Introduction
Have you ever wondered why your hair grows, sheds, and regrows in a cycle? Hair growth isn’t random – it follows a natural biological rhythm known as the hair growth cycle. By understanding the 4 stages of hair growth, you can take better care of your hair, prevent unnecessary hair loss, and support healthier, thicker strands.
1. Anagen Phase – The Growth Stage
The anagen phase is the active growth stage of the hair cycle. Around 85–90% of your hair is in this phase at any given time.
- Duration: 2–7 years (varies by genetics and health)
- Activity: Cells in the root divide rapidly, adding length to the hair shaft.
- Importance: The longer your hair stays in anagen, the longer it can grow.
How to support it: Eating protein-rich foods, massaging the scalp for better circulation, and using natural hair oils can prolong the anagen phase.
2. Catagen Phase – The Transition Stage
The catagen phase is a short transitional period lasting about 2–3 weeks.
- Activity: Hair stops actively growing.
- The follicle shrinks and detaches from the blood supply.
- Only about 1–2% of hair is in this stage.
Why it matters: Proper scalp care during this stage can ensure smooth transition and reduce premature shedding.
3. Telogen Phase – The Resting Stage
The telogen phase lasts about 3–4 months.
- Approximately 10–15% of hair is in this stage.
- Old hair remains in the follicle while new hair begins to form underneath.
- Stress, illness, or poor diet can push more hair into telogen, leading to telogen effluvium (sudden shedding).
Tip: Balanced nutrition, hydration, and stress management are key to minimizing hair loss during this stage.
4. Exogen Phase – The Shedding Stage
The exogen phase is when the old hair finally sheds, making way for new strands.
- Shedding 50–100 hairs per day is completely normal.
- Brushing, washing, or styling usually dislodges these old hairs.
- A healthy scalp will quickly replace shed hair with new growth.
Best practice: Gentle handling of hair during this stage prevents unnecessary breakage.
Conclusion
The 4 stages of hair growth – anagen, catagen, telogen, and exogen – are part of a continuous cycle that ensures your hair stays renewed and healthy. By supporting your scalp and body with good nutrition, hydration, and natural hair care practices, you can extend the growth phase, reduce hair loss, and maintain fuller, stronger hair.
If you’re noticing unusual shedding or thinning, it may be due to imbalances in the cycle – in such cases, a dermatologist or trichologist can provide deeper insights.
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