Anagen (the growth phase)
– is the period of active growth. During this stage two processes are
taking place: cells in the root of the hair divide quickly to form a new
hair and then the the hair follicles start producing melanin (the
pigmented proteins) which moves to the hair shaft to give it the dark
colour. How long this part of the cycle lasts is determined genetically
and therefore varies from person to person.

Catagen (the transition phase)
– after the Anagen phase comes the short transitional phase called
Catagen. Once the hair reaches its predetermined length, they stop
growing and the hair follicle begins to shrink which moves the hair to
the transition phase. This phase will last around 2 – 3 weeks and no
pigment is made during this time or produces any hair.

Telogen (the resting phase)
– the hair will rest in the hair follicle for around 3 – 4 months and during
this time a new hair begins to grow. As the hair grows, the old hair will
naturally shed or may be pulled out. Shedding is a normal process of the
replacement of the old hair with a new. This new hair that has grown
will emerge from the same opening as the previous one and the cycle
returns back to the Anagen phase.