How long does it take for hair to grow back?

Hair growth occurs in four distinct stages, the final one being the shedding of old hair, making room for new hair growth. Each phase has a timeline, and the rate at which hair grows will be determined by the age, nutrition, and overall health of the individual.

Anagen Phase

This is where active hair growth takes place, during which hair follicles produce hair. The duration of this phase varies from person to person and also depends on the area of the body where hair is growing. The eyebrow hair has a shorter anagen phase, and scalp hair has a longer anagen phase lasting anywhere from 2-7 years.

In this phase, the hair follicles push out hair, which continues to grow until they are cut or reaches its lifespan.

Catagen Phase

This phase is the transition phase and starts once the anagen phase ends. In this phase, the hair growth slows or stops as the hair follicles shrink and separate from the bottom of the hair follicle, yet remain till the final days of the hair growth cycle. However, this phase is very short and only lasts 2-3 weeks.

Telogen Phase

This is called the resting phase of the hair growth cycle. At this time, the old hair remains in the follicle while the new hair grows beneath it. So hair doesn't grow, but doesn't fall out either. This phase lasts around 3-4 months.

Exogen Phase/Shedding Phase

This phase can be an extension of the telogen phase and leads to hair shedding from the scalp. In this phase, the new hairs are growing in place of the old hairs. The old hair falls out as a natural process of hair growth.

There are various factors that influence how long it takes for hair to grow or regrow. Some of these include inflammation, hormonal fluctuations, stress, nutritional imbalances, and insufficient sleep.

Genetics and Age Affecting Hair Regrowth

The genetics of an individual can play a significant role in hair regrowth rate and thickness. There is hereditary hair loss as well, which can affect the hair cycle. These are called male pattern baldness or female pattern baldness. As we age, our hair growth tends to slow down. Hence why older individuals experience thinner, slower-growing hair compared to those younger.

Stress Affecting Hair Regrowth

Stress at high levels can disturb the hair growth cycle and ultimately lead to hair loss. Our body releases a hormone called cortisol from the adrenal glands in response to stress. Whilst the body undergoes stress, the cortisol levels rise, interrupting the growth cycle, causing conditions like telogen effluvium in which hair enters the rest phase and sheds, resulting in hair loss. Individuals should try to manage stress via exercise, meditation, sufficient sleep, and seek help when required.

Nutrition Affecting Hair Regrowth

Nutrition deficiency can affect hair regrowth. Ensuring a balanced diet high in vitamins, minerals, and protein is important for hair to grow faster. Nutrients like zinc, biotin, vitamin E, and iron support hair follicles and promote hair growth.

Other Factors Affecting Hair Regrowth

Hormonal changes during pregnancy and menopause can cause temporary hair loss or sometimes permanent hair loss. Furthermore, health conditions such as thyroid diagnosis or alopecia areata, as well as side effects of medications, could be a contributing factor to hair fall.

There is no exact way to calculate the timeline for how long it takes to regrow hair. This is primarily due to the varying growth cycles and influencing factors. On average, our head hair grows at a rate of about half an inch per month. However, this isnt for everyone, and hence why some people can take several months to notice any growth in hair length.

There are many hair loss treatments available, and many remedies to stop hair loss.

How to Promote Healthy Hair Regrowth?

This is a gradual process that requires consistent care and maintenance.

• Maintaining a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals is essential to stimulate hair growth.
• Avoid harsh chemicals in shampoo and conditioner, hard hair treatments, and excessive heat styling are ways to ensure hair starts growing.
• Regular haircuts help prevent split ends, which keeps hair healthy
• A clean scalp with regular scalp massage will support optimal hair growth.

There are many hair loss treatment options, ranging from home remedies, lifestyle changes to pharmaceutical medications. There are certain procedures, like platelet-rich plasma insertion, which are used to treat hair loss and promote regrowth. It is important to consult a health professional regarding any concerns about hair fall or hair growth.