Which characteristics define the anagen phase?

The anagen phase is defined primarily by active hair growth, which is the key characteristic of this stage in the hair growth cycle. During the anagen phase, which is also known as the growth phase, hair follicles are actively producing hair, leading to lengthening of the hair strand. This phase can last several years, depending on various factors including genetics and health.

In this phase, the hair is firmly anchored in the follicle due to the proliferation of cells at the base of the follicle, which helps to create new hair. The duration and success of this growth phase significantly influence the overall hair length, making it an essential aspect of the hair cycle for understanding hair growth patterns in clients.

Other phases of hair growth, such as catagen (the transitional phase) and telogen (the resting phase), focus on different features, such as hair being in a quiescent state or shedding. However, the defining aspect of the anagen phase is that it is the period of active growth.