What is the hair cycle?
The hair cycle refers to the continuous process of hair growth, regression, rest, and shedding through the anagen, catagen, telogen, and exogen phases.
Disruptions in this natural cycle contribute to hair loss conditions. Therapies like Photobiomodulation (PBMT) help normalize cycle timing, extending growth phases and shortening rest periods.
Supporting a balanced hair cycle is a core objective of red light therapy for hair restoration, improving follicle longevity and scalp coverage over time.
Related terms
Catagen phase
Biological Concepts
The catagen phase is a short transitional period in the hair growth cycle when active growth stops and the hair follicle prepares to shed.
Dihydrotestosterone (DHT)
Biological Concepts
Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is a potent androgen hormone linked to hair follicle miniaturization and androgenetic alopecia (AGA).
Hair follicle miniaturization
Biological Concepts
Hair follicle miniaturization is the progressive shrinking of hair follicles, resulting in thinner, shorter, and less pigmented hairs.
Anagen phase
Biological Concepts
The anagen phase is the active growth stage of the hair cycle during which hair follicles produce new hair.