Leg hair

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Leg hair is the hair that grows on the legs of humans, generally becoming more noticeable from puberty onwards. The texture and growth pattern of leg hair can vary from person to person.

Etymology[edit | edit source]

The term "leg hair" is derived from the Old English words "lēg" (leg) and "hǣr" (hair).

Characteristics[edit | edit source]

Leg hair can be categorized into two types: vellus hair and terminal hair. Vellus hair is soft, fine, and short, while terminal hair is longer, thicker, and darker. The type of hair that grows on a person's legs can be influenced by a variety of factors, including genetics, hormones, and age.

Function[edit | edit source]

The primary function of leg hair is to provide warmth and protection. It can also play a role in sensory perception, as the hair follicles are connected to nerve endings that can detect changes in the environment.

Cultural and aesthetic aspects[edit | edit source]

In many cultures, it is common for women to remove their leg hair for aesthetic reasons, while in others, both men and women may choose to remove or trim their leg hair. The methods used for hair removal can vary, but commonly include shaving, waxing, and laser hair removal.

See also[edit | edit source]

Leg hair Resources
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD