After 6 weeks of having your arm or leg in a cast, you can appreciate why the skin will be dry and flaking - it hasn't had access to water or moisturiser for a while. Your limb looks scrawny because the muscles have not had to work for so long. There may even be a slightly unpleasant smell but you get it. But why has your skin decided to grow more hair under the cast? It can be a bit of an unexpected surprise, but it's actually quite a normal phenomenon!
In this article, we'll explore why your arm is likely to be fuzzier than before the cast was put on. So read on to learn more about the mysterious post-cast hair growth!
What Causes Post-Cast Hair Growth?
Acquired localised hypertrichosis - this is the technical term - is localised excessive growth of hair that is not influenced by your circulating hormones. One reason why this can happen is due to an increase in blood flow in the area because of the fracture beneath.
Another reason why you may develop a hirsute appendage is the direct pressure of the cast against the skin. When a cast is applied to the arm, it causes a disruption in the normal hair growth cycle. This interruption halts the hair from growing and falling out naturally, leading to an accumulation of follicles on the skin. When the cast is removed, these hairs are released and can appear thicker or darker than before.
In addition, the skin beneath the cast can become thicker and more resilient due to increased collagen production. This makes it harder for the hair follicles to break through the skin, leading to a patchier appearance when they eventually do come through.
Is Post-Cast Hair Growth Permanent?
The good news is that post-cast hair growth is not permanent. As the skin beneath the cast returns to its normal state and the natural hair growth cycle resumes, you should start to notice fewer hairs in the area. It may take a few weeks or even months for your arm to return to its pre-cast state, but eventually, all the extra hairs will fall out.
In the meantime, it can help to gently exfoliate the area and use a mild moisturizer to keep the skin hydrated. This can help speed up the process of hair shedding and minimize any irritation caused by trapped hairs beneath the surface.
Any Benefit to Having Hair Growth Under a Cast?
Despite being an unexpected surprise, post-cast hair growth can actually have some benefits. For example, thicker and darker hairs can provide more cushioning and protection for the skin beneath the cast. This can help prevent any further damage or irritation to the area while it is healing.
In addition, increased hair growth in the area can give you an extra layer of insulation against the cold, helping to keep you warm as your arm recovers under the cast.
Summary
So there you have it – now you know why your arm is likely to be hairy after the cast is removed! As mentioned above, post-cast hair growth is not permanent and should start to fall out within a few weeks or months. In the meantime, gently exfoliating the area and using a mild moisturizer can help speed up the process.
