Although it could appear to be a simple process since hair develops and then falls out, the actual cycle of hair development consists of four distinct stages that take place in sequential order. Extensive research has been conducted on these three stages of hair growth to know more about the phase of hair growth and what, if anything, can be done to manage or prevent the premature thinning of hair.
The first three stages of the hair-growth cycle, known as anagen, catagen, and telogen, respectively, are responsible for the development and maturation of the hair as well as the behaviors of the follicles that produce individual strands. The final stage is called the exogen phase, and it is during this phase that “old” hair comes out. During this phase, another strand of hair forms to replace the one falling out.
Each phase develops at a unique pace, which may be quickened or slowed down based on factors like age, food, and overall health. You can alter the rate at which every phase develops in several ways. This suggests that during the process, you can take steps to ensure that the hair grows in accordance with its natural cycle. The next section contains the guidelines for these measures. Keep reading to learn more about this topic.
Anagen: The Growth Phase
The first stage of development in the phases of hair growth is known as the anagen stage. It is the stage that can extend anywhere between 3 to 5 years. On the other hand, a single hair on the head of certain people can keep growing for as long as seven years or more.
The fortunate thing is that the anagen stage develops uniquely in different hair types. An example of this would be how the anagen stage of hair development in genital and eyebrows hairs is noticeably shorter than the anagen stage of hair growth on the scalp. The anagen phase is occupied by approximately 90% of the hair follicles on the scalp at any given time.
Catagen: The Transition Stage
Once the anagen stage has concluded, the cell transitions into the catagen phases, which usually lasts for little more than ten days at the very most. The hair follicles will become more contracted during this phase, which will result in a reduced pace of hair creation.
Although it is separated from the follicle’s root, the hair will not fall out in the last few days of its development phase. This is because the hair is still attached to the follicle’s root. It is estimated that just about 5% of the hairs are in the transition phase at any given time.
Telogen: The Resting Phase
This stage typically lasts for about three months on average. It is believed that around 10% and 15% of the hairs are in the phase. The period of the hair growth cycle known as the resting phase is characterized by the absence of both hair growth and hair loss. Those follicles which have freshly emerged from the catagen stage will initiate the production of new hairs during this point of their cycle.
In the subsequent anagen phase, these new strands will take the place of the follicles lost in the catagen stage. Most researchers have divided this phase into the telogen and exogen stages, even though certain health professionals consider the telogen stage as the shedding phase.
Exogenous: The Shedding Phase
This phase is either an elongation of the telogen stage or a component of it when it comes to the process of hair development. Washing and brushing the hair during the exogen stage can often facilitate the shedding of hair from the scalp, which occurs during this phase of the hair growth cycle. During the exogen phase, it is not uncommon to lose anywhere from 50 – 100 strands of hair per day.
How To Maintain the Health of Your Hair Through All of Its Phases
The health and hair thickness are primarily determined by your genes and hormones, which are beyond your control. On the other hand, some factors are entirely under your control, such as maintaining a healthy lifestyle and giving careful attention to hair care. The following are a few strategies that have proven to be most effective throughout all four stages:
Eat Healthily
We need certain nutrients for our bodies to function correctly; similarly, our hair needs certain nutrients to stay healthy. One strategy for maintaining healthy hair is to increase the quantity of protein consumed daily. Fish, walnuts, and lean meat are all excellent examples of foods with high protein content. Consuming meals rich in vitamin C and D, in conjunction with foods high in zinc, iron, and other minerals, can also promote healthier hair.
Managing The Effects of Stress
The ability to effectively manage stress not only adds to a healthier and longer life but also helps to a healthier and longer lifespan for the hair. Stress management can be significantly helped by yoga, meditation, and several other relaxation exercises. Engaging in regular activity and devoting a certain amount of time daily to pursuing personal hobbies and interests is yet another method for coping with the adverse effects of stress.
Take The Necessary Steps to Keep Your Hair Healthy
Maintaining the hair’s health and ensuring that it continues to be in good shape may be accomplished by applying the appropriate conditioner and shampoo regularly. Medical professionals recommend drying the hair properly, as hair that is damp is more susceptible to damage. It would be best if you also resisted shampooing your hair with hot water because doing so might cause harm to the hair.
Experts in the scientific community are still attempting to unravel why different people’s hair grows at varying rates. If you think you are losing your hair faster than usual, you should talk to a qualified medical practitioner. Receiving treatment at the appropriate time can help stop additional hair loss and maintain healthy hair.
Conclusion
A lot of factors can influence the hair growth phase. Since no one treatment will work for everybody, you will have to go with a trial-and-error process till you find the solution that is most suited to your needs.
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