The final phase of hair growth telogen is when hair growth is completed and the hair fiber falls out generally 10 15 of the hair on a human head is in this phase at any given time which lasts for 100 days before the first phase anagen begins again

The Final Phase of Hair Growth: Telogen

Hair growth is a fascinating biological process that goes through various stages. One of the key phases of hair growth is known as telogen. In this phase, hair growth is completed, and the hair fiber eventually falls out. Understanding the telogen phase is essential to comprehend the complexity of hair growth and how our locks undergo constant renewal.

During the telogen phase, approximately 10-15% of the hair on the human head is in this particular stage at any given time. This phase lasts for around 100 days before the first phase, known as anagen, begins again. The anagen phase is the active growth phase, during which new hair fibers are produced, and the hair lengthens.

To understand why the telogen phase is crucial, we have to delve into the intricate process of hair growth. Hair follicles, present below the surface of the scalp, produce hair through a continuous cycle of phases. The anagen phase, which accounts for the majority of the hair growth cycle, is followed by the catagen phase, a transitional stage where hair growth stops. Finally, we reach the telogen phase, where hair growth is completed, and the hair fiber falls out.

During the telogen phase, the hair follicle is in a resting state. The hair fiber is no longer connected to the blood supply and is pushed out by the growth of a new hair strand beneath it. Although it may seem alarming to witness hair fall out during this phase, it is a natural and necessary part of the hair growth cycle.

It is important to note that hair strands do not fall out synchronously. If they did, we would experience significant hair loss at once. Instead, individual hair follicles enter the telogen phase at different times, ensuring a continuous growth cycle. This is why it is considered normal to lose approximately 50-100 hairs per day, as older hairs enter the telogen phase and are naturally shed.

While the duration of the telogen phase is typically around 100 days, variations can occur depending on various factors such as genetics, age, health, and hormonal changes. Factors like stress, nutritional deficiencies, medical conditions, and certain medications can also influence the hair growth cycle and potentially prolong the telogen phase.

In conclusion, the final phase of hair growth, known as telogen, is when hair growth is completed and the hair fiber falls out. This phase accounts for 10-15% of the hair on a human head at any given time and lasts for approximately 100 days before the anagen phase begins again. By understanding the intricacies of the hair growth cycle, we can better appreciate the natural shedding of hair during the telogen phase and ensure healthy hair growth overall.

Sourced from Library of Congress - Everyday Mysteries