Hair growth phases

Most people think that throughout life we will have only the hair that we see on the surface. But it's not. Therefore, it is so important to know the phases of hair growth, especially if you are a fan of depilation, or hair removal.

Like millions of men and women, you may have noticed that once thick, thick, shiny and (dare I say) youthful hair has begun to look dull, lifeless, dry and thin as we age. And despite the endless number of topical procedures and products on the beauty market that claim to be able to restore hair from the outside - this is not always possible.

For this, you need to have an idea about the phases and cycles of hair growth, in order to understand how to properly maintain its health from the inside, or, in the case of depilation or epilation, at what point is it best to get rid of it.

What is the hair growth cycle

Genetics determines the system of growth and dormancy of hair follicles. Each hair follicle has its own life cycle. First in the phase of a long period of growth, followed by a relatively short period of rest. During the dormant period, the hair is still attached to the bulb, but it does not grow. After the resting phase, the hair falls out and is replaced by another hair, starting a new growth cycle.

As we age, the hair follicles are programmed to slow down hair regeneration and spend more time in the resting phase. Probably hinting at the fact that it is time for us to rest a little more! :) But let's look at everything in more detail.

Hair growth phases

Each hair goes through four stages: anagen, catagen, telogen and exogen. And each hair is at a different stage of the growth cycle.

Anagen (growth phase)

During the anagen phase, your hair is actively and continuously growing. This continues for 3-5 years, although in some people anagen reaches a time span of 7 years.

The duration of this phase of hair growth determines the maximum length of your hair. That is, the longer the anagen stage is, the longer your hair can grow. For most people, this is between 45 and 75 centimeters.

Over time, the length of the anagen stage decreases. Therefore, the hair may become weaker and thinner after each anagen cycle. That's why it's so important to make sure you're getting enough nutrients to maintain healthy hair growth.

Catagen (regression phase)

After the hair follicle completes its anagen phase, the next stage begins - catagen, the regression phase. The hair follicle in this phase will gradually decrease in size and break away from the skin, starting the process of shedding.

Despite the fact that at this stage the hair is already a little torn off, it “sits still” for a long time and do not grow out until new hairs push it out.

Telogen (resting phase)

After the hair follicle has passed into catagen and separated from the skin, a dormant period begins - telogen. This phase usually lasts 3 to 5 months before the hair is "pushed out" by new hair growth.

In most people, 10-20% of hair is in the telogen stage on a permanent basis. Sometimes, if a person is under constant stress, or physically unhealthy, the amount of hair entering the telogen phase can increase, and, accordingly, lead to more active hair loss.

Hair loss after childbirth is very common. But don't panic girls! :) This is due to the natural renewal of hair on the background of a hormonal surge, and in 97% of cases, the hair grows back. So, you just have to experience it.

Exogen (fallout phase)

Once new hairs begin to grow, the old hairs enter the exogenous phase. At this stage, the old hairs are completely separated from the skin and fall out.

As new hair grows, it replaces old hair and completes the hair growth cycle.

How hair growth phases affect us

Knowing the phases of hair growth will help you get better hair removal procedures. If you have chosen laser hair removal for yourself, then it is worth sticking to a strict schedule for the procedures, for the simple reason that it will not make much sense if you have a laser hair removal session during the catogen or telogen phase.

In simple words, it makes sense to destroy the hair if it has already come off the skin itself. Therefore, for the greatest effectiveness, I advise you to carry out this procedure exclusively in the anagen phase.

In the case of wax depilation - everything is much simpler! :) And I can help you with this, regardless of the phase of hair growth!

I hope I didn’t completely confuse you with smart terms, and my information was useful to you! :)