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Multiple Choice

What is the anagen stage of hair?

Hair grows in cycles, and the stage that best fits “new growth” is the active growth phase. During this phase, the hair follicle is actively producing cells in the hair matrix, which divide rapidly and keratinize to form the hair shaft. As these cells multiply, the strand lengthens and extends upward from the follicle, so you’re seeing fresh growth. The duration of this phase varies between individuals and determines how long hair can grow before the cycle moves on to a resting or shedding phase. The other terms describe different parts of the cycle—resting or shedding phases—where growth pauses or the hair is released, rather than being actively produced. Therefore, the new growth stage accurately describes the anagen phase.

Hair grows in cycles, and the stage that best fits “new growth” is the active growth phase. During this phase, the hair follicle is actively producing cells in the hair matrix, which divide rapidly and keratinize to form the hair shaft. As these cells multiply, the strand lengthens and extends upward from the follicle, so you’re seeing fresh growth. The duration of this phase varies between individuals and determines how long hair can grow before the cycle moves on to a resting or shedding phase. The other terms describe different parts of the cycle—resting or shedding phases—where growth pauses or the hair is released, rather than being actively produced. Therefore, the new growth stage accurately describes the anagen phase.