What role do sex hormones play in hair growth?

Sex hormones play a significant role in hair growth, primarily by promoting the growth of hair in certain areas of the body. Testosterone and its derivative, dihydrotestosterone (DHT), are particularly influential in determining hair growth patterns. These hormones can stimulate the hair follicles, leading to increased hair density and thickness in areas such as the scalp, body, and face.

In males, high levels of testosterone contribute to increased facial and body hair, while estrogen, which is prevalent in females, modulates hair growth on the scalp and contributes to the overall hair growth cycle. The balance of these hormones is crucial, as they help drive the distinction between terminal and vellus hair, with terminal hair being coarser and more pigmented, typically associated with areas of higher hormone concentration.

Understanding this relationship is essential in fields like electrology, laser hair removal, and hair restoration, where hormonal influence can impact treatment outcomes. This makes the option stating that sex hormones promote hair growth the most accurate, as it reflects the physiological effects of these hormones on hair follicles.