Understanding the Hair Growth Cycle: How to Prevent Hair Loss and Support Healthy Growth
Hair is more than just a part of our appearance; it's a dynamic and living structure that undergoes a fascinating growth cycle. Understanding how hair grows, sheds, and how to manage hair loss is crucial for maintaining a healthy head of hair. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the science behind hair growth, the difference between normal shedding and hair loss, and practical tips for preventing and managing hair loss.
The Hair Growth Cycle and Stages
Hair growth occurs in a cyclical pattern with four main stages:
Anagen (Growth Phase)
The Anagen phase is the active growth phase where hair cells rapidly divide to produce new hair. It lasts 2–7 years depending on genetics. Hair can grow about half an inch per month during this phase, and the length of your hair is determined by its duration.
Catagen (Transition Phase)
The Catagen phase is a short transition lasting 2–4 weeks. Hair follicles shrink, growth stops, and the hair detaches from the dermal papilla, ending active growth.
Telogen (Resting Phase)
During Telogen, hair rests for 3–4 months. Hair does not grow but remains in the follicle until it is shed to make way for new growth.
Exogen (Shedding Phase)
The Exogen phase involves the shedding of old hair, overlapping with Telogen. This clears the follicle for new growth and maintains healthy hair density.
Relevant Scalp & Hair Facts
- Hair Follicles: The scalp has approximately 100,000–150,000 hair follicles, each capable of growing hair through the cycle stages.
-
Hair Structure:
- Cuticle: Outermost protective layer
- Cortex: Provides strength, elasticity, and colour
- Medulla: Central core in some hair types
- Scalp Health: A clean, moisturized, and healthy scalp promotes optimal hair growth.
Normal Hair Shedding vs Hair Loss
Shedding 50–100 hairs daily is normal and part of the growth cycle. Excessive or persistent shedding may indicate hair loss, which can have multiple causes.
Seasonal Hair Shedding
Many people experience increased shedding in fall or spring. Environmental changes such as daylight and temperature influence this pattern. Summer heat and sun exposure can also weaken hair temporarily.
Types of Hair Loss
- Androgenetic Alopecia: Genetic pattern baldness, gradual thinning influenced by hormones like DHT.
- Telogen Effluvium: Stress, illness, or hormonal changes push follicles into Telogen phase prematurely.
- Alopecia Areata: Autoimmune attack on follicles causing patchy hair loss.
- Traction Alopecia: Hair loss due to tight hairstyles causing tension on follicles.
- Cicatricial Alopecia: Scarring alopecia caused by follicle-destroying inflammation.
Causes of Hair Loss
- Genetics: Family history increases risk.
- Hormonal Changes: Pregnancy, menopause, thyroid disorders.
- Stress: Disrupts hair cycle, can lead to Telogen Effluvium.
- Medical Conditions: Thyroid disorders, autoimmune diseases.
- Nutritional Deficiencies: Iron, vitamin D, biotin, and protein are essential for hair health.
Preventing Hair Loss
- Balanced Diet: Include vitamins, minerals, and protein-rich foods.
- Avoid Excessive Heat & Chemicals: Minimize styling and chemical treatments.
- Manage Stress: Yoga, meditation, hobbies.
- Gentle Hair Care: Use mild shampoos and avoid tight hairstyles.
- Regular Scalp Care: Keep scalp clean and moisturized.
Conclusion
Understanding the hair growth cycle, distinguishing normal shedding from hair loss, and addressing causes allows you to maintain healthy, strong hair. Combined with a balanced diet, scalp care, and gentle hair practices, you can minimize hair loss and support vibrant hair growth.
Holistic Hair offers a range of Shampoos & Conditioners, Extra Care, Styling, Travel Sizes, Haircare Collections, and Accessories to support hair health. We are proudly B CORP & Vegan Certified, Vegetarian Approved & Plastic Neutral + with Cleanhub.
About the Author:
Nicky James-Baird is the Co-Owner of Holistic Hair, a premium natural hair care brand based in New Zealand. She holds a Diploma of Higher Associate Trichologist from the World Trichology Society in New York and a Diploma in Personal Care Formulating. Nicky brings expertise in scalp and hair health and a commitment to sustainable, plant-based product development.
