Cowlick

Cowlick is a section of hair that stands straight up or lies at an angle at odds with the style in which the rest of an individual's hair is worn. Cowlicks appear when the growth direction of the hair forms in (against the spiral pattern that is seen in normal hair) or in a direction that is diagonal to the direction of the rest of the hair.

Causes

Cowlicks occur when the hair's direction of growth is opposite the hair's natural growth pattern. The term "cowlick" originates from the domestic bovine's habit of licking its young, which results in a swirling pattern in the hair. The most common site of a human cowlick is in the crown, but they can show up anywhere. They sometimes appear in the front and back of the head.

Appearance

As the hair continues to grow, the cowlick's distinct spiral pattern becomes more noticeable. Cowlicks are often present at birth, and they can remain a permanent part of a person's hairline. They can affect a person's appearance, depending on where they are located and how the person's hair is styled. Some people have more than one cowlick.

Management

Managing a cowlick can be challenging. Some people choose to grow their hair longer to weigh down the cowlick, while others use hair styling products. In some cases, people may choose to have the cowlick surgically removed.

See also

• Hair
• Hair follicle
• Hair care
• Hair styling

References

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