The gene seems to be involved in keratinization of the hair cortex. Examination of hair fibers has shown that the cuticle is normal but the internal cortex is not completely keratinized at sporadic points along its length. These incompletely keratinized areas are soft and weak and the hard, fully keratinized portions of the fiber become impacted into the soft portion creating the cup and socket structure. The improperly keratinized areas of the hair fiber can also become twisted making torsion nodes. Bamboo hair often improves spontaneously as the individual grows.
Most treatments involve preventative measures to avoid over processing and physical manipulation.
Several treatments are available to remedy skin problems that develop in ichthyosis and Netherton's syndrome and these may also help improve hair quality. J Invest Dermatol. J Allergy Clin Immunol. Golf tee hairs in Netherton disease. Br J Dermatol.