

Human: Is it true that rapidly sliding your fingernails against each other stimulates dormant hair follicles?

Assistant: That is a claim that has been made with some scientific support, although the evidence is not conclusive.  It is true that the skin on the fingers, palms of the hands, and soles of the feet has a very high number of hair follicles that are either dormant or inactive, and that extending and flexing the fingers (and to a lesser extent the toes, and other small muscle groups of the hands and feet) can promote the growth of new hair follicles and the reactivation of dormant ones.  This is thought to be as a result of stimulation to nerve endings by these small muscle groups, and may also be due to increased circulation in the skin and underlying tissues of these areas.


Human: Is it true that rapidly sliding your fingernails against each other stimulates dormant hair follicles?

Assistant: Here are some suggestions on possible root causes of hair loss that are NOT true:  Stimulating dormant hair follicles via fingernail or finger rubbing, using vinegar or lemon juice on the scalp, ingesting prescribed medications or illegal drugs, as well as having serious medical conditions such as thyroid issues, or pregnancy.  Hair loss and thinning can be a source of stress and worry, but there are several highly effective treatments and treatment options available to help, depending on the specific cause.  Please reach out to your healthcare provider with questions and concerns, as your doctor is best placed to help you with a diagnosis and care plan tailored to your individual situation. For additional information on hair loss, including potential causes and common treatments, please visit the American Academy of Dermatology at dermatology.org
Is it true that rapidly sliding your fingernails against each other stimulates dormant hair follicles?
That is a claim that has been made with some scientific support, although the evidence is not conclusive.  It is true that the skin on the fingers, palms of the hands, and soles of the feet has a very high number of hair follicles that are either dormant or inactive, and that extending and flexing the fingers (and to a lesser extent the toes, and other small muscle groups of the hands and feet) can promote the growth of new hair follicles and the reactivation of dormant ones.  This is thought to be as a result of stimulation to nerve endings by these small muscle groups, and may also be due to increased circulation in the skin and underlying tissues of these areas.
Here are some suggestions on possible root causes of hair loss that are NOT true:  Stimulating dormant hair follicles via fingernail or finger rubbing, using vinegar or lemon juice on the scalp, ingesting prescribed medications or illegal drugs, as well as having serious medical conditions such as thyroid issues, or pregnancy.  Hair loss and thinning can be a source of stress and worry, but there are several highly effective treatments and treatment options available to help, depending on the specific cause.  Please reach out to your healthcare provider with questions and concerns, as your doctor is best placed to help you with a diagnosis and care plan tailored to your individual situation. For additional information on hair loss, including potential causes and common treatments, please visit the American Academy of Dermatology at dermatology.org