Haarvorming

Haarvorming refers to the process by which hair grows and takes its characteristic shape. This biological phenomenon begins at the dermal papilla, a small cone-shaped projection of connective tissue at the base of the hair follicle. Cells in the hair matrix surrounding the dermal papilla are responsible for producing keratin, the structural protein that makes up hair. These cells divide rapidly, pushing older cells upwards. As these cells move away from the blood supply of the dermal papilla, they keratinize and die, forming the visible hair shaft.

The shape of the hair follicle, specifically its cross-sectional shape, dictates the type of hair produced. Round follicles tend to produce straight hair, while oval or flatter follicles result in wavy or curly hair, respectively. The angle at which the hair follicle emerges from the scalp also influences the hair's direction and growth pattern. Hair growth occurs in cycles, consisting of three main phases: anagen (growth phase), catagen (transition phase), and telogen (resting phase). The duration of the anagen phase is a significant factor in determining the maximum length of hair. Genetics, hormones, and environmental factors can all influence the rate and quality of hair formation.