Baseline Trichoscopic Values for Afro-Textured Hair in Indigenous South Africans Show Lower Density and Unique Features

The study establishes baseline trichoscopic values for natural afro-textured hair in 122 indigenous South Africans, revealing lower hair densities and unique features compared to other racial groups. The average hair density was 139.1 hairs/cm², with significant variations across different scalp areas. The average hair thickness was 62.59 μm, with the frontal scalp showing the greatest hair shaft thickness and follicular unit densities. Gender-based differences were noted, with males having thicker hair and more double and triple follicular units, while females had higher cumulative hair thickness density and more single follicular units. These findings highlight the need for tailored reference values for clinical evaluations and hair transplant planning.