What Causes a Back Part in Your Hair?
A distinct back part in your hair, also known as a cowlick, can have various causes. This occurs when the hair at the back of the scalp grows in different directions, creating a section that appears to stand upright or swirl. Though harmless, a stubborn back part can be annoying to deal with when styling your hair.
Genetics and Hair Growth Patterns
Genetics often play a primary role in determining hair growth patterns. The directions and angles at which hair follicles are positioned on the scalp are inherited traits. A back part is simply a section where the hair follicles are arranged in a way that pushes the hair upward and backward instead of down and flat.
This type of follicle arrangement may run in families. So if your parent or sibling also battles a stubborn back part, you likely inherited the genetic predisposition for this growth pattern.
Cowlicks
A common cause of a back part specifically is a cowlick. Cowlicks occur when a section of hair grows in a swirling pattern, forming a center point where the hair stands upright before swirling outward in other directions.
Cowlicks result from hair follicles that are arranged in circular patterns. They are also influenced by genetics and can be passed down among family members. The occurrence of a cowlick becomes evident as hair starts to grow in during childhood.
Underlying Health Conditions
While a back part is typically harmless, sometimes certain scalp or hair conditions can alter growth patterns. One example is alopecia areata - an autoimmune disease that causes patchy hair loss. Regrowth of hair after an alopecia areata flare up may emerge with altered directions.
Other examples include skin conditions that cause inflammation or scarring on the scalp. This can damage hair follicles and impact how replacement hairs grow in afterward. Fungal infections, eczema, psoriasis, and injuries may facilitate changes in hair direction.
Hormonal Shifts
Hormones also regulate hair growth cycles. When hormone levels fluctuate abruptly, such as after pregnancy or starting/stopping birth control pills, it can interrupt healthy follicle functioning.
Postpartum hair loss is common after giving birth due to plummeting estrogen. The subsequent hair regrowth may appear with slightly varied patterns if the follicle cycling was disrupted.
Hairstyle Habits
Certain hairstyling habits can actually train your hair to stay parted in undesirable ways. Frequently brushing, combing, or raking your hair straight back can encourage the hair to assume that direction of growth.
Wearing tight hairstyles that pull severely on the hairline area can also damage follicles or loosen them from the scalp over time. Regrowth may emerge going the opposite way.
Can a Back Part be Fixed?
While bothersome, a stubborn back part or cowlick can often be tamed with strategic styling methods. Using the right hair products and tools to train the hair and disguise the part may help you achieve your desired look.
Styling Tips and Tricks
Here are some styling techniques to try for concealing a pesky back part:
- Blow dry upside down to sweep hair forward instead of back
- Use a round brush while blow drying to better control direction
- Apply mousse to the problem area when hair is damp to add extra hold
- Set the part lower than the back part to cover it
- Use small bobby pins or hair clips to temporarily flatten the area after styling
- Add texturizing spray for extra grip against unruly hair
- Opt for loose, messy hairstyles that disguise awkward growth patterns
- Go shorter - very long hair shows growth directions more clearly
While frustrating, learning to work with and around a stubborn back part or cowlick is doable. With some creativity and the right products, you can achieve a fantastic hairstyle.
FAQs
What is a cowlick?
A cowlick is a section of hair that grows in a swirling, circular pattern, forming an upright tuft that resembles the hair swirl seen on cows. This creates a distinct part in the hair.
At what age does a cowlick first appear?
Cowlicks become visible as hair starts to grow in infancy and early childhood. They form based on the underlying pattern of hair follicles positioned on the scalp.
Can I permanently get rid of a cowlick?
Because cowlicks are determined by genetics, altering the actual hair growth pattern is very difficult, if not impossible. However, strategic styling techniques can help train the hair to lie flatter and conceal cowlicks.
Does cutting hair very short help with stubborn cowlicks?
Sometimes cutting your hair into a very short pixie style can help tame unruly cowlicks. With less length and weight, the hair has less tendency to stick straight up. However, the underlying growth pattern remains unchanged.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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