ABSTRACT
The exact function of hair in humans is uncertain. For animals, it provides warmth and protection. In humans it seems to have lost any functional purpose. However, it has retained many mystical qualities. Over the centuries, hair has been associated with the connotations of youth, health, and strength. There is no better example than Samson to demonstrate the sudden effect that loss of hair can have on one’s physical well being. In fact, the ancient Everest papyrus (1500 BC) details an Egyptian prescription for hair loss consisting of honey, red lead, powdered alabaster, and garlic (1). For most men and women, loss of hair is associated with significant psychological distress.
