Hair growth phases: How to specifically strengthen each phase and promote healthy hair

Have you ever wondered why you lose hair every day without going bald? Or why some strands seem to grow like crazy while others just stagnate? The answer lies in a fascinating cycle – the growth phases of your hair. In this article, we'll delve into this life cycle and explain how each phase affects your hair density, strength, and health. You'll learn why targeted care is crucial, especially during the critical growth phases, and how you can get the most out of your hair with high-quality, natural products.

Mechanisms of hair growth: From anagen to exogenous

The life cycle of a hair consists of four clearly defined phases that lay the foundation for healthy, strong hair. These phases do not occur synchronously – while approximately 85-90% of your hair is in the growth phase, the rest goes through the other phases. This asynchronous cycle ensures that you never lose all your hair at the same time.

Anagen (growth phase)

The anagen phase is the longest and most important phase in the hair growth cycle. It lasts between 2 and 7 years and largely determines how long and strong your hair can become. During this phase:

• The cells in the hair root divide every 23-72 hours – one of the fastest cell division rates in the body.

• Hair grows an average of 1-1.5 cm per month.

• Melanin production, which is responsible for natural hair color, is activated.

• The hair structure is formed with medulla (medullary nail), cortex (cortex) and cuticle (scaly layer)

Extending this phase through targeted stimulation with active ingredients such as caffeine and tetrapeptides can significantly improve hair density. Caffeine penetrates to the hair root and blocks the growth-inhibiting DHT (dihydrotestosterone) there, while peptides stimulate cell renewal.

Catagen (transition phase)

This short phase lasts only about 2-3 weeks and marks the transition from active growth to the resting phase. During this time:

• Stops cell division in the hair matrix

• The hair follicle shrinks to about 1/6 of its original size.

• Does the hair root become detached from its blood supply?

• Does a club-like structure form at the end of the hair shaft (club hair)?

During this sensitive transition phase, the scalp is particularly delicate. Red clover extract, with its isoflavones, and allantoin, with its soothing properties, can prevent irritation and harmonize the transition.

Telogen (resting phase)

The telogen phase lasts approximately 3-4 months and is a time of regeneration for the hair follicle. During this phase:

• The hair follicle rests and gathers strength for the next growth cycle.

• The hair remains anchored in the follicle but no longer grows.

• Does the formation of a new hair follicle already begin under the resting hair?

• Approximately 10-15% of your head hair goes through this phase at any one time.

An optimal supply of nutrients with B vitamins such as biotin and niacinamide supports the preparation for the next growth cycle and improves the quality of the regrowing hair.

Exogenous (failure phase)

The often overlooked fourth phase is the exogen phase, in which the old hair falls out. This process:

• It is triggered by natural enzymatic processes and mechanical stress.

• This leads to the loss of 50-100 hairs daily as a normal part of the hair cycle.

• Make room for the new hair already formed in the telogen phase.

• Can be optimally supported by a healthy scalp

Plant extracts such as nettle and ginseng promote blood circulation in the scalp, thus creating ideal conditions for the start of the new hair cycle.

Consequences of inadequate care during growth phases

Neglected hair care can severely disrupt the natural hair cycle and lead to long-term problems:

Shortened growth phase

If the anagen phase ends prematurely, this has far-reaching consequences:

• The maximum hair length is reduced because the hair has less time to grow.

• Hair density decreases because more hairs enter the shedding phase at the same time.

• The hair structure becomes weakened because there is less time for complete keratinization.

• Oxidative stress and nutrient deficiencies are common triggers of this shortening.

Factors such as chronic stress, hormonal fluctuations, and environmental pollution can shorten the growth phase. Targeted supplementation with antioxidants and micronutrients can counteract this process.

Damaged hair structure

A lack of moisture and proteins leads to structural damage:

• The cuticle (outer scaly layer) becomes porous and can no longer fulfill its protective function.

• Moisture can escape from the inside of the hair, leading to dryness and brittleness.

• UV radiation and environmental pollutants can penetrate deeper into the hair structure.

• Elasticity decreases, leading to increased hair breakage.

A balanced hair care routine with moisturizing and protein-rich ingredients strengthens the hair structure and makes it more resistant to external influences.

Unhealthy scalp

The scalp is the foundation for healthy hair growth. Problems here directly affect the hair growth cycle:

• Inflammation and irritation impair the nutrient supply to the hair follicles.

• Excessive sebum production can clog follicles and inhibit growth.

• Microcirculatory disorders reduce the supply of oxygen and nutrients.

• Bacterial imbalances can lead to dandruff and itching.

Regular, gentle cleansing and targeted care with anti-inflammatory and balancing active ingredients keep the scalp healthy and thus support the natural hair cycle.

Measures & product solutions for optimizing hair growth

Effective hair care takes into account the natural hair cycle and specifically supports each phase:

Targeted stimulation of the hair follicles

Tru Cosmetics' Hair Growth Serum was specially developed to extend and optimize the anagen phase:

• Caffeine penetrates deep into the scalp and blocks growth-inhibiting DHT receptors.

• Acetyl Tetrapeptide-3 stimulates the extracellular matrix and improves hair anchorage.

• The light, non-greasy formula absorbs quickly and leaves no heavy feeling.

• The precise pipette allows for targeted application directly on the scalp.

Regular use of the serum can prolong the growth phase, resulting in noticeably fuller and stronger hair – entirely without hormonal intervention.

nutrient supply to the scalp

Optimal nutrient supply is crucial for healthy hair growth:

• Biotin (Vitamin B7) is an essential building block for keratin production and strengthens the hair structure.

• Zinc PCA regulates sebum production and has antimicrobial properties.

• Panthenol (provitamin B5) penetrates deep into the hair and improves moisture retention.

• Hyaluronic acid binds moisture in the scalp and ensures a balanced microclimate.

These nutrients support the formation of keratin – the main protein of the hair – thus ensuring an improved hair structure from root to tip.

Soothing and protecting the scalp

A healthy scalp is the foundation for healthy hair growth:

• Allantoin soothes irritated scalp and promotes cell renewal.

• Nettle extract has anti-inflammatory properties and improves microcirculation.

• Green tea extract provides potent antioxidants that protect against free radicals.

• Larch wood extract strengthens the skin barrier and protects against environmental stressors.

This combination of soothing and protective active ingredients creates an optimal environment for the hair follicles and thus supports a healthy hair cycle.

Supplementary nutrient supply from within

Tru Cosmetics' Hair Boost Caps complement external care with targeted nutrient supply from within:

• MSM (methylsulfonylmethane) provides organic sulfur – an essential element for strong hair structure.

• High-dose biotin supports the metabolism of hair follicles.

• L-cysteine ​​is a sulfur-containing amino acid that is essential for keratin formation.

• B vitamins support the energy metabolism of rapidly dividing follicle cells.

This holistic care, both external and internal, is the key to permanently healthy hair, as it optimally supports all aspects of the hair cycle.

Future-proof, hormone-free formulations

In a time when more and more consumers are paying attention to the ingredients in their skincare products, Tru Cosmetics focuses on future-proof, hormone-free formulations:

• Avoidance of hormone-like substances that can disrupt the natural balance

• Focus on plant-based active ingredients with scientifically proven efficacy

• Innovative peptide technology as a safe alternative to hormonal interventions

• Transparent ingredient lists without hidden problematic substances

The Hair Growth Serum combines natural plant extracts, peptides, and vitamins to gently support hair follicles – without the potential risks of hormonal interventions. This future-proof formula complies with current scientific knowledge and regulatory developments in the EU.

Conclusion: Understanding and optimally supporting the growth phases of your hair

Now you have it in black and white: Your hair goes through complex growth cycles that are crucial for its health and volume. By optimally supporting your hair in every phase – from the active growth phase to natural shedding – you create the best conditions for strong and vibrant hair.

Targeted nutrient supply, soothing and protective scalp care, and the avoidance of hormone-containing products lead to healthier results in the long run. With the high-quality, German-made products from Tru Cosmetics, precisely tailored to these needs, you give your hair exactly what it requires – natural care that impresses and delivers results.

Try it out and discover how our Hair Growth Serum and Hair Boost Caps can revolutionize your daily beauty ritual. Treat your hair to what it truly deserves – natural strength from root to tip. Visit our online shop and start your hair wellness revolution today.