Hair Follicle Sensitivity

Hair is derivate of the epidermis, the top layer of the skin, and the hair follicle is part of the pilosebaceous system. All of these elements are present at least three months prior to birth. It is extremely rare that new hair follicles will develop in an adult. There is a common misconception that males have more hair follicles than women. This is untrue, there is no difference between the female and male distribution of hair follicles.

The difference between males and females in regard to sexual hair patterns is due mainly to the concentration of circulating androgens. Androgens, simply explained, are a group of hormones that play a role in male traits and reproductive activity. As a result, a female’s tendency to abnormal hairiness remains inactive because the follicles are dormant. However, at any given time due to a variety of intrinsic and extrinsic factors, these hair follicles may become active. For example, intrinsic factors include: inborn androgen sensitivity, a sudden decrease in the testosterone’s protein-binding capacity, or certain females may have a genetic disposition to convert androgen to testosterone. Extrinsic factors that may stimulate hair growth include psychogenic stresses in life, medications, and topical substances applied to the skin.

In relation to intrinsic and extrinsic age plays a big role in hair growth. Women between the ages of 35 and 58 are in the age range for perimenopause and menopause. Perimenopause is the reverse of puberty and it is a slow process of the woman’s reproduction system shutting down. Women in this stage may notice a new acceleration of vellus hair, fine hair, from the reduction of estrogen in their system. During this time, the current androgens may have more influence on the body since estrogen has decreased. Menopause is when the ovaries have stopped releasing eggs. Women in this stage of life begin to wrinkle and may experience some very coarse hair growth.

Is it important to note that puberty, pregnancy, and menopause are the three most common times in a woman’s life for the development of unwanted hair. Men, however, develop genetic hair though their middle age. Most unwanted hair develops very slowly over a period of several years. Hair that grows suddenly, at any age, can indicate a medical problem such as an endocrine disorder or a side effect of medication.

Whether hair growth is normal or abnormal is essential to consider a number of factors: genetics, psychogenetics, hormone production, and a person’s inherent sensitivity in androgen production. When it comes to hair growth, there is usually much more than meets the eye. A superior electrologist will have an understanding of several factors and will be able to make recommendations to help aid in the client’s hair removal goals and expectations. At Limoges Electrolysis in New York City, Emily is well versed in the different elements that contribute to unwanted hair growth and makes educated recommendations to help her clients in achieving their hair removal goals. Book your free consultation today.