Hair shaft

Definition

The hair shaft is the part of the hair that is visible above the skin surface. It is made up of dead, keratinized cells that give hair its strength and color.

Related terms

Hair Follicle:

A structure beneath the skin that houses the root of the hair shaft and is responsible for hair growth.

Keratin:

A type of protein found in hair, nails, and skin that provides strength and resilience.

Sebaceous Glands:

Glands located in the skin that secrete an oily substance called sebum to lubricate the hair and skin