Hair follicles are small, tube-like structures that are found in the epidermis, extending deeper into the dermis section of the skin. They are responsible for producing hair and are composed of several different parts, including the hair shaft, hair bulb, and hair papilla. The hair shaft is the visible part of the hair that extends from the skin’s surface, while the hair bulb is the rounded base of the hair follicle where hair growth occurs. The hair papilla is a small, cone-shaped structure that sits at the base of the hair bulb and contains blood vessels that provide the nutrients necessary for hair growth.
Sebaceous glands are small, sac-like glands that are found all over the body, but are most concentrated on the face, scalp, chest, and back. They produce sebum, an oily substance that helps to keep the skin and hair healthy. Sebum helps to waterproof the skin, protect it from bacteria and fungi, and keep it from drying out.
Hair follicles and sebaceous glands can be affected by a number of factors, including genetics, hormones, and lifestyle choices. Some common problems that can affect hair follicles and sebaceous glands include:
- Acne: Acne is a common skin condition that is caused by the overproduction of sebum and the buildup of dead skin cells.
- Dandruff: Dandruff is a scalp condition that is characterized by dry, flaky skin.
- Oily skin: Oily skin is a condition in which the sebaceous glands produce too much sebum.
- Hair loss: Hair loss can be caused by a number of factors, including genetics, stress, and medical conditions.
The number, size, and activity of follicles determine whether someone has dry, oily, or normal skin. Skin with more numerous, larger, and active follicles tends to be oilier, while skin with fewer follicles tends to be drier.
Follicles also play a crucial role in the development of acne, which is one of the most prevalent skin conditions. When follicles become clogged, acne can occur. If the follicles contain hair, there is a lower chance of blockage and, subsequently, a lower chance of developing acne.
In addition to acne, follicles are also directly linked to other skin conditions such as ingrown hairs or pseudofolliculitis and folliculitis. These conditions can result from inflammation or infection of the follicles, or when hair penetrates the follicular walls.