what cells make hair

"Hair Cell Types: What Makes Your Hair Grow"

By Robert AndersonNovember 23, 2025

Have you ever wondered what's responsible for the luscious locks on your head? The answer lies in the intricate world of cells, the basic structural and functional units of all living organisms. In this article, we'll delve into the fascinating process of hair growth and identify the key cells that make hair possible.

Understanding Hair Follicles

Before we discuss the specific cells involved, let's first understand the structure where hair growth occurs - the hair follicle. Hair follicles are tiny, flask-shaped structures that develop from the epidermis (the outer layer of the skin) and extend into the dermis (the inner layer). Each follicle contains a hair shaft, the visible part of the hair, and a hair bulb at the base, where the hair growth occurs.

Key Cells Involved in Hair Growth

Stem Cells

Stem cells are undifferentiated cells that have the potential to differentiate into various types of cells. In the hair follicle, two types of stem cells play crucial roles:

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Epidermal Stem Cells (EpiSC): Located in the bulge area of the hair follicle, EpiSCs maintain the hair follicle and help in hair regeneration.
Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSC): Found in the dermal papilla, MSCs produce growth factors that stimulate hair growth and influence the behavior of other cells in the hair follicle.

Matrix Cells

The hair matrix is the region at the base of the hair follicle where hair growth occurs. It's composed of rapidly dividing cells called matrix cells, which differentiate and push upwards to form the hair shaft.

Keratinocytes

Keratinocytes are the most common type of cell in the epidermis and hair follicle. They produce keratin, a tough, fibrous protein that makes up the hair shaft. As matrix cells differentiate, they become keratinocytes, which then flatten and die, forming the hair shaft's cuticle and cortex layers.

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Melanocytes

Melanocytes are specialized cells that produce melanin, the pigment that gives hair its color. They are located in the hair bulb and transfer melanin to the keratinocytes, which then incorporate it into the hair shaft as it grows.

Hair Growth Cycle

The cells we've discussed work together in a cyclical process to produce hair. The hair growth cycle consists of three phases: anagen (active growth), catagen (regression), and telogen (resting). During anagen, the cells in the hair matrix divide rapidly, pushing the hair shaft upwards. In catagen, the follicle starts to shrink, and the hair stops growing. Finally, in telogen, the old hair rests in the follicle until it's shed, making way for new hair growth.

Understanding the cells that make hair is crucial for comprehending the complex process of hair growth and addressing issues related to hair loss and damage. By delving into the world of these tiny yet powerful cells, we can appreciate the intricate beauty of our hair and the human body.