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Brains On! Science podcast for kids

Brains On! Science podcast for kids

The hows and whys of hair

Oct 6, 2026 · 31m

Coming soon to iPhone. Already have it? “Listen in Starcast” takes you straight there.

On this episode

About this episode

The hair on our heads is on our minds. We have fun with follicles and learn about how they make hair. Our experts help us decipher what makes hair black or brown, blonde or red, and even why it turns gray. From eye lashes to ear and nose hair, this episode has it all. Why do humans have hair and not fur? Why is there hair on the top of our heads? How does hair grow? How does hair become curly or straight? Guests: Dr. Shani Francis, dermatologist and the director of the Hair Center of Excellence Sandy Cook evolutionary biologist of hair at Penn State University Click ⁠⁠here⁠⁠ for a transcript of this episode. Brains On is a completely independent podcast, and we rely on your contributions to…