Underarm hair

Staging for Axillary Hair Development

Armpit by David Shankbone

Womans armpit.JPG

Armpit of a Teenager,in developement,Mar 2013

Underarm hair is the hair in the underarm area (axilla). It typically begins to grow during puberty and is considered a secondary sexual characteristic. The presence and amount of underarm hair can vary widely among individuals and can be influenced by genetics, hormones, and ethnicity.

Development

Underarm hair development is part of the broader process of puberty. During puberty, the body undergoes various changes, including the growth of hair in the underarm area. This process is driven by the increase in androgens, which are hormones that play a key role in the development of male traits and reproductive activity. Both males and females experience the growth of underarm hair, although the timing and extent can differ.

Function

Underarm hair serves several potential functions:

• Protection: It may help to reduce friction between the upper arm and the body during movement.
• Pheromone Dispersal: The hair can help to disperse pheromones, which are chemicals that can influence the behavior of others, particularly in the context of sexual attraction.
• Thermoregulation: It may play a role in regulating body temperature by trapping sweat and aiding in its evaporation.

Cultural Perspectives

The presence and grooming of underarm hair have varied cultural significance:

• Western Cultures: In many Western cultures, the removal of underarm hair is common, particularly among women. This practice is often associated with hygiene and aesthetics.
• Other Cultures: In some cultures, underarm hair is less of a concern, and its removal is not as prevalent.

Grooming Practices

Common methods for removing underarm hair include:

• Shaving: Using a razor to cut the hair at the skin's surface.
• Waxing: Applying wax to the hair and then removing it, pulling the hair out from the root.
• Depilatory Creams: Using chemical creams that dissolve the hair.
• Laser Hair Removal: Using laser technology to destroy hair follicles and reduce hair growth.

Health Considerations

While underarm hair itself is not typically associated with health issues, grooming practices can sometimes lead to problems such as:

• Irritation: Shaving or waxing can cause skin irritation or razor burn.
• Infection: Improper grooming techniques can lead to folliculitis, an infection of the hair follicles.
• Ingrown Hairs: Hair that grows back into the skin, causing inflammation and sometimes infection.

See Also

• Puberty
• Secondary sexual characteristics
• Hair removal
• Pheromones
• Folliculitis