What happens to hair during the catagen phase?

During the catagen phase, hair enters a resting phase characterized by the transition from active growth to eventual shedding. This phase is important in the hair growth cycle as it signifies that the follicle is no longer producing new hair growth. Instead, the hair strands that have reached their maximum length begin to prepare for the shedding process.

In this phase, which lasts for several weeks, the hair follicle shrinks, and the lower part of the hair strand detaches from its blood supply, effectively signaling the end of its growth. This is distinct from other phases of hair growth, such as the anagen phase, where rapid hair growth occurs, or the telogen phase, when hair is shed. Understanding these phases is essential for comprehending hair health and growth patterns in cosmetology.