What is the technical term for hair that is soft and found on the body at birth?

The technical term for the soft, fine hair that is present on the body at birth is lanugo. This hair is typically very soft and unpigmented, serving as a protective layer in the womb for the developing fetus. Lanugo usually covers the entire body of the fetus, helping to anchor the vernix caseosa, a substance that protects the skin from the amniotic fluid.

Vellus hair, on the other hand, refers to the fine, short hair that develops on the body after birth, typically in areas like the face and arms, but is not present in abundance at birth. Terminal hair is thicker and darker and develops later in life, particularly during puberty, under the influence of hormones. Androgenic refers to hair growth that is influenced by androgens, which are male hormones that can lead to terminal hair growth in areas such as the face and chest.

Understanding these terms helps clarify the life stages of hair development as well as the physiological roles different types of hair play in human development and appearance.