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Where Did Curly Hair Come From? Biological Anthropology May Provide Insights
Feb 21, 2025
Tina Lasisi, a biological anthropologist at the University of Michigan, dives into the fascinating world of human hair evolution. She unpacks why humans have varying hair types, particularly focusing on the mystery behind curls. The discussion touches on hair's role in heat regulation and how environmental factors shape its characteristics. Lasisi also explores the impact of puberty on hair texture and interesting findings about "chemo curls," revealing much about how our hair reflects our biological stories.
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Quick takeaways
- Natural selection's influence on hair and skin illustrates how humans adapted to varying environmental factors and UV exposure.
- Ongoing research into hair curl patterns reveals potential genetic markers and their implications for understanding human biology and health.
Deep dives
The Origins of Hair and Skin Variation
Natural selection and environmental adaptation play crucial roles in the variation of hair and skin among humans. Early ancestors likely lost body hair to regulate temperature but simultaneously became more vulnerable to UV radiation, prompting the evolution of darker skin in sunny regions due to increased melanin production. However, in areas with less sunlight, lighter skin evolved to facilitate vitamin D production, illustrating a complex relationship between skin pigmentation and environmental factors. This dynamic continues today as cultural adaptations, such as sunscreen and dietary adjustments, allow humans to navigate diverse climates without waiting for evolutionary changes.
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