What is the anagen phase?

The anagen phase is indeed recognized as the growth phase of hair. During this phase, the hair follicles are actively producing hair and the hair itself is growing. This phase can last several years and is critical for determining the overall length of the hair.

During the anagen phase, cells in the hair bulb divide rapidly, pushing the hair shaft upward and out of the scalp. This phase is essential for achieving long hair and healthy hair growth. After the anagen phase, hair transitions into the catagen phase, which is a short transitional stage where hair growth slows down, and then moves into the telogen phase, where the hair rests before eventually shedding.

Understanding the characteristics of each phase of the hair growth cycle is important in cosmetology as it influences hair care practices, treatments, and overall hair health management. The anagen phase stands out particularly because it is the only phase that allows for significant lengthening of the hair.