Understanding The Hair Growth Cycle

The hair growth cycle consists of three primary phases: anagen, catagen, and telogen. Each phase plays a unique role in the health and vitality of your hair. The anagen phase, in particular, is crucial as it lays the foundation for robust hair growth.

  • Anagen (Growing Phase)

  • Catagen (Transition Phase)

  • Telogen (Resting Phase)

  • Exogen (Shedding Phase)

The hair growth cycle begins with the anagen phase, which is the longest phase, lasting about 3 to 5 years for the hair on your head. In some cases, individual hairs may continue growing for 7 years or more.

Following the anagen phase is the catagen phase, which lasts approximately 10 days. During this time, hair follicles shrink, and hair growth slows. The hair detaches from the bottom of the follicle but remains in place during this final period of growth.

The telogen phase typically lasts around 3 months, with about 10 to 15 percent of your scalp hair in this phase at any given time. While hairs don’t grow during this phase, they usually don’t fall out either. This is also when new hairs begin to form in follicles that released hairs during the catagen phase.

The exogen phase is essentially an extension of the telogen phase. During this time, hair is shed from the scalp, often aided by washing and brushing. Losing 50 to 100 hairs per day is considered normal during this phase.

Hair is made out of
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Keratin

Hair is primarily composed of keratin, a fibrous structural protein that also forms the outer layers of skin and nails.

 

Keratin acts as the main structural component of hair strands, consisting of long chains of amino acids linked together by disulfide bonds. This unique structure provides hair with its strength and resilience.

 

To support optimal keratin synthesis, it’s crucial to consume sufficient amounts of protein, along with essential vitamins and minerals, particularly zinc. These nutrients supply the building blocks (amino acids) necessary for producing keratin.

Other Components:

  • Water: Contributes to elasticity and flexibility.

  • Lipids: Found in the outer layer, they help protect hair.

  • Melanin: Responsible for hair color.

  • Minerals: Such as zinc, iron, and copper, which are vital for hair health and growth.

The Link Between Nutritional Deficiencies & Hair Health

Hair health is closely intertwined with nutrition. Various nutrients play vital roles in maintaining the strength, growth, and overall vitality of hair. When the body lacks essential nutrients, it can manifest in several ways, including noticeable changes in hair quality. 

 

Below, we explore three key nutritional deficiencies that can negatively impact hair health:

Protein Deficiency

Iron Deficiency

Zinc Deficiency

Uncover Deficiency Impacts 
& Remedies!

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