The catagen stage is the second of three main stages of hair growth. It is a short transition phase that lasts for about 2 weeks. During the catagen stage, the hair follicle shrinks and the hair shaft stops growing. The hair also separates from the bottom of the hair follicle, yet remains in place during its final days of growing. Only about 5 percent of the hairs on your head are in the catagen phase at any given time.
The catagen stage is followed by the telogen stage, which is the resting stage of hair growth. During the telogen stage, the hair remains attached to the hair follicle but does not grow. The telogen stage can last for anywhere from 2 to 4 months.
After the telogen stage, the hair follicle enters the anagen stage, which is the growth stage. The anagen stage is the longest stage of hair growth and can last for anywhere from 2 to 6 years.
- Hair growth cycle overview: The hair growth cycle consists of three main stages: anagen (active growth phase), catagen (transition phase), and telogen (resting phase). Each hair follicle goes through these stages independently, ensuring a continuous process of shedding and regrowth.
- Catagen stage characteristics: The catagen stage is a transitional phase that lasts for approximately two to three weeks. During this stage, the hair shaft grows upward and detaches itself from the bulb (the base of the hair follicle). This detachment causes the hair follicle to shrink and the blood supply to be cut off, eventually leading to the end of active hair growth.
- Catagen stage proportion: Only a small percentage of hair follicles (approximately 1-3%) are in the catagen stage at any given time. This ensures that the overall hair density remains relatively constant, even as individual hairs progress through the different stages of the growth cycle.
- Hair and scalp treatments: Understanding the catagen stage can help estheticians and beauty professionals provide targeted treatments for clients experiencing hair and scalp issues. For instance, clients with hair loss concerns may benefit from treatments that promote a healthy anagen phase, while clients with hair breakage or damage may require treatments that nourish and strengthen the hair shaft.
- Client education: Educate clients about the hair growth cycle and the importance of each stage, including the catagen phase. Explain how factors such as diet, stress, hormonal imbalances, and scalp health can impact the hair growth cycle and overall hair health.
- Product recommendations: Suggest products that support a healthy hair growth cycle, such as shampoos and conditioners that contain nourishing ingredients, scalp treatments that promote blood circulation, and supplements that provide essential nutrients for hair health. Always consider the client’s specific hair type, concerns, and lifestyle when making product recommendations.
Skincare professionals and estheticians do not primarily focus on hair care or recommending hair products; however, possessing knowledge about hair can significantly enhance the expertise of estheticians and skincare specialists.