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Hair Growth Timeline

This article is medically reviewed by Dr. Kuddusi Onay

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What is the Hair Growth Timeline?

Hair growth follows a specific cycle that includes distinct phases, each playing a vital role in the overall process of growing hair. Understanding the timeline of hair growth is essential for managing expectations, especially for individuals undergoing treatments for hair loss or trying to improve their hair health. On average, human hair grows about half an inch per month, but this rate can vary depending on genetics, age, and overall health. The complete hair growth cycle typically spans several years and consists of the anagen (growth), catagen (transition), and telogen (resting) phases.

The Anagen Phase: The Growth Stage

The anagen phase is the active growth stage of the hair cycle and can last anywhere from two to seven years, depending on genetics and health factors. During this phase, the hair follicle is deeply rooted in the scalp, and the hair shaft actively grows. The length of this phase determines how long your hair can potentially grow. Individuals with a longer anagen phase can grow longer hair, while those with a shorter anagen phase may find it difficult to achieve long hair. Approximately 85% of the hair on a healthy scalp is in the anagen phase at any given time.

The Catagen Phase: The Transition Stage

The catagen phase is a short transition phase that lasts about two to three weeks. During this time, hair growth slows down, and the hair follicle begins to shrink, detaching from the blood supply that nourishes it. This phase marks the end of active hair growth, but the hair does not fall out immediately. Instead, it remains in place while the follicle prepares to enter the next stage. Only about 1% of your hair is in the catagen phase at any given time, making it a relatively quick but essential part of the hair growth cycle.

The Telogen Phase: The Resting Stage

The telogen phase is the resting phase of the hair growth cycle, lasting around three to four months. During this phase, the hair follicle remains inactive, and the hair is no longer growing. Eventually, the old hair will be pushed out as new hair begins to grow from the same follicle. This phase accounts for about 10-15% of the hair on your scalp at any time. Telogen hairs are the ones you typically notice shedding naturally, especially during brushing or washing. It is normal to lose between 50-100 hairs per day as part of this natural cycle.

While you can’t drastically speed up the natural growth rate, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, using growth-boosting products, and getting regular trims can support optimal hair growth

During the anagen phase, hair actively grows from the follicle. This phase can last for several years, depending on your genetics and overall health.

Stress can push more hair follicles into the telogen (resting) phase, leading to temporary hair loss or slower growth

Yes, losing 50-100 hairs per day is a normal part of the hair growth cycle, particularly as older hairs are shed during the telogen phase

Yes, as you age, the length of the anagen phase may shorten, leading to slower hair growth and thinner hair

Yes, treatments like finasteride or minoxidil can help to alter the hair growth timeline by extending the anagen phase and reducing hair loss.

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