Hair growth is a dynamic and complex process that occurs in cycles, each with distinct phases. Understanding these stages is crucial for anyone interested in hair care, treatment, or simply the science behind how hair grows. The hair growth cycle consists of three main stages: anagen, catagen, and telogen. This article delves into each stage, explaining what happens during these phases and how they contribute to overall hair health.
Anagen Phase (Growth Phase)
The anagen phase is the active growth phase of the hair cycle and is the longest of the three stages. During this phase, cells in the hair follicle rapidly divide, and new hair is formed. This phase determines the length of the hair, as it can last anywhere from two to seven years, depending on genetic factors and overall health.
- Hair Growth: During the anagen phase, hair can grow approximately 1 cm per month. The longer this phase lasts, the longer the hair will grow.
- Follicle Activity: The hair follicles are fully active, producing new cells and pushing the hair shaft out of the scalp. At any given time, about 85-90% of the hair on your head is in the anagen phase.
- Influencing Factors: Hormones, nutrition, and certain medical conditions can influence the duration and efficiency of the anagen phase.
Catagen Phase (Transition Phase)
The catagen phase is a short, transitional phase that marks the end of active hair growth. This stage typically lasts for about two to three weeks and involves significant changes within the hair follicle.
- Follicle Shrinkage: During the catagen phase, the hair follicle shrinks, and the lower part of the follicle is destroyed, cutting off the blood supply and the connection to the hair’s root.
- Formation of Club Hair: As the follicle shrinks, the hair is no longer being nourished, and it becomes a “club hair”—a term for hair that is no longer growing but remains anchored in the follicle.
- Preparation for Rest: The hair follicle prepares for the final stage of the cycle, and only about 1-2% of hair is in the catagen phase at any given time.
Telogen Phase (Resting Phase)
The telogen phase is the final stage of the hair growth cycle, often referred to as the resting or shedding phase. This phase typically lasts around three to four months and involves the natural shedding of hair.
- Resting Hair Follicles: During the telogen phase, the hair follicles are inactive, and the hair strand is fully formed. The club hair eventually detaches from the follicle and falls out.
- Shedding: On average, a person sheds 50 to 100 hairs daily during the telogen phase, which is a normal part of the hair cycle. The hair follicle then re-enters the anagen phase, beginning the cycle anew.
- Factors Affecting Shedding: Stress, hormonal changes, and certain health conditions can cause more hair to enter the telogen phase prematurely, leading to increased hair shedding, a condition known as telogen effluvium.
Understanding Hair Growth and Hair Loss
Understanding the hair growth cycle is essential for addressing hair loss and promoting healthy hair. For instance, treatments aimed at prolonging the anagen phase can help enhance hair growth, while addressing the factors that trigger premature entry into the telogen phase can reduce hair shedding.
- Hair Growth Treatments: Various treatments, such as minoxidil or other topical solutions, aim to stimulate hair follicles and prolong the anagen phase, encouraging thicker, longer hair.
- Preventing Hair Loss: By identifying factors that cause premature telogen phase entry, such as stress or poor nutrition, it’s possible to take preventive measures to maintain a healthy hair growth cycle.
The hair growth cycle is a continuous process that ensures the renewal of hair on your scalp. Each stage—anagen, catagen, and telogen—plays a crucial role in determining the health and length of your hair. Understanding these stages can help you take better care of your hair, address hair loss issues, and make informed decisions about hair care treatments.
Image credits: Image by drobotdean on Freepik,
No Comment! Be the first one.