Which type of hair predominantly replaces vellus hair during puberty in response to increased androgen levels?

Study for the IBEC Electrolysis and Laser Test. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions with hints and explanations. Prepare to succeed on your exam!

During puberty, the body experiences an increase in androgen levels, which plays a crucial role in transforming the fine, light vellus hair into thicker, coarser hair known as terminal hair. This process primarily occurs in areas such as the underarms, pubic region, legs, and face, where terminal hair provides a more mature appearance associated with adult characteristics.

Vellus hair is typically soft and fine, serving as a subtle covering on most parts of the body. When puberty begins, androgens stimulate hair follicles to produce terminal hair instead, which is more robust due to the hormonal changes taking place in the body. This transition signifies the development of secondary sexual characteristics.

The other types of hair mentioned do not accurately reflect the transformation of hair during puberty in response to androgens. Superfluous hair is not a recognized term in this context, lanugo hair is a fine, soft hair that covers a fetus and typically disappears before or shortly after birth, and androgenic hair is more of a descriptor rather than a specific type of hair. Thus, terminal hair is the correct answer as it is specifically influenced by increased androgen levels during this significant life stage.

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