follicletype

Follicletype is a term used in dermatology to describe the type of hair follicles present on the skin. Hair follicles are the structures responsible for hair growth, and they can vary in size, shape, and distribution across different regions of the body. The follicletype can influence the texture, thickness, and growth pattern of hair.

There are several types of follicles, each with distinct characteristics:

1. Vellus follicles: These are the smallest and most numerous hair follicles, typically found on the skin of infants and in areas such as the face, arms, and legs. Vellus hair is fine, soft, and light-colored.

2. Terminal follicles: These are the largest and most prominent hair follicles, found in areas such as the scalp, eyebrows, and eyelashes. Terminal hair is thicker, coarser, and darker than vellus hair.

3. Peach fuzz follicles: These are intermediate in size between vellus and terminal follicles, found in areas such as the chest, back, and underarms. Peach fuzz hair is finer than terminal hair but coarser than vellus hair.

The follicletype can be influenced by various factors, including genetics, hormones, and environmental factors. Changes in follicletype can occur due to aging, hormonal fluctuations, or certain medical conditions. Understanding the follicletype can be helpful in diagnosing and treating hair-related issues, such as hair loss or abnormal hair growth.