Revolutionizing
Hair Restoration

REACTIVATING DORMANT FOLLICLES 

There are various factors that can contribute to hair follicles becoming dormant. These can include hormonal imbalances, stress, medications, illness, nutrition deficiencies, and aging. Dormant Hair Follicles are still alive and are capable of being reactivated to produce hair, however they require certain signals to reactivate. Once the dormant follicles receive proper nourishment and stimulation including peptides, growth factors, and nutrients they can be reactivated. It is critical to address the root cause of the initial hair loss to help extend the anagen phase and keep the follicle continually active through the growth cycles. 

THE STAGES OF HAIR GROWTH

Growth factors, peptides, and core nutrients help to promote and maintain healthy hair follicles which activates the anagen phase of hair growth. While in the anagen phase, there are a few key factors that influence the growth cycle and contribute to the rate and quality of hair growth. The hair growth cycle consists of three main phases: Anagen, Catagen, and Telogen, plus the Exogen phase of shedding. These phases determine the growth, transition, and resting periods of individual hair follicles. 

Understanding the hair growth cycle, and the factors that contribute to disrupting this cycle, are critical to treating hair loss. Each follicle has a root, from where your hair begins to grow. Hair strands are anchored to the Dermal Palilla, in the base of the hair shaft, which is connected to the blood supply. The blood vessels in the scalp supply nutrients to the root of the follicle which are essential to the production of hair strands. These nutrients continue to feed the blood supply, contributing to hair growth. Meanwhile, oil glands inside the follicle provide lubrication, shine, and hair softness.

The hair growth in the follicle occurs in a cyclical process. The cycle can last for 3-10 years depending on various factors, with an average length of 7 years. 

• Anagen Phase (Growth Phase): During this phase, the hair follicle is actively growing. Cells in the hair bulb divide rapidly, leading to the production of new hair cells. Hair grows longer during this phase, which can last anywhere from 3-10 years.
• Catagen Phase (Transition Phase): The catagen phase is a brief transitional period that lasts for about two to four weeks. During this time, the hair follicle shrinks and detaches from the blood supply. This phase marks the end of active hair growth. While the hair shaft is no longer lengthening, it remains in place as the follicle prepares for the next phase.
• Telogen Phase (Resting Phase): The telogen phase is a resting period that typically lasts for three to five months. During this phase, the old hair remains in the follicle while new hair begins to grow at the base of the follicle. Eventually, the new hair slowly pushes out the old hair and the cycle begins anew. Imbalances in the body including hormones, stress, and nutrient deficiencies can cause the hair to enter the Telogen phase prematurely.
• Exogen Phase (Shedding): The hair detaches from the follicle. The scalp can shed approximately 50-100 strands per day. 

The Anagen Phase can be affected by a numerous factors. Maintaining good overall health can support healthy hair follicles. Balancing hormones, especially those related to growth like androgens and estrogens, can prevent premature transitioning to the resting phase (telogen). Adequate nutrition, as well as the body’s ability to metabolize it, particularly vitamins such as Biotin, Vitamin D, and Iron, and minerals, provides the building blocks necessary for robust hair growth. Managing stress effectively can prevent the release of stress hormones that can disrupt the hair growth cycle. Additionally, reducing inflammation through a healthy lifestyle and proper scalp care can contribute to good blood circulation and maintaining the optimal conditions for hair follicles to remain in the anagen phase. Certain medications and underlying medical conditions such as thyroid disorders, chemotherapy, chronic illness, and alopecia can disrupt the natural hair growth cycle.

Overall, working with your health care provider on a holistic approach that encompasses hormonal balance, proper nutrition, stress management, and inflammation reduction plays a pivotal role in maintaining a healthy follicle, promoting prolonged anagen phase, and healthy hair growth.