Vellus hair

Microscopic structure of vellus hair

Vellus hair, also known as "peach fuzz," refers to the fine, short, and lightly pigmented hairs that cover most of the human body, excluding certain areas like the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet. These hairs are distinct from terminal hairs, which are thicker, longer, and more deeply pigmented.

Structure and Characteristics

Vellus hairs are characterized by the following features:

• Texture: They are fine and soft to the touch, giving them a velvety or downy texture.

• Pigmentation: Vellus hairs are usually lightly pigmented and may appear nearly colorless.

• Distribution: They are distributed across the surface of the body, including areas such as the face, arms, and legs.

Function

While vellus hairs are much finer and less conspicuous than terminal hairs, they still serve several important functions:

• Thermoregulation: Vellus hairs help regulate body temperature by trapping a layer of air near the skin, providing insulation.

• Protection: They offer a degree of protection to the skin against environmental factors like UV radiation and abrasion.

• Sensory Function: Vellus hairs can act as mechanoreceptors, providing sensory information about light touch and movement on the skin's surface.

Hormonal Influence

The presence and distribution of vellus and terminal hairs are influenced by hormonal changes. During puberty, for example, under the influence of androgens like testosterone, some vellus hairs may transition into thicker, darker terminal hairs in certain areas, such as the face and body.

Cosmetics and Removal

Many individuals choose to remove or reduce vellus hair for cosmetic reasons. Common methods include shaving, waxing, and the use of depilatory creams.

Medical Conditions

In some medical conditions, such as hirsutism, there is an excessive growth of terminal hairs in areas where vellus hairs are typically found. This condition may be associated with hormonal imbalances and often requires medical evaluation and treatment.

Vellus hair Resources
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