NIC Barber Written (Theory) ExamScientific ConceptsMedium
A barber is performing a consultation for a client who is concerned about thinning hair. The barber notices that the client's hair appears to be in an extended resting phase, with many hairs easily shedding when gently pulled. Which phase of the hair growth cycle is MOST likely prolonged in this client?
- ATelogen
- BExogen
- CAnagen
- DCatagen
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Telogen
The telogen phase is the resting phase of the hair cycle, where hair follicles are inactive and hair shedding occurs. A prolonged telogen phase, or a higher proportion of hairs in this phase, would lead to increased shedding and perceived thinning.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Exogen is the phase where the old hair sheds from the follicle, often considered part of the telogen phase, but telogen itself describes the resting state leading to shedding.
- C. Anagen is the active growth phase; a prolonged anagen phase would mean more growth, not thinning.
- D. Catagen is the transitional phase, a short period where growth stops, but not the primary phase for shedding and thinning concerns.
Telogen Phase
The resting phase of the hair growth cycle, during which hair shedding occurs.
- Lasts approximately 2-4 months.
- About 10-15% of scalp hairs are in this phase at any given time.
- Increased duration or proportion of hairs in telogen can lead to hair loss/thinning.
Memory trick: Anagen active, Catagen calm, Telogen tired, then gone.