What is the active phase of hair growth called?

The active phase of hair growth is known as Anagen. During this phase, the hair follicles are actively producing hair, which leads to the lengthening of the hair strand. Anagen is the longest phase in the hair growth cycle, lasting several years, and is crucial for the development of healthy, strong hair.

In this phase, cells in the hair bulb divide rapidly, pushing older cells up and out, which eventually keratinizes to form the hair shaft. The presence and duration of the Anagen phase can significantly affect hair length and density.

Other phases of the hair growth cycle do not involve active growth. For instance, Telogen is the resting phase where the hair is not growing and eventually falls out, while Catagen is a transitional phase where hair growth slows down and the hair follicle shrinks. Progen is not recognized in standard hair growth terminology. Understanding these phases, particularly Anagen, is essential for comprehending hair health and hair loss treatments.