The telogen phase, also known as the resting phase, is the final part of the hair growth cycle. During this phase, hair is inactive and eventually falls out to make way for new hair. The duration of the telogen phase usually varies between two and four months, but can also be longer.
During the telogen phase, the hair is no longer in the active growth phase as it was in the Anagen phase. Instead, the hair rests in the hair root, while the follicle is prepared for a new anagen phase. During this resting phase the hair remains in Hair follicles anchored, but is no longer supplied with nutrients.
About 10-15% of all hair is in the telogen phase at any given time. This means that a small part of the hair goes through inactive resting phases while the rest is in the anagen or Catagen phase located.
During the telogen phase, hair may fall out because it is no longer firmly anchored in the scalp. However, this hair loss is usually not severe and does not result in visible bald patches.
After the telogen phase, the hair growth cycle begins again with the reactivation of the hair follicle cells in the anagen phase. The expelled hair is replaced by a new hair that grows from the follicle.
In summary, the telogen phase is the resting phase of the hair growth cycle in which hair is not actively growing and eventually falls out. It usually lasts a few months and represents the completion of the cycle before new hair growth begins. During this phase, the hair is not firmly anchored in the scalp and may fall out.