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The anagen phase is the active growth stage of the hair cycle in which the hair actively grows. This is the longest phase of the hair cycle, which can last between two and seven years, depending on the person and body region. During the anagen phase, the hair cells in the hair root are divided rapidly, which leads to a continuous lengthening of the hair shaft. This stage determines the maximum length a hair can reach, which varies greatly from person to person and is influenced by genetic factors.
In the anagen phase, the hair is firmly anchored in the scalp and the hair follicles are deeply embedded in the dermis, supplied by blood vessels that provide the necessary nutrients for hair growth. The effectiveness of hair removal methods such as laser hair removal depends on the anagen phase, as the hair responds best to treatment at this stage, particularly due to the concentration of melanin, which absorbs the light. Understanding the anagen phase is crucial for the development of hair care and treatment strategies, as it is during this stage that hair gains its vitality and length.
Related terms: exogenous phase / catagen phase / kenogen phase / telogen phase / growth phases
