hair follicles

Hair follicles are tiny, tube-like structures located in the skin where hair grows from. They anchor each hair into the scalp or other skin areas. Inside the follicle, specialized cells produce keratin, the protein that makes up hair. Blood vessels supply nutrients to these cells, supporting hair growth. Hair follicles also contain sebaceous (oil) glands that keep hair moisturized. The cycle of hair growth includes phases of active growth, rest, and shedding. Factors like genetics, hormones, and health influence how many follicles are active and the characteristics of hair produced.