Nature’s marvel, hair growth, is an intricate process with several phases, each contributing towards lock length, thickness, and well-being. These phases of hair growth enable one to understand how hairs grow, the aspects affecting the rate at which they develop, and their quality.
Three Phases Define Hair Growth
1. Growing Stage
The active growth of hair follicles occurs during the anagen, also called the growing Stage. This Stage lasts between two and seven years, and it governs how long our hair will grow. Cell division is high in the hair follicles, and this causes hair growth that averages about half an inch per month. Factors like genetics, age, and health influence the phase length. People who have a longer anagen phase of hair growth will develop longer hairs in their heads.
2. Transition Stage
The hair then undergoes a catagen phase that follows the anagen phase. This phase lasts about two to three weeks, providing only a tiny pause in hair growth. The hair follicles shrink, causing it to become disconnected from the dermal papilla. This cuts off the blood supply to the hair. As a result, the hair grows stunted, called club hair.
3. Resting Stage
The third phase of hair growth is called Telogen, a period of rest for the hair follicle. It extends across about three months. The anagen phase occurs at any particular time and makes up about 10-15% of our hair. The old hair rests while the new one grows inside it during the anagen phase. The recent growth pushes out the old coat, ushering in the next hair cycle.
What Affects Hair Growth
- Genes: Mostly, the length and speed at which your hair grows and goes through these stages are largely genetically determined.
● Age: Your hair will get slower since the growing phase lasts a shorter period.
- Hormones, Food, and Stress: Hormone changes (for instance, during pregnancy), proper diets, and handling stress can also impact hair growth. Hair is dependent on good nutrition, including vitamins and minerals.
- Outside Factors: Some factors that may influence your hair growth are pollution, too much sun, or stress. Sometimes, stress may cause your hair to thin more.
Helping Your Hair Grow
Self-care aids in proper hair growth. Your hair will be much better if you feed well, exercise, properly care for your hair, and handle stress.
Conclusion
Learn about what factors make your hair grow and maintain a healthy scalp. Genes are essential, but consuming nutritious foods, stress management, and avoiding hair damage are all valuable ways to help hair growth and general health. Focus on taking care of yourself internally and externally because this can significantly impact the phase of hair growth on your outer appearance.
