During which phase is hair actively growing?

The anagen phase is the active growth phase of hair follicles. During this stage, hair cells are rapidly dividing, which leads to the production of new hair strands. This phase can last for several years, resulting in significant hair length and thickness. The duration of the anagen phase varies among individuals and can be influenced by factors such as genetics, health, and overall hair care practices. Understanding this phase is crucial for estheticians as it directly relates to hair growth patterns and treatment options for clients experiencing hair loss or thinning.

In contrast, the telogen phase is a resting phase where hair is no longer actively growing; it eventually gets shed. The catagen phase is a transitional phase that occurs after the anagen phase, where hair growth slows, and the hair follicle begins to shrink. The exogen phase is often considered an extension of the telogen phase, where old hair is shed and new hair is beginning to emerge, but active growth is not taking place.