Why are hairs that fall out (eyelashes especially) white at the root?

93 views

Why are hairs that fall out (eyelashes especially) white at the root?

In: 6

3 Answers

Anonymous 0 Comments

Hairs that fall out, including eyelashes, are often white at the root because the pigment cells that give the hair its color have died or been shed. The hair shaft, which is the visible part of the hair, is made up of dead keratin cells that are no longer alive and do not contain any pigment. The root of the hair, on the other hand, is where the hair grows and is nourished by blood vessels and other cells.

In healthy hair, the root of the hair contains pigment cells called melanocytes, which produce melanin, the pigment that gives hair its color. As the hair grows and the pigment cells die, they are pushed up the hair shaft, and the hair gradually loses its color. This is why the root of the hair is typically darker than the rest of the hair shaft.

However, when hair falls out, the root of the hair is no longer nourished by blood vessels and the pigment cells are shed or die. This can cause the root of the hair to appear white, especially in hairs that are naturally dark. If you notice that your eyelashes or other hairs are white at the root, it is usually not cause for concern and is simply a result of the natural hair growth and shedding process.

You are viewing 1 out of 3 answers, click here to view all answers.