Apocrine glands are primarily found in which areas of the body?

Apocrine glands are sweat glands that become active during puberty and are primarily located in specific areas of the body that are rich in hair follicles. These glands are concentrated in the groin and underarms, where their secretion, which is thicker and richer in organic compounds compared to eccrine sweat, is influenced by hormonal changes and can lead to body odor.

This localization serves a biological function tied to social and sexual signaling rather than thermoregulation, which is primarily the role of eccrine sweat glands found in other areas of the body such as the face and neck or palms and soles. Hence, the prominence of apocrine glands in the groin and underarms is significant for both physiological and social reasons.

Understanding the specific functions and locations of different types of sweat glands can aid in the broader context of dermatological health, hygiene practices, and aesthetic procedures.