Article: How does Hair Growth work?
How does Hair Growth work?
Have you ever wondered how your hair grows? Hair growth is a complex process that goes through different phases. Understanding the different stages of your natural hair cycle can offer solutions to common hair (loss) issues and promote enhanced hair growth.
Let's start by explaining the four hair growth phases, their duration and the factor that influence hair growth.
The Four Stages of the Hair Growth Cycle are:
- Anagen Phase
- Catagen Phase
- Telogen Phase
- Exogen Phase
Anagen Phase: The Growing Stage
Duration 2-6 years
The anagen phase is the active growth stage of the hair follicles. During this phase, hair follicles are in continuous growth, and new hair is produced. The anagen phase typically lasts between two to six years, and the length of this phase is determined by various factors. These factors include genetics, age, gender, and overall health.
For example, young people tend to have longer anagen phases than older people. Women also tend to have longer anagen phases than men. Good health and nutrition can also contribute to a longer anagen phase. On the other hand, stress, illness, and poor nutrition can cause the anagen phase to be shorter, leading to hair thinning or hair loss.
It is important to note that not all hair follicles are in the same stage of the hair growth cycle simultaneously. While some follicles are in the anagen phase, others may be in the catagen or telogen phase. This is why hair grows at different rates, and why some hair may appear thicker and fuller than others.
Catagen Phase: The Transition Stage
Duration approximately 2 weeks
The catagen phase, also known as the transition phase, marks the end of the anagen phase and the beginning of the telogen phase. This stage lasts for about 2 weeks and is a critical phase for hair growth.
During the catagen phase, hair follicles transition from the active growth stage into a state of regression. The hair shaft moves upward toward the surface of the scalp while the lower part of the follicle is destroyed and reabsorbed by the body.
This process prepares the hair follicles for the telogen phase, where the hair follicles remain dormant and do not produce new hair. It's important to note that the length of the catagen phase can vary depending on individual factors such as genetics and age, with longer catagen phases resulting in shorter hair growth cycles.
Telogen Phase: The Resting Stage
Duration 3-4 months
During the telogen phase, also known as the resting phase, hair follicles remain inactive and do not grow. This phase typically lasts for 3-4 months, but unfortunately it can also take more time, some people have it even for years. Approximately 10-15% of hair strands are in the telogen phase at any given time.
It's important to note that not all hair strands are in the same phase of the growth cycle at the same time. This is why people often experience fluctuations in hair thickness or shedding - some follicles may be in the telogen phase while others are actively growing.
The telogen phase is a natural part of the hair growth cycle, and it's necessary to allow hair strands to rest before they can start growing again. However, excessive shedding or prolonged resting periods may indicate underlying issues that require further attention.
To promote healthy telogen phases and prevent excessive shedding, it's important to maintain a balanced diet, avoid harsh hair treatments, and regularly care for the scalp and hair.
Exogen Phase: The Final Stage
The final stage of the Hair Growth Cycle, during which individual hair strands are released from their follicles and fall out, restarting the entire process.
Disrupted Hair Growth Cycle, What Will Happen?
Each hair follicle operates independently and goes through the growth cycle at different times to prevent all hair from falling out simultaneously. Typically, only a specific number of hairs shed each day—around 80 to 100 hairs on a healthy head.
Hair loss, thinning, and growth problems may occur when your growth cycle faces disruptions, triggered by factors like metabolic imbalances, illness, or inadequate nutrition.
For instance, about 12 weeks after restrictive dieting or a high fever, you may experience telogen effluvium (sudden diffuse hair fall). This occurs when the anagen (growth) phase is cut short, and many hairs simultaneously enter the telogen (resting) phase—resulting in increased hair fall during the exogen (shedding) phase three months later.
Constant disruptions to your hair growth cycle, such as inadequate nutrition, may result in your hair not growing as long as it used to. This is because your hairs don't stay in the anagen phase long enough to achieve the desired length.
How To Boost Your Hair Growth Knowing The Hair Growth Cycle
To get the desired length you need to stay in the Anagen Phase long enough and be in the Telogen Phase as short as you can.
Even though factors like genetics, age and gender play an important role in this, there are ways to boost your hair growth and minimize hair loss.
Diet & Nutrition
Maintaining a consistent diet rich in vitamins, iron, fiber, and protein helps regulate your Hair Growth Cycle. You can also incorporate nutritional supplements into your daily routine for an extra layer of control.
Minimize Stress
Stress can prolong the 'resting' phases of the cycle where new hair isn't growing. Adopting stress-minimizing techniques can benefit your hair. Learn more about stress and its impact on your hair here.
Prioritize Your Scalp Health
Using products for your scalp type, whether dealing with excessive hair loss or thinning hair maximizes the benefits for each cycle. Using a custom made scalp oil for your scalp type is the best way to start. Afsennah Custom Hair Growth Solution is a custom made scalp oil, formulated by our Certified Advanced Trichologist based on the results of your online consultation. Combine the Custom Growth Solution with our Scalp Roller and you will boost your hair growth much faster.
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