Hair Follicles

Hair follicles are the small structures in the skin that produce and grow hair. They are located in the dermis, the skin layer between the epidermis (top layer of skin) and the subcutaneous (inner layer). Each follicle consists of an arrector pili muscle, which is a small band of muscles that contracts when stimulated by nerve impulses, causing the hair to stand up and creating "goosebumps". Hair follicles are important for the health of the skin and scalp, as they provide lubrication and protection against environmental elements like heat, cold, and bacteria. They also play an important role in hair growth and hair loss. Hair follicles can be stimulated by chemical treatments, such as minoxidil, to encourage new hair growth, and can be surgically removed in hair transplantation procedures to re-grow thinning hair.