telogenvaihe

Telogenvaihe refers to the resting phase of the hair growth cycle. This phase follows the anagen, or growth, phase and the catagen, or transition, phase. During telogen, the hair follicle is dormant, and the hair shaft is no longer actively growing. The hair remains attached to the follicle, but it is a fully mature and fully keratinized strand. This phase typically lasts for about two to four months in human scalp hair.

At the end of the telogen phase, the hair follicle prepares to enter the anagen phase again, initiating the growth of a new hair shaft. The old telogen hair is then shed, either naturally or through external forces like brushing or washing. This shedding process is a normal part of hair renewal. The duration of the telogen phase can vary depending on the location of the hair on the body and individual factors such as genetics, age, and hormonal status.

A significant portion of an individual's hair is usually in the telogen phase at any given time. For scalp hair, this is typically around 10-15%. However, various factors can disrupt the hair cycle, leading to an increase in the number of hairs entering or prolonging the telogen phase. This can result in increased hair shedding, a condition known as telogen effluvium. This condition is often temporary and can be triggered by physiological or psychological stress, hormonal changes, certain medications, or nutritional deficiencies.