Estrogens and the hair follicle.

While it is undisputed that estrogens (1 beta-estradiol, E2) are mainly involved in skin physiology and operate as potent hair growth modulators, our knowledge about the estrogen target cells in skin and exact signaling pathways is still very limited. The current review provides an overview of estrogen effects on hair follicle cycling, cutaneous expression of estrogen receptors, and potential functions of estrogens in hair biology. We discuss potential target genes of estrogen receptor-mediated signaling in the skin, explore the interplay of estrogens with other hormones, growth factors and enzymes, and define major open questions in this intriguing and far too long neglected area of hair research.