NIC Barber Written (Theory) ExamScientific ConceptsHard
During a client consultation, a barber observes that the client's hair is experiencing significant shedding, and many hairs appear thin and lifeless. Upon closer inspection, the barber notes that the majority of the shed hairs have a club-shaped root. This observation most strongly suggests the client is experiencing which phase of the hair growth cycle?
- ACatagen phase
- BAnagen phase
- CExogen phase
- DTelogen phase
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Telogen phase
The telogen phase is the resting stage of the hair growth cycle, during which the hair follicle is completely at rest and the old hair detaches from the dermal papilla, forming a club-shaped root. Significant shedding of hairs with club roots indicates an increased number of follicles entering or being in this phase.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Catagen is a transitional phase where the follicle shrinks, but shedding with a club root is characteristic of the telogen phase.
- B. Anagen is the active growth phase, where hair is firmly attached and growing, not shedding with a club root.
- C. Exogen is the active shedding part of the telogen phase, but 'telogen phase' is the broader and more direct answer for the state of the follicle and the club root characteristic.
Hair Growth Cycle (Telogen)
The resting phase of hair growth, characterized by the cessation of growth and the formation of a club-shaped root before shedding.
- Lasts typically 2-4 months.
- Hair is fully formed and detached from the dermal papilla.
- Club-shaped root is a key identifier.
- Normal shedding occurs during this phase.
Memory trick: ACT Fast: Anagen, Catagen, Telogen.