Angle and Direction

Angle and Direction describes how individual hairs are oriented as they exit the skin and the path they take across the scalp surface. Angle typically refers to the tilt of the hair shaft relative to the scalp (for example, flat, oblique, or upright), while direction describes the vector or pattern of growth (such as forward, backward, left, right, or a whorl). Together these factors determine how hair lays, how light reflects off it, and the visible patterns like a parting or cowlick.

Clinically and cosmetically, preserving or recreating natural angle and direction is important for producing a natural-looking result in hair restoration and for effective cutting and styling. Angle and direction can be influenced by scarring, prior surgery, hair shaft characteristics, and progression of hair loss, so careful assessment—often using magnification or photographic documentation—is used to guide graft placement, cutting technique, and patient expectations about post-treatment appearance.