How have you been? Trust we are good. Today, we will be looking at the process of hair growth. The hair growth cycle consists of three stages or phases namely; Anagen, Catagen and Telogen. The names are derived by using the Greek prefixes ana-, kata- and telos-, meaning up, down and end respectively.
Anagen Phase
This is the growth phase of hair follicles. During this phase, the hair grows about 1/2 an inch every month usually faster during warm climate than cold climate. This phase lasts about an average of 3-7 years or more as it also depends on genetics. Normally, 85%-90% of the hair follicles are in the anagen phase.
Catagen Phase
This is known as the transition phase. It occurs after the anagen. It signals the end of the growth of a hair follicle. This phase lasts for about 2-3 weeks. The hair follicle will shrink about 1/6 of its original length. The lower part of the hair will be destroyed as its blood supply will be cut off. During this process, a new hair (club hair) will be produced. After this, the hair enters the telogen phase. About 1%-2% of hair follicles are in this phase.
Telogen Phase
This is known as the resting phase. The hair is released and eventually falls off. The follicle then remains inactive and does not grow any hair. This period lasts about 5-6 weeks. Overall about 10%-15% of the hairs on our scalp are in this phase. Once it is over, the anagen phase begins again. Thus, completing the hair growth cycle.
The time these phases lasts varies per individual. Different hair colour and shapes of follicles also affect the timing of these phases. Note that each hair strand goes through these phases each at its own pace and not altogether at once, if not all the hair on our scalp will fall out once they reach the telogen phase. Lol.
Even our eyebrows are not left out as they also go through these phases. The anagen lasts about 4-7 months, catagen for about 3-4 weeks, while the telogen lasts about 9 months. Hmm, now that's a long time.
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