Understanding the hair growth cycle, the role of hair follicles and the various stages of hair growth, here’s a breakdown of the process:
Hair Follicles: Hair grows from tiny, saclike structures in the skin called hair follicles. These follicles are located in the outer layer of skin, known as the epidermis, and extend into the deeper layer, the dermis. Each hair follicle is connected to blood vessels that supply nutrients and oxygen to the growing hair.
Hair Growth Cycle: The hair growth cycle consists of three main phases:
a. Anagen Phase (Growing Phase): During this phase, the hair actively grows. Cells in the hair bulb divide rapidly, pushing older cells upward, forming the hair shaft that we see above the skin’s surface. This phase can last up to 7 years. And the length of this phase determines the length of the hair.
b. Catagen Phase (Changing Phase): In this short phase lasting about 2 to 3 weeks, the hair follicle shrinks and detaches from the blood supply. The hair shaft is pushed upward, and growth stops. This marks the end of active growth.
c. Telogen Phase (Resting Phase): During this phase, lasting around 2 to 3 months, the hair follicle remains inactive. The old hair is held in the follicle while a new hair begins to form beneath it.
3. Shedding and Regrowth: After the telogen phase, the hair enters the exogen phase, during which the old hair is shed, and a new hair begins to grow. Shedding old hair is a normal part of the hair growth cycle. Once the shedding is complete, the anagen phase begins again with the growth of a new hair.
Factors Affecting Hair Growth: Several factors influence the rate and quality of hair growth:
- Genetics: Your genetics play a significant role in determining how fast your hair grows, its thickness and its texture.
- Age: Hair growth tends to slow down with age, and the hair may become thinner
- Hormones: Hormonal changes, such as those during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause, can affect the hair growth cycle
- Nutrition: A balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and proteins is essential for healthy hair growth
- Health: Certain medical conditions and medications can influence hair growth. Poor health or chronic stress can also impact the hair growth cycle.
- Laser Hair Removal: Laser hair removal can increase unwanted hair growth. After laser treatment, some individuals experience dark hair growth in new areas particularly for individuals with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)
However, what if I don’t want hair?
For a permanent solution to unwanted hair, Electrolysis is the only form of hair removal medically approved by the FDA (Federal drug association) guaranteed to deliver the expected outcome. Every client wished they had known about electrolysis earlier after experiencing the results of multi probe electrolysis. If you want to rid yourself of those unwanted hairs, the sooner you start the sooner you will begin seeing results. There will be no need to wax, tweeze, or shave ever again.
Should you want to know more, pop in to our clinic or give us a shout.
