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Review
. 2020 Apr 24:13:309-318.
doi: 10.2147/CCID.S247390. eCollection 2020.

Asian Hair: A Review of Structures, Properties, and Distinctive Disorders

Affiliations
Review

Asian Hair: A Review of Structures, Properties, and Distinctive Disorders

Kanchana Leerunyakul et al. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. .

Abstract

Asian hair is known for its straightness, dark pigmentation, and large diameter. The cuticle layer in Asians is thicker with more compact cuticle cells than that in Caucasians. Asian hair generally exhibits the strongest mechanical properties, and its cross-sectional area is determined greatly by genetic variations, particularly from the ectodysplasin A receptor gene. However, knowledge on Asian hair remains unclear with limited studies. This article aimed to review and summarize the characteristics and properties of Asian hair. It also aimed to discuss hair disorders including linear lupus panniculitis and pseudocyst of the scalp that occur distinctively in Asian populations.

Keywords: alopecia; biogeographic population; ethnicity; hair loss; hair shaft disorders.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors report no conflicts of interest in this work.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Linear lupus panniculitis of the scalp: non-scarring alopecic patch in a linear configuration.
Figure 2
Figure 2
Pseudocyst of the scalp/alopecic and aseptic nodules of the scalp: soft and dome-shaped alopecic nodules, slightly erythematous and pustules on surface, surrounded by an area of normal skin.

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