A hair cap is a close-fitting cap worn to cover and protect the hair, typically made from disposable materials such as plastic or fabric. In hospitals, hair caps are mandatory as part of surgical attire to prevent hair from falling into the surgical site, potentially causing infection.
Hair caps play a crucial role in maintaining hygiene and safety, reducing the risk of contamination and infection. Historically, the use of hair caps in surgical settings can be traced back to the mid-19th century, when Joseph Lister introduced the concept of antiseptic surgery.