Hair is a defining feature of our appearance, playing a significant role in our self-image and confidence.

While it’s natural to shed some hair daily, noticeable thinning or the onset of baldness can cause alarm. At Charles Medical Group, understanding the hair loss cycle is crucial for diagnosing and treating various forms of hair loss. Let’s delve into the intricacies of the hair growth cycle and explore the restoration possibilities available.

The Hair Growth Cycle Explained

The hair growth cycle consists of three distinct phases: anagen, catagen, and telogen. Each phase has its characteristics and duration.

  • Anagen Phase (Growth Phase):
    The anagen phase is the period of active hair growth. During this time, cells in the root of the hair divide rapidly, adding to the hair shaft. This growth phase can last anywhere from two to six years, and the length of the anagen phase determines the maximum length of your hair.
  • Catagen Phase (Transitional Phase):
    Following the anagen phase, hair enters the catagen phase. This transitional period lasts about two to three weeks. During the catagen phase, growth stops, and the outer root sheath shrinks and attaches to the root of the hair, forming what is known as a club hair.
  • Telogen Phase (Resting Phase):
    Finally, hair moves into the telogen phase, a resting period that lasts approximately three months. At the end of this phase, the hair is shed, and new hair begins to grow from the follicle, starting the cycle anew.

Disruptions in the Hair Loss Cycle

Disruptions in the natural hair growth cycle can lead to various conditions:

  • Telogen Effluvium:
    This condition occurs when a large number of hairs enter the telogen phase simultaneously, leading to widespread thinning. It is often triggered by significant stressors to the body such as illness, extreme stress, or hormonal changes.
  • Androgenetic Alopecia (Genetic Hair Loss):
    This common form of hair loss is characterized by a progressive thinning of the hair, affecting both men and women. It is caused by a combination of genetic and hormonal factors, leading to a shortened anagen phase and the miniaturization of hair follicles.

Hair Restoration Techniques at Charles Medical Group

At Charles Medical Group, led by Dr. Glenn M. Charles, we use our in-depth knowledge of the hair loss cycle to tailor hair restoration treatments to each patient’s needs. Two key techniques in managing hair loss are Follicular Unit Excision (FUE) and Follicular Unit Grafting (FUT):

  • FUE Hair Transplant:
    FUE involves the extraction of individual hair follicles from the donor area and their transplantation to the thinning or balding regions. This minimally invasive technique leaves no linear scar and is preferred for its natural-looking results and minimal downtime.
  • FUT Hair Grafting:
    FUT, also known as the strip method, involves removing a strip of scalp from the donor area and dissecting it into individual grafts. This method allows for the transplantation of a large number of follicles in one session.

State-of-the-Art Treatments and Non-Surgical Options

To address more advanced hair loss conditions, we offer state-of-the-art treatments like the ARTAS® Robotic Assisted FUE, which enhances the precision and efficiency of the FUE procedure. We also understand that surgery isn’t the right option for everyone, which is why we provide non-surgical alternatives such as the LaserCap®. This FDA-cleared device uses low-level laser therapy to stimulate hair follicles and promote growth during the anagen phase.

Comprehensive Approach to Hair Restoration

At Charles Medical Group, we take a comprehensive approach to hair restoration. By understanding the hair loss cycle and the specific needs of each patient, we can offer a range of solutions, from advanced surgical techniques to effective non-surgical treatments. Our goal is to help you navigate the hair loss cycle and achieve the best possible results for a fuller, natural-looking head of hair.

If you’re experiencing hair loss and looking for options, contact us to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help you regain not just your hair, but also your confidence.