While some of us define ourselves by our faces and bodies, others place a lot of weight on how our hair looks. After all, hair (on your scalp, face and body”> is our body’s fashion statement. You’re born with a natural hair color, shape and hairstyle.
Then, we get old enough to realize we have the power to control how good (or bad”> our hair looks. We decide how long or short it is, or how black or blonde (or blue”> it is. You can show people how sexy (or potentially wacky”> you are with a few simple snips. People become inspirations (thank you, Ms. Aniston”>, or the proud butt of jokes (Mr. Trump”>.
Why We Need Hair
Hair used to be a whole lot more purposeful than body ornamentation. Sure, it protects us from the sun. Our eyelashes act as defense against bugs, dust and other foreign particles. But back in the day, the hair covering our nether regions camouflaged our reproductive parts from threats. By lining our armpits and groins, our dry hair also lubricates our arms and legs helping us move about without chafing.
For early humans, hair kept them warm, provided camouflage, protected them from cuts and even served as a nice handhold for the young. We lost a lot of hair because of the invention of heaters and parkas. Our ancestors most likely started hunting in hot, tropical areas.
Bare skin adds to our internal cooling system’s efficiency. So why’d we keep the tuft at the top? It may have to do with a little mating ritual. Males with the most impressive hair frightened away rivals, got the girl and fathered some kiddies. Hence, head hair may have played a big role in obtaining a partner and producing the next generation.
Different Kinds of Hair
Hair on your face grows as you age. The hair on and in your ears protects you from insects that might find your ear canal interesting. You recruit dormant follicles so you can grow more hair to keep warm in the winter.
As far as your nose hairs, beware of pulling them out. This can lead to infections from traumatized hair follicles. Infections in the area from the bridge of the nose to the corner of the mouth can drain into the brain and cause a clot in the cavernous sinus. You can use a specialized nose-hair clipper that acts as a weed whacker for your nostrils.
Read More: Want to Try Laser Hair Removal?
