NIC Barber Written (Theory) ExamScientific ConceptsMedium
A client is concerned about excessive hair shedding and asks their barber about the different phases of hair growth. Which phase is characterized by the hair follicle shrinking and detaching from the dermal papilla, signaling the end of active growth?
- AAnagen
- BTelogen
- CCatagen
- DExogen
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Catagen
The catagen phase is a transitional stage where hair growth stops, the outer root sheath shrinks, and the hair detaches from the dermal papilla. This prepares the hair for the resting phase.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Anagen is the active growth phase, where hair is produced.
- B. Telogen is the resting phase, after catagen, where the hair may shed.
- D. Exogen is the shedding phase, sometimes considered part of telogen, where old hair is released.
Catagen Phase
The transitional phase of hair growth, lasting about 2-3 weeks, during which hair growth stops, the outer root sheath shrinks, and the hair detaches from the dermal papilla.
- Follows anagen, precedes telogen.
- Hair growth ceases.
- Follicle begins to shrink.
Memory trick: An Active Cat is Transitioning to Sleep.