Utah Master Esthetician Practice Exam

What is considered the active phase of hair growth?

1. Telogen

2. Catagen

3. Anagen

4. Exogen

The correct answer is: Anagen

The active phase of hair growth is referred to as the Anagen phase. During this stage, the hair follicles are fully engaged in producing new hair cells, which leads to hair elongation. This phase can last for several years, typically ranging from 2 to 6 years, but it can vary based on individual factors like genetics and health. The duration of this phase significantly influences the length of the hair since the longer the anagen phase, the longer the hair can grow. In contrast, the Telogen phase is a resting period when the hair is not actively growing, the Catagen phase represents a transitional stage where hair growth slows and the hair follicle begins to shrink, and the Exogen phase involves the shedding of the hair that has completed its cycle. Understanding these phases is essential in esthetics as it impacts hair growth treatments, hair removal methods, and overall hair health management.