Hair and Scalp Properties

Vocabulary flashcards covering the fundamentals of trichology, hair root anatomy, and hair and scalp properties.

Trichology

The study and care of hair, derived from the Greek words trichos (meaning hair) and ology (meaning study of).

Integumentary system

The biological system composed of the hair, skin, nails, and glands.

Hair shaft

The portion of a human hair strand that projects above the epidermis.

Hair root

The living portion of hair located below the surface of the epidermis.

Hair follicle

A tube-like depression or pocket in the skin or scalp that anchors the hair strand.

Hair bulb

The lowest part of a hair strand, consisting of a club-shaped structure containing cells that will form the hair.

Dermal papilla

A small, cone-shaped elevation located at the base of the hair follicle.

Arrector pili muscle

A small, involuntary muscle located in the base of the hair follicle.

Sebaceous glands

Glands connected to the hair follicles that secrete an oily substance called sebum.