Hair growth is so normal to us that we don’t often think about how it really happens. Through a natural process called “the hair growth cycle”, our hair grows, falls out, and starts all over again—and that’s putting it simply. If you’re curious to know more about the stages of hair growth and how to maximize growth, keep reading.

What is the hair growth cycle?

The hair growth cycle is the natural process that determines how hair grows, rests, and sheds over time. Each strand of hair moves through three main stages: anagen (growth phase), catagen (transition phase), and telogen (resting phase). Most people focus on these three growth phases, but some experts say there is a fourth phase called exogen (shedding phase), where the hair falls out and is typically replaced by a new strand. 

Depending on factors like age, hormones, genetics, and lifestyle, each follicle can move through these stages at different times. It’s normal to shed some hair every day, experience slow growth, or even deal with hair loss at some point in your life.

Now, let’s take a closer look at each of the three main growth phases.

Anagen: Growing Phase

Throughout your life, your strands will spend the most amount of time in the anagen or growth phase. This phase often lasts anywhere from two to eight years as your hair continues to grow. 

During this time, your hair follicles are pushing out hairs that will continue to grow until your next haircut or until they naturally fall out. At any given time, about 85% to 90% of the hairs on your head are in the anagen phase, making it an important stage to understand. 

Catagen: Transition Phase

The catagen or transition phase immediately follows the anagen phase. It’s much shorter in length and tends to last for only about 2 weeks. At this point in the hair growth cycle, hair follicles start to shrink and hair growth slows. The individual strand also separates from the bottom of the hair follicle but remains in place during its final days of growth.

Experts say that only about 1% to 3% of your mane is in the catagen phase at any point in time.

Telogen: Resting Phase

Hairs don’t actually grow during the telogen or resting phase, but they don’t usually shed, either. This stage is mainly when new hairs begin to form in follicles and push out hairs that have just been released during the catagen phase. It’s for this reason that some health experts include the shedding phase in the telogen phase. That said, many scientists have separated this stage into another part known as the exogen phase.

Hairs are typically in the telogen phase for around 2 to 3 months, and about 9% of your scalp hairs are in this phase.

How to Support Hair Growth at Every Phase

While having thick, healthy-looking hair often depends on age, genetics, hormones, and other factors out of your control, there are many ways that you can encourage fuller hair growth at every step of your journey. Some of the best strategies include: 

- Good Nutrition: Focus on a healthy, protein-rich diet with Vitamins D and C and Iron. Fill any nutritional gaps with a nourishing hair supplement. 

- Reduced Stress: Stress can impact the hair growth cycle and cause temporary or chronic shedding. Prioritize self-care and relaxation to give your strands a boost. 

- Proper Hair Care: It’s important to be gentle on your strands by using less heat and the right hair care products. Plus, you’ll want to make scalp care part of your everyday routine. 

- Effective Hair Growth Products: If you notice hair loss or hair shedding, it may be time to start a hair growth routine to keep your hair in tip-top shape. 

Understanding how your hair grows can be the first step in achieving your dream hair. With the right nutrition, the right hair care, and a regular self-care routine, you can get the most out of the hair growth cycle. To learn more about the ins and outs of hair, be sure to follow us on social media.