päänahkaan

The Finnish word "päänahkaan" translates to "on the scalp" in English. It refers to the skin covering the top of the head. The scalp is a complex structure composed of several layers, including the skin itself, subcutaneous tissue, the galea aponeurotica, loose areolar tissue, and finally the periosteum, which is the membrane covering the bone of the skull.

The scalp is densely populated with hair follicles, which are responsible for hair growth. It also contains numerous sebaceous glands that produce oil, contributing to the health and lubrication of both the hair and skin. Blood supply to the scalp is rich, provided by several arteries branching from the external carotid artery. This rich vascularization aids in wound healing and heat regulation.

Conditions affecting the scalp are common and can range from minor irritations to more serious dermatological issues. These include dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, and various forms of alopecia, or hair loss. Inflammation of the scalp is known as folliculitis when it affects the hair follicles, or general scalp irritation. Proper hygiene and care are important for maintaining a healthy scalp.