Hair cycling—the process of hair growth and shedding—is a natural part of life. But when it’s disrupted by outside factors, it can become a source of confusion and frustration. We will explore the ins and outs of hair cycling to better understand what it is and how disrupted hair cycling may manifest as a sign of an underlying health issue or nutrient deficiency.
Understanding Hair Growth Cycles
Hair growth has a predictable cycle which is composed of three distinct phases. Dermatologists agree that about 90 percent of hair is in the anagen phase of growth at any given time.
- Anagen Phase: The Growth Phase
This phase can last from two to six years and is characterized by growth. During the anagen phase, the active division of cells within the follicle pushes the hair upward toward the surface of the skin. As the cells are pushed up, blood flow increases to the follicle and supports the growth of the new strand of hair.
- Catagen Phase: The Transition Phase
This phase takes place after the anagen phase and lasts two or three weeks. During this time, the hair follicle “rests” and is disconnected from the vascular system. The shaft of the hair continues to thicken, and the base of the follicle begins to shrink.
- Telogen Phase: The Shedding or Resting Phase
This is the final phase of the hair cycle and typically lasts two to four months. During telogen, hair follicles that have been through the anagen and catagen phases are rooted in the scalp but remain inert. As new hair growth pushes older hair up to the surface of the scalp, it’s shed from the scalp, and the cycle begins again.
Causes of Disrupted Hair Cycling
Normal hair cycling is disrupted when any of the three phases are changed or disrupted in some way. While there are many potential causes of disrupted hair cycling, the most common are nutrient deficiencies, psychological stressors, medical conditions, hormone imbalance, etc.
- Nutrient Deficiencies
Nutritional deficiencies are one of the most common and treatable causes of hair loss. A few of the most common nutritional deficiencies that can cause hair loss are:
• Vitamin A deficiency – Too little vitamin A in the diet can lead to an inability to properly metabolize proteins which can result in hair loss.
• Vitamin B deficiency – B vitamins are essential for maintaining healthy skin, scalp, and hair.
• Iron deficiency – Iron-deficiency anemia can cause hair loss and both dry and brittle hair.
• Vitamin D deficiency – Low vitamin D levels have been linked to alopecia (bald patches) and diffuse hair loss.
- Psychological Stressors
Stress and mental health can also play a role in disrupted hair cycling. Hormonal imbalances due to stress can inhibit and distort the hair follicle’s production cycle. This can lead to hair loss as well as slower, weaker regrowth.
- Medical Conditions
Certain medical conditions can cause hair loss. This can be caused by a decline in hormone levels, poor diet or lifestyle, or certain medications. Some of the most common medical conditions are thyroid conditions, autoimmune diseases, and certain cancers.
- Hormone Imbalance
Hormonal imbalances can be a contributing factor in hair cycling. For women, hormonal changes due to menstruation and pregnancy can cause a temporary disruption in hair cycling. In men, hormonal changes due to aging can cause a decline in testosterone levels which can lead to issues with hair cycling.
Treatments for Disrupted Hair Cycling
There are various treatments available for disrupted hair cycling. A doctor or dermatologist can help diagnose the underlying cause and recommend the most appropriate treatment.
- Nutrition
Nutritional deficiencies are the most common cause of disrupted hair cycling. To treat nutrition-related hair loss, a doctor may recommend a change in diet or additional supplementation.
- Treatments to Stimulate Hair Follicles
Treatments like Rogaine, Propecia, and Platelet Rich Plasma can help to stimulate the hair follicles and promote new hair growth. These treatments are usually used to help restore hair in areas where it’s been lost due to disrupted hair cycling.
- Stress Management
Managing psychological stress is important in restoring normal hair cycling. Lifestyle modifications such as reducing stress, exercising regularly, and getting adequate sleep can help to reduce the effects of stress and promote healthy hair cycling.
- Medications
Certain medications, such as corticosteroids and anti-thyroid drugs, can be used to treat conditions like alopecia and thyroid disorders. Your doctor will be able to determine if this is the best course of action for you.
Hair cycling is a normal, largely predictable process that occurs throughout the lifespan. When it’s disrupted, it can lead to hair loss and other issues. Because there are many causes of disrupted hair cycling, it’s important to first find out the underlying cause before trying to treat it. With the right diagnosis and treatment, it’s possible to restore normal hair cycling.