Which phase is known as the growth phase of hair?

The correct answer is the anagen phase, which is recognized as the growth phase of hair. During this phase, hair follicles are actively producing new cells, leading to the lengthening of the hair strand. It is the longest phase in the hair growth cycle, typically lasting several years, depending on various factors such as genetics and health.

In this phase, the hair is firmly anchored in the follicle, and the cells in the hair bulb multiply rapidly. This continuous division results in the production of the keratinized structure that we see as hair. The hair can grow about half an inch per month during the anagen phase, which is essential for overall hair health and appearance.

Understanding the distinctions among the different phases of hair growth is crucial, as each phase serves a unique purpose in the overall cycle of hair. The telogen phase, for example, is the resting stage that occurs after hair has completed its growth, while the catagen phase is a transitional phase where hair growth slows down and the hair follicle begins to shrink. The resting phase is essentially synonymous with the telogen phase, where the hair is not actively growing but is waiting to shed. These phases help to inform proper hair care practices and expectations for hair growth over time.