Your hair goes through many stages of a cycle, with each phase lasting for a different period, dependent on the individual. Unexpected hair loss can often lead to scrambling across the internet for answers, although there may be a different explanation for this problem.
Here’s how the Hair Growth Cycle Works…
Anagen Phase
The Hair Growth Cycle begins in the Anagen/Growing Phase, which differs with different types of hair. During this transition, the follicles are pushing out hairs that will continue to grow until cut, reach the end of their lifespan or fall out.
Around 90% of the hairs on your head are currently in the Anagen/Growing Phase. This is common for all heads of hair.
Catagen Phase
The Catagen/Transition Phase begins when the Anagen phase ends.
This tends to last around 10 days or so, whereby hair follicles shrink and hair growth slows. The hair also separates from the bottom of the follicle.
Only around 5% of the hairs on your head will be in the Catagen/Transition Phase.
Telogen Phase
This resting phase typically lasts around 3 months, as an estimate 10-15% of your scalp hairs are in the Telogen/Resting phase.
Hairs do not grow in this phase, and it is rare for them to fall out. New hairs start to form in follicles from the previous Catagen/Transition Phase.
Although commonly known as the Telogen/Resting Phase, some scientists and professionals consider this as the ‘Shedding Phase’.
Exogen Phase
Now, not to confuse you but THIS is what is commonly known as the Shedding Phase by many!
The difference is that this is an extension of the Telogen/Resting Phase of hair growth. Hair is shed from the scalp (helped by washing and brushing), with this phase lasting anywhere between 2 to 5 months.
As new hairs grow in the follicles, old hairs fall away. You can lose between 50-100 hairs a day during this Exogen/Shedding Phase.
Every head of hair can be at a different stage of the growth cycle at any given time. With an overview of the Hair Growth Cycle, this may be helpful for those looking to understand their scalp condition in more detail.
What is the Solution?
Luckily, hair is one of the few tissues in the body which can replenish over time, but only with the right solutions. Click here to view the solutions available to start your journey to a stronger head of hair.
Explore the full Herbal Hair product range here
If you still have further queries regarding your hair condition and assessment, please feel free to contact the Herbal Hair team on info@herbalhair.com.
