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 follicle first actively grows for around 30 days in the anagen phase. — Alanna Martine Kilkeary, Glamour, 17 June 2026

Capixyl increases the anagen (growth) phase, which boosts hair growth and promotes thicker, healthier hair. — Reece Andavolgyi, InStyle, 27 May 2026

Each hair follicle cycles through growth (anagen), transition (catagen), and rest (telogen) phases. — Scott Travers, Forbes.com, 29 June 2026

Minoxidil works by prolonging the anagen phase, allowing hair to grow longer and fuller before eventually transitioning into the rest period. — Kansas City Star, 27 Mar. 2026

Word History

Etymology

ana- + -gen

First Known Use

1926, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for anagen

• brannigan

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