Circle hairs, also sometimes referred to as coiled hairs, are believed to form when a hair is unable to properly emerge from the skin, causing it to curl into a circular shape.
Understanding Circle Hairs
Circle hairs are a unique phenomenon in dermatology, characterized by hairs that curl into a complete or nearly complete circle beneath the skin's surface. While the exact causes are still being explored, there are a few potential mechanisms that are often considered.
Possible Causes of Circle Hairs
The primary theory for circle hair formation is related to the hair's diameter and its ability to pass through the skin:
- Small Hair Diameter: According to the research cited in "Circle hairs. J Am Acad Dermatol. 1983;8:423-5.", one main cause of circle hair is the hair's small diameter. It suggests that these fine hairs may have difficulty penetrating the stratum corneum, the outermost layer of the skin.
- Curling Mechanism: When the hair is unable to break through the skin surface, it doesn't grow straight outward. Instead, it curls back on itself, leading to the circular shape seen in circle hairs.
Other Factors Possibly Involved
While the small diameter of hair is a primary cause suggested in the reference, other factors might also contribute to circle hair formation, though more research is needed to confirm them:
- Skin Texture and Density: Certain types of skin texture or density could make it harder for hair to break through.
- Hair Follicle Shape: Variations in the shape of hair follicles may also play a role in how hair emerges and whether it tends to curl.
Summary of Circle Hair Causes
| Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Small Hair Diameter | The primary factor. Fine hairs are unable to penetrate the skin and curl beneath the surface. |
| Stratum Corneum Barrier | The outer layer of skin poses a barrier to emergence, especially for small diameter hairs. |
Practical Implications
While circle hairs are usually harmless, they might occasionally cause mild irritation, itching or a minor pimple. If this happens, it's best to leave them alone so as not to cause inflammation.
