The Hair Loss Encyclopedia
process where hair follicles undergo growth, transition, and rest phases
The Hair Growth Cycle, also known as Hair Follicle Cycling, consists of three main phases: anagen (growth phase), catagen (transitional phase), and telogen (resting phase). During the anagen phase, hair actively grows from the follicle, which can last several years. The catagen phase is a short period where growth stops, and the hair follicle shrinks. Finally, in the telogen phase, the hair rests before eventually falling out, making way for new hair to begin the cycle again. Understanding these phases is crucial for diagnosing and treating hair loss conditions like alopecia.