ABSTRACT
As early as can be traced in the history of human civilization, mankind has shown interest to please by means of the natural ornament hair, given that its appearance is a feature of the body over which, unlike other hairy land mammals, we exert direct control. Hair length, color, and style play an important role in people’s physical appearance and self-perception. We modify them according to how we wish to appear. The condition and style of hair play a role in how we discern the people we encounter, and how we are perceived by those we come upon. Our ancient preoccupation with hair is further heightened as our increasing life-expectancy fuels our desire to preserve youthfulness. In today’s world, physical appearance and the notion of looking young and energetic play a greater role than ever. Hair is not only intended to invoke male recognition of feminine appeal and desirability, but it has even become a predicate upon which social success and career opportunities are based. This attention reflects a hair care market that is a multibilliondollar enterprise worldwide. The discovery of pharmacological targets and the development of safe and effective drugs for the treatment of alopecia indicate strategies of the drug industry for maintenance of healthy and beautiful hair in the young and old.1
