Hair follicle

Definition

A hair follicle is a dynamic organ found in the dermal layer of the skin, responsible for producing individual hairs by packing together keratinized cells. It comprises several layers, including a root sheath and a bulb at its base where hair growth begins.

Related terms

Keratin: A tough, fibrous protein that forms the primary structural component of hair, nails, and the outer layer of skin.

Sebaceous Gland: An exocrine gland in the skin that opens into a hair follicle to secrete sebum, an oily substance that helps keep the skin and hair moisturized.

Dermis: The thick layer of living tissue below the epidermis that contains blood capillaries, nerve endings, sweat glands, hair follicles, and other structures