To keep hair as healthy as possible it’s important to understand the different phases of hair growth and what happens during each specific phase. The following are four distinct phases of hair growth.
1. Anagen Phase
The first phase is when the hair is growing. It involves cells rapidly dividing. Almost 90 percent of all hair follicles are in this phase, which normally lasts two to seven years. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, each person is born with about 100,000 hair follicles.
Since this phase will determine how long hair will actually grow it’s important to take the right steps to promote hair growth. Making sure the scalp is well-conditioned with healthy ingredients like coconut oil may help stimulate growth.
2. Catagen Phase
This phase of hair growth is considered transitional and normally only lasts about two or three weeks. The hair is no longer growing during this phase and eventually becomes detached from the blood supply. During this time the hair follicle actually decreases in size.
It’s necessary to keep the scalp as healthy as possible during this time. Prevention suggests brushing hair before taking a shower to help remove dead skin cells that may clog the follicles. It may also help to exfoliate on a monthly basis. Just like on the body and face, good exfoliating products can help get rid of unwanted build-up on the scalp.
3. Telogen Phase
During this phase the hair is simply resting while new hair is being developed beneath. This time generally lasts around three months. Since the hair is nourished by the blood vessels around the base of each follicle, it’s important to maintain a healthy diet to make sure potential hair has all the nutrients necessary to grow.
Since protein plays a crucial role in the production of hair fibers, eating enough protein is obviously essential to growing healthy hair. Eggs and salmon are not only great sources of protein but are rich in omega-3 fatty acids that can help keep the follicles healthy and promote hair growth.
4. Exogen Phase
The final phase of hair growth is the exogen phase; which is the hair shedding. While the shedding of hair is a normal part of the hair growth process, excessive hair loss can be problematic. To decrease excessive hair loss it’s important to exercise regularly, get plenty of sleep and to stay hydrated. It’s also good to limit stress if at all possible.
Hair growth will continue through this cycle for most of each person’s life. For a thick, lustrous head of hair it’s important to keep the scalp, hair and overall health in good condition. If you’re suffering from hair loss Transitions of Wisconsin offers solutions utilizing the very latest hair restoration technology, including non-surgical hair replacement, medical hair transplantation, and laser hair loss treatment programs. If you’re interested in scheduling a free consultation, contact us today!
Photo Credit: StockSnap Via Pixabay
Sources:
https://www.aad.org/public/kids/hair/how-hair-grows
https://www.prevention.com/beauty/a20471938/scalp-health-tips/
