You have nearly 5 million follicles covering your body like a chimpanzee they re primarily invisible and useless on humans but science suggests humans shed them for an evolutionary purpose

You Have More Hair Than You Think: The Evolutionary Purpose of Invisible Follicles

Have you ever stopped to think about the countless follicles covering your body? You may be surprised to learn that you have nearly 5 million of them, just like a chimpanzee. While they may be primarily invisible and seemingly useless on humans, science suggests that we shed them for a specific evolutionary purpose.

Research has shown that humans possess a high density of hair follicles compared to other mammals. These tiny structures, located all over our bodies, give rise to hair growth and play a crucial role in various physiological functions. Although most of our follicles produce barely visible hair, they serve a greater purpose in our evolutionary history.

Hair has been a significant trait throughout human evolution, providing insulation, protection from the sun’s harmful rays, and even camouflage. However, as humans evolved and migrated to different climates, the need for excessive body hair decreased. Humans began to lose their thick fur as they adapted to use clothing and developed other mechanisms to regulate body temperature.

Today, the follicles that cover our bodies are no longer essential for survival, and many of them are now nearly invisible. But, why do we still possess these seemingly useless follicles? The answer lies in the fascinating world of evolutionary biology.

One theory suggests that our invisible follicles serve as a remnant from our evolutionary ancestors. Our early primate relatives, such as chimpanzees, still have a substantial amount of body hair, and these hidden follicles may be remnants of that heritage. These follicles could be viewed as an evolutionary compromise; although they no longer serve a primary purpose, they have not disappeared entirely.

Another intriguing possibility is that these invisible follicles may have a bactericidal function. Studies have found that hair follicles, even when they do not produce visible hair, may still contain a significant number of microorganisms. These microorganisms, known as commensals, work in harmony with our bodies and play a vital role in various physiological functions. They help regulate our immune system and protect us from harmful pathogens. Therefore, these invisible follicles may still play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of our skin microbiome.

Understanding the evolutionary purpose of our invisible follicles allows us to appreciate the complexity of human biology. While hair loss may be a concern for many, it is essential to recognize that these follicles continue to serve a function beyond their initial purpose.

In conclusion, our nearly 5 million invisible follicles, inherited from our primate ancestors, may not serve a primary purpose in modern humans. However, the evidence suggests that they play a role in our evolutionary history and in maintaining the delicate balance of our skin microbiome. So, next time you feel frustrated about shedding hair, remember that your invisible follicles are a testament to our fascinating evolutionary journey.

Source: New Scientist