hårfolliklarnas

Hårfolliklarna, Swedish for hair follicles, are complex microscopic organs found in the dermis of the skin. They are responsible for the growth and production of hair. Each hair follicle is a small, pouch-like structure from which a single hair strand grows. The follicle itself is comprised of several layers, including the outer root sheath, inner root sheath, and the matrix. At the base of the follicle lies the dermal papilla, a connective tissue that contains blood vessels supplying nutrients essential for hair growth.

The hair growth cycle consists of three main phases: anagen (growth phase), catagen (transitional phase), and telogen (resting phase). The duration of the anagen phase is a primary determinant of hair length. During the anagen phase, cells in the hair matrix divide rapidly, pushing the hair shaft upwards and out of the follicle. In the catagen phase, hair growth stops, and the follicle shrinks. Finally, in the telogen phase, the hair rests before eventually shedding, making way for a new anagen phase to begin. The cyclical nature of hair follicle activity ensures continuous hair renewal throughout a person's life. Variations in follicle structure, the growth cycle, and hormonal influences can affect hair density, thickness, and pattern.