Meaning ❉ Hair growth phases describe the cyclical life of each hair strand, a natural progression through active growth, transition, and resting periods. For textured hair, particularly coils and curls often seen in Black and mixed-race hair, understanding these phases is fundamental to effective care. The longest phase, anagen, determines the hair’s ultimate length, making scalp health and gentle handling during this period vital for retaining length. Subsequently, catagen marks a brief transition as the hair detaches from its dermal papilla. The telogen phase is a resting period before new hair begins to push out the old. Finally, exogen is the natural shedding of hair, which for highly textured strands, can appear more significant due to shed hairs clinging to coils. Knowing these biological rhythms allows for systematized routines, moving beyond guesswork to an informed approach where care practices like consistent moisture and low-manipulation styling align with the hair’s inherent cycles. This knowledge supports practical application, helping individuals manage expectations regarding shedding and length, thereby allowing for a grounded, gentle relationship with their unique hair. The ancestral wisdom of caring for one’s crown can be deepened by this scientific understanding, blending tradition with modern biological insight.
