Tulip hair is a hair abnormality characterized by a light-colored hair shaft with a darker tip, resembling a tulip flower.
What Causes Tulip Hair?
- Oblique Fracture: This characteristic appearance is due to an oblique fracture (an angled break) at the distal end of the hair shaft. This fracture causes a change in the light reflection, making the tip appear darker.
Why is it Called Tulip Hair?
- Visual Resemblance: The lighter shaft and dark tip combined give the hair a visual resemblance to a tulip flower, hence the name.
What Conditions Are Associated with Tulip Hair?
While not specific to any single condition, tulip hair has been observed in individuals with the following:
- Alopecia Areata: An autoimmune condition that causes hair loss.
- Trichotillomania: A hair-pulling disorder.
Table Summarizing Tulip Hair
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Light-colored hair shaft with a dark tip |
| Cause | Oblique fracture of the distal end of the hair shaft |
| Resemblance | Looks like a tulip flower |
| Associated with | Alopecia Areata, Trichotillomania, and other conditions causing hair shaft damage |
Key Takeaways
- Tulip hair is a nonspecific finding, meaning it's not unique to any single condition.
- It is a visual descriptor based on the appearance of the hair shaft.
- Identifying tulip hair may assist in the diagnosis of underlying hair conditions but is not the only diagnostic factor.
