can vary. In general, men tend to have more body hair than women.

Types of Body Hair

There are two types of body hair: vellus hair and terminal hair. Vellus hair is soft, fine, and short. It is most commonly found on children and adult women. Terminal hair is coarser, darker, and longer than vellus hair and is usually found in the armpits, the genital area, and on the face in males after puberty.

Cultural Attitudes

Cultural attitudes towards body hair vary greatly. In many western cultures, women are expected to remove body hair that is not on the head, while men are allowed to have a more natural amount of body hair. In other cultures, body hair in women is not considered an issue.

Hair Removal

There are many methods of hair removal including shaving, waxing, and laser hair removal. These methods can be used for aesthetic, cultural, or personal reasons. Some people may also remove body hair for athletic reasons, as it can provide a slight advantage in competitive sports.

See Also

• Hair
• Hair follicle
• Hair removal
• Puberty