How Does Hair Grow? Understanding the Four Phases of Hair Growth

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Hair growth is a complex process with different phases. The first three phases — anagen (growth), catagen (transition), and telogen (resting) — guide the development of hair and the activity of the hair follicles that create individual hairs. In the last phase, exogen, the old hair sheds, but a new hair is usually getting ready to take its place. This whole cycle is influenced by genes, hormones, and the environment, ensuring a constant renewal of hair growth.


Here's a simplified explanation of how hair grows:

  1. Anagen Phase (Growing Phase): This is the active phase of hair growth. Cells in the hair bulb divide rapidly, and new hair is formed. During this phase, hair can grow at a rate of about half an inch per month. The length of the anagen phase is primarily determined by genetics and can last anywhere from two to seven years.


  2. Catagen Phase (Transition Phase): This is a short, transitional phase that signals the end of the active growth of a hair strand. The hair follicle shrinks and detaches from the dermal papilla.


  3. Telogen Phase (Resting Phase): In this phase, the hair follicle is at rest, and no new growth occurs. The hair strand is fully formed but not actively growing. About 10-15% of hairs are in this phase at any given time, and it lasts for about three months.


  4. Exogen Phase (Shedding Phase): This is a phase where the old hair is shed to make way for new hair growth. During this phase, the old hair is pushed out of the follicle by the new hair coming in.

After the exogen phase, the hair follicle goes back to the anagen phase, and the cycle begins again. It's important to note that different hairs on your body may be in different phases of the hair growth cycle at any given time.

The regulation of hair growth is influenced by a combination of genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors. Hormones, especially androgens like testosterone, play a significant role in the regulation of hair growth. Conditions such as age, genetics, hormonal changes, and overall health can affect the length and thickness of the hair growth cycle.



What can we do to improve the anagen phase?

Improving the anagen phase of hair growth involves adopting healthy lifestyle practices and addressing factors that can positively influence hair follicle health. While genetics plays a significant role in determining the length of the anagen phase, the following tips may contribute to overall hair health and potentially support a more robust growth phase:

  1. Balanced Diet: Ensure you have a well-rounded diet rich in vitamins and minerals, especially those essential for hair health, like biotin, vitamin A, vitamin E, and omega-3 fatty acids. Good nutrition supports the growth of healthy hair.


  2. Scalp Care: Keep your scalp clean and healthy. Regular washing with a mild shampoo can help prevent conditions that may hinder hair growth, such as dandruff or excess oil.


  3. Gentle Hair Care: Avoid excessive heat styling, chemical treatments, and tight hairstyles that can cause damage to the hair shaft and stress to the follicles. Treat your hair gently to prevent breakage.


  4. Regular Exercise: Regular physical activity can improve blood circulation, which is important for delivering nutrients to the hair follicles. Exercise may contribute to overall hair health.


  5. Adequate Sleep: Ensure you get enough quality sleep. Sleep is essential for overall well-being, and lack of sleep can contribute to stress, which may impact hair growth.


  6. Manage Stress: Chronic stress can contribute to hair loss. Practice stress management techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises to reduce stress levels.


  7. Stay Hydrated: Drink enough water to maintain overall health, including the health of your hair. Dehydration can affect hair growth and quality.


  8. Avoid Smoking: Smoking has been linked to hair loss. Quitting smoking can have positive effects on overall health, including the health of your hair.

It's important to note that while these practices may contribute to the overall health of your hair, individual results can vary, and the impact on the anagen phase may be limited by genetic factors. If you have concerns about hair growth or notice significant changes, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or a dermatologist for personalized advice and evaluation.


Top Three Hair Growth Oils on Amazon

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Sky Organics Organic Castor Oil (16 oz), USDA Certified Organic, 100% Pure, Cold Pressed, Hexane Free, Boost Hair Growth

* Has over 62,000 5-star reviews on Amazon



Handcraft Rosemary Essential Oil - 100% Pure and Natural - Premium Therapeutic Grade with Premium Glass Dropper - Huge 4 fl. Oz

  • ROSEMARY OIL FOR HAIR GROWTH – Rosemary essential oil is a natural hair growth oil for healthy hair growth and dry scalp treatment. Rosemary oil is soothing on the scalp and a perfect hair oil for dry damaged hair.

* Has over 93,000 5 star reviews on Amazon



MIELLE Mielle rosemary mint growth oil

Infused w/biotin & encourages growth. For: daily use; scalp treatment; split end care. Enjoy! Infused with rosemary, mint, and biotin to invigorate the hair and scalp to encourage healthier, stronger, longer hair while providing shine and smoothing split ends. Great for hair of all types and textures, protective styles including braids and weaves and chemically treated hair. Helps improve length retention. Invigorates & nourishes hair follicles. Conditions dry scalp. Smooths split ends. No parabens, no sulfates, no paraffins, no mineral oil, no DEA. No animal testing. Made in the USA.

* Has over 64,000 5 star reviews on Amazon



Your researcher and author,

Marisa