Haarreste

Haarreste, literally meaning “hair remnants” in German, is a term used to describe small fragments of hair that remain on a surface or in a sample after shedding, grooming, clipping, or processing. The concept appears in several fields, notably forensic science, dermatology, and textile analysis.

In forensics, Haarreste are considered trace evidence that can help establish contact between people and objects or locations. Samples are collected using tape lifts or swabs and examined under light microscopy to assess hair characteristics such as color, thickness, cuticle scale pattern, and medulla. When DNA is preserved, genetic analysis may be performed to support individual identification or exclusion.

In dermatology and trichology, analysis of hair remnants can reveal patterns of hair breakage, chemical exposure, or disease-related damage. In textile and consumer-product contexts, hair residues can indicate wear, contamination, or cleaning efficacy.

Collection and analysis: Standard procedures include careful collection to prevent contamination, preparation of samples for microscopy, and, if feasible, molecular testing. Modern methods may combine microscopic evaluation with DNA or proteomic assays.

Limitations: Hair remnants are often small and degraded, which can limit interpretability. Mixed sources, contamination, and environmental factors can complicate conclusions.

See also: Forensic hair analysis, hair shaft, keratin, trace evidence.