The arrector pili muscle is a small, involuntary muscle that is attached to the base of each hair follicle. When the muscle contracts, it causes the hair to stand on end, which is what gives us goose bumps.
There are a few things that can cause the arrector pili muscle to contract, including:
- Cold temperatures: When we are cold, our bodies try to conserve heat by contracting the arrector pili muscles. This causes the hair to stand on end, which traps a layer of air next to the skin, which helps to insulate us.
- Emotions: The arrector pili muscles can also be contracted by emotions such as fear, anger, and excitement. This is thought to be a way of making ourselves look larger and more threatening to potential predators.
- Pregnancy: During pregnancy, the arrector pili muscles can become more active, which can cause the skin to appear bumpy. This is a normal and temporary change that usually goes away after the baby is born.
For beauty professionals and estheticians, it is important to be aware of the arrector pili muscle and how it can affect the skin. If a client is experiencing goose bumps, it is important to address the underlying cause. For example, if the client is cold, you can offer them a warm blanket or a cup of hot tea. If the client is experiencing emotional stress, you can offer them a calming massage or a relaxing aromatherapy treatment.
In some cases, it may be necessary to treat the arrector pili muscle directly. For example, if a client has a condition that causes the muscles to be constantly contracted, such as hirsutism, you may recommend electrolysis or laser hair removal.