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How long is the body hair growth cycle?

Published in Hair Growth Cycle 2 mins read

The body hair growth cycle varies, but the active growth phase (anagen) typically lasts about 4 weeks, though it can range from 6 to 8 weeks depending on the body area. Following this, the hair enters a resting phase (telogen) that lasts approximately 9 times as long as the anagen phase.

Here's a breakdown of the hair growth cycle:

  • Anagen (Growth Phase): This is the active phase where hair grows. For body hair, this phase generally lasts between 4 and 8 weeks. Approximately 10% of body hair is in this phase at any given time.

  • Telogen (Resting Phase): This is the dormant phase where the hair follicle is inactive. It usually lasts around 9 times longer than the anagen phase. About 90% of body hair is in the telogen phase.

Therefore, a full body hair growth cycle could be roughly estimated between 40 weeks (if anagen is 4 weeks, then 9x4=36 weeks telogen + 4 weeks anagen) to 80 weeks (if anagen is 8 weeks, then 9x8=72 weeks telogen + 8 weeks anagen) for the same hair to complete a cycle and fall out. Note that these times are approximate and variations exist.

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