Did you know that Hair is one of the most noticeable parts of our appearance? You cut it, style it, and take care of it. But have you ever wondered how your hair grows? Or why do some people have long hair while others struggle to grow their hair beyond a certain length? You probably have.
Hair follows a natural cycle, like plants that grow from seeds and go through different seasons. In this article, you will explore the hair growth cycle, what happens to your hair every 7 years, and answer some common questions about hair growth.
Table of Contents
Stages of hair growth
Your hair doesn’t grow constantly it grows in a cycle. Each hair strand on your head goes through four different stages:
1. Anagen Phase (Growth Phase)
The anagen phase is when hair grows. Depending on genetics, age, and overall health, this phase lasts 2 to 7 years.
- During this time, cells in the hair follicle rapidly divide, pushing the hair strand out of the scalp.
- The longer this phase lasts, the longer your hair can grow.
- About 85-90% of the hairs on your head are in this stage right now.
- Hair grows at an average rate of half an inch (1.25 cm) per month or about 6 inches (15 cm) per year.
For people with long hair, the anagen phase lasts longer, allowing the hair to grow for many years before shedding.
2. Catagen Phase (Transition Phase)
After the growth phase, the hair enters the catagen phase, which lasts about 10 days to 2 weeks.
- During this time, the hair follicle shrinks, and the hair stops growing.
- The blood supply to the hair follicle is cut off, preparing the hair for the next stage.
- Only about 3-5% of the hair on your scalp is in this phase at any given time.
This phase is like a “pause” button before the hair enters the resting phase.
3. Telogen Phase (Resting Phase)
The telogen phase is when hair rests in the follicle without growing. This stage lasts about 3 months.
- The hair is still attached to your scalp but is not actively growing.
- Around 10-15% of your hair is in this phase anytime.
- New hair begins forming under the old hair, preparing for the next phase.
During this phase, the hair doesn’t change much, but it is slowly preparing to shed and make way for new hair growth.
4. Exogen Phase (Shedding Phase)
The exogen phase is the final stage of the hair cycle, during which old hair falls out to make room for new hair.
- This is when you naturally lose about 50-100 hairs daily.
- Brushing, washing, and styling your hair can speed up the shedding process.
- Once the old hair falls out, a new hair strand begins growing, and the cycle starts again.
This natural process ensures that new, healthy hair replaces older hair over time.
What Happens to Your Hair Every 7 Years?
You may have heard people say that your hair changes every 7 years. While this isn’t a strict rule, there is some truth to it.
1. Hair Growth Cycle Resets
Since the anagen phase lasts between 2 to 7 years, many of your hair strands will complete their cycle and fall out around this time. This means that every 7 years, you may notice changes in your hair’s:
- Texture: It might become curlier, straighter, or more wavy.
- Thickness: Some people notice thinner hair as they age.
- Color: More gray or white hairs may start to appear.
2. Aging Affects Hair Growth
As we age, our hair cycle slows down:
- The growth phase (anagen phase) becomes shorter, leading to shorter, finer hair.
- Hair follicles may stop producing hair, leading to thinning or bald spots.
- Hormonal changes (like puberty, pregnancy, or menopause) can change hair texture and thickness.
3. Scalp Health & Hair Care Matters
Over time, scalp health and hair care routines affect how hair grows. If hair is damaged due to heat styling, harsh products, or poor diet, the hair cycle may weaken, leading to
- More hair shedding
- Slower hair growth
- Brittle, weak hair strands
That’s why taking good care of your hair is important for keeping it healthy as you age.
How to Maintain Healthy Hair Growth
If you want your hair to stay strong and healthy through its 7-year cycles, follow these tips:
1. Eat a Healthy Diet
- Protein-rich foods (eggs, fish, nuts) help strengthen hair.
- Iron, zinc, and biotin are essential for healthy hair growth.
- Drink plenty of water to keep your hair hydrated.
2. Avoid Overusing Heat & Chemicals
- Reduce the use of straighteners, curling irons, and blow dryers.
- Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach or strong dyes.
- Always use a heat-protectant spray before styling.
3. Massage Your Scalp
- Scalp massages increase blood circulation, which helps hair grow.
- Use natural oils like coconut or castor oil for added nourishment.
4. Use Mild Shampoos & Conditioners
- Wash hair with gentle, sulfate-free shampoos.
- Avoid overwashing 2-3 times a week is enough for most people.
5. Manage Stress is also an Important Factor
- Stress can cause hair loss (called telogen effluvium).
- Practice relaxation techniques like meditation or exercise.
Conclusion
Your hair grows in cycles, and it undergoes natural changes every seven years. As we age, the growth cycle may slow down, causing changes in hair length, texture, and thickness. However, with proper care, you can keep your hair strong and healthy for many years.
By eating well, avoiding harsh chemicals, and taking care of your scalp, you can ensure that your hair stays beautiful and healthy no matter how many seven-year cycles it experiences!
FAQ
- On average, hair grows about 6 inches per year (or half an inch per month).
If hair falls out, it can take several months to a year for it to grow back fully.
- The length of your hair depends on the anagen phase (growth phase).
- If someone’s anagen phase lasts 7 years, their hair can grow much longer than someone whose phase lasts only 2-3 years.
- Genetics plays a big role in hair length and thickness.
Written By
Medical Officer & Hair Transplant Surgeon
Dr. Nazmin Sultana Nipa is a distinguished hair transplant doctor in Bangladesh, known for her advanced skills in hair restoration. As a Medical Officer and Hair Transplant Surgeon, Dr. Nipa combines her extensive experience in the field with a focus on transparency and patient-centered care.
Disclaimer
We’ve made all possible efforts to ensure that the information provided here is accurate, up-to-date and complete, however, it should not be treated as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. See Detailed Disclaimers Here.
