The catagen phase, also known as the transition phase, is the second part of the hair growth cycle and follows directly after the Anagen phaseDuring this phase, the hair stops growing and prepares for the next cycle. The catagen phase typically lasts only two to three weeks.
During the catagen phase, the hair root The hair follicle cells collapse and are cut off from the blood supply. This causes the hair follicle cells to become inactive and stop producing new hair. At the same time, fibrous tissue forms at the junction between the hair root and the scalp hair shaft Structural changes that weaken the hair.
Approximately 3% of all hairs are in the catagen phase at any given time. This means that a small portion of the hairs are in a transitional state, while the rest are in the anagen or growth phase Telogen phase is.
Although hair does not actively grow during the catagen phase, it remains anchored in the scalp. During this time, hair is particularly susceptible to hair loss because it is no longer supplied with nutrients and is weakened.
After the catagen phase, the hair enters the telogen phase, the resting phase of the hair cycle. In this stage, the hair is released and eventually falls out to make room for a new hair.
In summary, the catagen phase is the transition phase of the hair growth cycle, during which the hair stops growing and prepares for the next cycle. This phase typically lasts only a few weeks and is characterized by inactivity of the hair follicle cells. During this time, the hair is weakened and prone to hair loss.
