What is the Difference Between Hair and Fur?

The primary difference between hair and fur is the word usage, with hair referring to the growth on humans and fur referring to the growth on non-human mammals. Both hair and fur are chemically indistinguishable, made of keratin, and serve similar functions such as insulation and protection. However, there are some differences in their growth patterns and texture:

• Growth Pattern: Fur tends to grow in a more synchronized manner and stops at a certain length, while hair tends to grow independently and does not stop growing.
• Texture: Fur is often densely packed and smooth but can also be coarse and hard, while hair can vary in texture, being soft, straight, smooth, frizzy, or wavy.
• Uses/Purpose: Fur is mainly used for insulation, especially when an animal has a double coat. Hair, on the other hand, can be used for fashion and has very little insulation purpose.
• Growth: Fur usually grows to a certain length and then stops, requiring shedding. Hair, on the other hand, continues to grow throughout an individual's lifetime and may need to be trimmed.

In summary, the main distinction between hair and fur is the organism it grows on and the way it is referred to, with little difference in their chemical composition or function.

Comparative Table: Hair vs Fur

Hair and fur are both made of keratin, a protein, and they have the same chemical composition. The primary difference between hair and fur lies in the term usage and the growth patterns of these keratin-based fibers. Here is a table outlining the differences between hair and fur:

In summary, hair is typically associated with humans and grows independently without stopping, while fur is associated with non-human mammals and grows in a more synchronized manner, stopping at a certain length.