Structure and function:
The dermal papilla is located directly beneath the hair matrix, the region of cells where hair is formed. Blood vessels in the dermal papilla supply nutrients and oxygen to the rapidly dividing cells of the hair matrix, which would be unable to grow without this supply. In addition, the dermal papilla emits important biochemical signals that control the growth, differentiation, and life cycle of hair cells.
Regulation of hair growth:
The activity of the dermal papilla is crucial for the length and health of the anagen phase (growth phase) of the hair. A well-functioning dermal papilla promotes strong, healthy hair growth, while disturbances in its function can lead to hair growth disorders or hair loss.
Role in hair loss and treatment:
Since the dermal papilla plays a key role in controlling the hair matrix, diseases or damage to this structure are often the cause of hair loss, for example in androgenetic alopecia. Many therapies aim to improve blood circulation in the scalp and support the function of the dermal papilla.
Connection between the dermal papilla and laser hair removal
The dermal papilla is crucial for hair growth because it supplies the hair follicle with nutrients and controls cell division in the hair matrix. This function also makes it the target of laser hair removal. Light energy is absorbed by the melanin in the hair and converted into heat, which reaches the dermal papilla in the hair follicle. There, the heat causes targeted damage to the cells and blood vessels, permanently inhibiting hair growth.
