anagen

noun

an·​a·​gen ˈa-nə-ˌjen 

: the active phase of the hair growth cycle that precedes catagen and telogen, that is marked by rapid division and differentiation of cells in the lower portion of the hair follicle and by lengthening of the hair shaft, and that typically lasts between two to six years

Note: At any given time, approximately 80% to 90% of hair follicles are in anagen.

Examples of anagen in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The average hair growth cycle occurs in three phases: the growing phase (anagen) which can last up to six years until the regressing phase occurs (catagen), before the hair sheds in the (telogen) resting phase. —India Espy-Jones, Essence, 1 Apr. 2024

Scalp health has a major impact on hair growth, and improving blood circulation is important for the anagen phase of the hair growth cycle. —Macaela MacKenzie, Glamour, 27 Feb. 2024

Researchers concluded that rice bran mineral extract may lengthen the time the hair follicle is in the anagen phase, which is when follicle growth occurs. —Kaitlin Sullivan, Health, 1 Jan. 2024

The anagen phase is not only the most active but also the longest of the stages, lasting anywhere between three to seven years depending on individual factors such as ethnicity, overall health and medication. —Georgia Day, Vogue, 11 Sep. 2023

After the anagen growth phase, the lashes enter a 15-day catagen phase, in which the eyelashes stop growing before entering the third and final telogen (or resting) phase. —Lindsay Modglin, Health, 22 June 2023

Shave approximately three days before treatment to ensure the anagen-phase hairs are visible. —Heather L. Brannon, Md, Verywell Health, 22 Mar. 2023

Electrolysis works best when hair follicles are in the anagen (growth) phase. —Heather L. Brannon, Md, Verywell Health, 22 Mar. 2023

As with electrolysis, laser hair removal is also more effective at removing hairs that are in the anagen phase.11 To relieve discomfort after treatment, apply a cool compress. —Heather L. Brannon, Md, Verywell Health, 22 Mar. 2023

Word History

Etymology

ana- + -gen

First Known Use

1926, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

anagen

noun

an·​a·​gen ˈan-ə-ˌjen 

: the active phase of the hair growth cycle that precedes catagen and telogen, that is marked by rapid division and differentiation of cells in the lower portion of the hair follicle and by lengthening of the hair shaft, and that typically lasts between two to six years

Note: At any given time, approximately 80% to 90% of hair follicles are in anagen.

The initial step, anagen, provides the active growth of the hair fiber, during which cells at the base of the follicle rapidly divide.

—Damaris Christensen