Hair grows in a four-phase cycle: Anagen, Catagen, Telogen, and Exogen
Depending on which phase your hair is in can determine how much growth you see and how much length you retain. Anagen (Growth) Phase
The beginning of the hair growth cycle is the Anagen (Growth) phase, which consists of 80-90% of the hair growth [1]. The cells in the bulb rapidly divide while new growth emerges from the scalp. The Anagen phase can last from two years to seven. Hair length largely depends on the time cells spend in the Anagen phase. Other factors that impact hair length include nutrition, age, genetics, and lifestyle stressors [2].
Catagen (Transition) Phase
Following the Anagen phase, the Catagen or transition phase begins. The Catagen/ Transition phase is the shortest of the phases lasting roughly two to three weeks [1]. In this phase, the hair follicle detaches from the blood supply and halts hair growth. STALLING!!
Telogen (Resting) Phase
After the Catagen phase, hair enters the Telogen, resting stage. This phase last approximately three months. Studies have indicated that 10-15% of hair is in the telogen phase at any given time [2]. However, more recent studies show the number to be closer to 3.6% [1].
Exogen (Shedding) Phase
The Exogen shedding phase, is the final phase of the hair cycle. Hair completely detaches and falls out during the exogen phase. All hair eventually enters the exogen phase. Hair can shed 50 to 100 strands per day [2].
Once the hair has completed the exogen phase, the hair growth cycle begins again with a new follicle in the anagen phase.
So, the next time you feel like your hair is stalling, know the Catagen Phase doesn’t last forever. The Anagen Phase is just around the corner!
References
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[1] Grymowicz, M., Rudnicka, E., Podfigurna, A., Napierala, P., Smolarczyk, R., Smolarczyk, K., & Meczekalski, B. (2020). Hormonal Effects on Hair Follicles. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 21(15), 5342. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms21155342
[2] Welsch, C. (2020, August 21). Understanding the Hair Growth Cycle. Toppik Blog. https://www.toppik.com/hairtoppiksblog/understanding-hair-growth-cycle/
