Random Tolkien Race Headcanons
have eyebrow whiskers like cats
improved night vision from tapetum lucidum (the eye mirror thing that makes dog/cat pupils look red when photographed with the flash on)
nictitating membranes (third eyelids) to protect from dust and rocks
dense eyelashes also to protect from dust and rocks
increased heat resistance & naturally higher body temp
very strong immune systems, a dwarf getting sick is considered a bit of a bad omen
beads, piercings, and braids have meanings depending on shape, size, number of locks (for braids), etc.
parents often braid a lock of their children's hair into their own (though not exclusive to parents, lovers also practice this with each others hair)
disabled dwarves are highly cared for, accommodated, and respected, especially those disabled from battle
use beard/hair oils, some scented with pine/other trees or spices like cinnamon or clove
have tufted tails like jerboas
improved senses of smell and hearing
ears are actually round but have fur tufts that make them pointed
have subtle animal-like markings on their skin (some too subtle to see)
have whiskers roughly in the sideburns area of the face
great circulation, hands/feet almost never cold
use flora infused fragrances, especially citrus, berries, herbs and tree scents
can regrow limbs over long periods of time (a significant amount of time even for an elf)
slow metabolisms & naturally low body temp
hair and nails grow very slowly, long hair/nails is considered impressive and attractive
the irises of their eyes are subtly smaller than the other races', making them look a bit uncanny
their skin is a bit sensitive, so self care is important and valued
their skin is also naturally paler, but not pale as in white/light toned, but pale as in desaturated, pallid, a little goth/vampire/undead-like
honestly. I think it’d be really cool if they had literal blue blood (which could also explain where the term ‘blue-blood’ as in ‘noble/high ranking’ comes from)
refuse to admit it but use floral perfumes (they say they just smell like that naturally)