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How Long Does It Take For Your Hair To Grow Back [UK] 2023?
Updated on
- Written by Lisandra Fields, Health Writer
Medically reviewed by
Kathy Shattler, MS, RDN
Hair loss is a common concern for many individuals, and the journey toward regaining a full head of hair can be a topic of great curiosity. Whether you’re experiencing hair loss due to aging, illness, or other factors, the question remains: How long does it take to grow back?
In this article, we embark on a fascinating exploration of the hair growth cycle and the factors that influence its duration. From the impact of genetics and age to the role of nutrition and lifestyle choices, we examine many variables that affect hair growth. Furthermore, we provide practical insights and expert advice to help you optimize the regrowth process and promote healthy hair development.
Join us on this informative journey as we demystify the timelines of hair regrowth and equip you with a deeper understanding of your precious tresses’ remarkable resilience and potential of your precious tresses.
Key Takeaways
The duration for hair to grow back varies depending on several factors, such as genetics, overall health, and individual circumstances. On average, hair grows about half an inch (1.25 cm) monthly. It may take approximately 6-12 months to grow back a full head of hair, starting from a clean-shaven scalp. However, specific cases like postpartum hair loss or chemotherapy-induced hair loss may have different timelines. It’s important to note that hair regrowth is a gradual process that requires patience and consistent care. Consulting with a healthcare professional or dermatologist can provide personalized guidance based on your unique situation.
What Is Hair Made Of?
Hair is a fascinating structure composed of various elements, each playing a crucial role in its composition and appearance. So, what exactly is hair made of? Let’s take a closer look.
At its core, hair is primarily made up of a protein called keratin. Keratin is a tough and durable protein that forms the building blocks of our hair strands. It provides strength, elasticity, and structure to our locks, making them resilient and flexible.
Hair also contains a small amount of water, lipids (fatty substances), and pigments. These pigments, known as melanin, determine the natural color of our hair. The more melanin present,[1] the darker the hair color, while lower levels result in lighter shades.
Hair follicles, the tiny structures beneath our scalp’s surface, are responsible for hair growth. They consist of living cells that produce and push the hair out from the root. These follicles receive nourishment from blood vessels, ensuring the supply of essential nutrients that contribute to hair health.[2]
Stages Of Hair Growth
The growth process is a dynamic cycle involving distinct stages. Understanding these stages helps us grasp the intricate nature of hair growth. So, let’s delve into the different phases that hair goes through.
Anagen Phase
This is the active growth phase of hair. Lasting anywhere from two to seven years, it determines the length and thickness of our hair. During this phase, cells in the hair follicles divide rapidly, and new hair is formed. The longer the anagen phase,[2] the longer your hair can grow.
Catagen Phase
After the anagen phase, hair enters the catagen phase, also known as the transitional phase. This short period lasts for about two to three weeks. During this time, hair follicles shrink, and hair growth slows down. The hair detaches from the blood supply and becomes club hair.
Telogen Phase
The telogen phase, or the resting phase, follows the catagen phase. It lasts for approximately two to four months. During this phase, the hair follicle remains inactive, and the old hair rests in the follicle. About 10-15% of our hair is in this phase at any given time.
Exogen Phase
The exogen phase refers to the shedding of hair. As new hair grows, the old hair is pushed out of the follicle and falls out naturally. It is important to note that the shedding 50-100 hairs daily is considered normal.
What Affects The Regrowth Of Hair?
Several factors influence hair regrowth, determining the speed and quality of new hair growth. Understanding these factors can help us take proactive measures to support the regrowth process. Let’s explore the key elements that affect hair regrowth:
- Genetics: Our genetic makeup plays a significant role[3] in determining the rate and pattern of hair growth. Some individuals with hereditary hair loss are naturally predisposed to faster or slower hair regrowth, which can be influenced by their family history and overall nutritional status.
- Age: As we age, the rate of hair growth tends to slow down. Hair follicles may become less active, resulting in thinner and slower-growing hair. Age-related hormonal changes[4] can also impact the hair growth cycle.
- Nutritional Factors: A well-balanced diet rich in essential nutrients[2] is vital for healthy hair regrowth. Nutrients like vitamins (especially B vitamins), minerals (such as iron and zinc), and proteins contribute to the strength and vitality of hair follicles. Poor nutrition can lead to hair loss or slower regrowth.
- Health Conditions And Medications: Certain medical conditions,[5] such as hormonal imbalances, thyroid disorders, autoimmune diseases, and scalp infections, can affect hair regrowth. Medications like chemotherapy or those used to treat certain illnesses may also lead to hair thinning.
- Lifestyle Choices: Our lifestyle habits can impact hair regrowth. Factors like smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, high-stress levels, and inadequate sleep can contribute to hair loss or hinder regrowth. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can support optimal hair growth.
- Hair Care Practices: Overly harsh or frequent styling, excessive heat from hair tools, chemical treatments, and improper hair care routines can damage hair follicles and impede regrowth. Gentle handling, avoiding tight hairstyles, and using essential oils for hair can help protect and promote healthy regrowth.
How Long Does It Take Hair To Grow Back In Various Cases?
The duration it takes for the hair to grow back can vary depending on several factors and individual circumstances. While there is no one-size-fits-all answer, let’s explore the general timelines for hair regrowth in five cases.
How Long Does It Take For Hair To Grow Back After Waxing?
After waxing, it typically takes about four to six weeks for a hair to grow back, as the waxing process removes the hair from the root, allowing for a longer regrowth than shaving.
How Long Does It Take For Hair To Grow Back After Chemo?
Hair typically starts to grow back within four to six weeks[6] after completing chemotherapy, but the rate of regrowth can vary. It may take several months for the hair to return to its pre-treatment appearance fully.
How Long Does It Take For Hair To Grow Back For Guys?
For guys, the rate of hair regrowth can vary depending on factors such as genetics, overall health, and individual circumstances. On average, hair grows about half an inch (1.25 cm) monthly. It may take approximately 6-12 months to grow back a full head of hair starting from a clean-shaven scalp, but this timeline can differ for each person.
How Long Does It Take For Hair To Grow Back After Shaving?
After shaving, hair typically grows back within a few days to a week, depending on individual factors such as genetics and hair growth rate. However, it may appear thicker or coarser initially due to the blunt cut ends. It usually takes a couple of weeks for the hair to regain its natural texture and appearance.
How Long Does It Take For Hair To Grow Back After A Haircut?
The time it takes for the hair to grow back after a haircut can vary depending on individual factors, such as male pattern baldness, hair growth rate, and genetics. On average, hair grows about half an inch (1.25 cm)[7] monthly.
Ways To Help Your Hair Grow Back Faster
While the rate of hair growth is largely determined by genetics and individual factors, there are several steps you can take to create an optimal environment for faster hair regrowth. Here are some ways to support the process:
Maintain A Balanced Diet
Ensure you consume a well-rounded diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and proteins. Include foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Nutrients like vitamin A, B, biotin, iron, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids help prevent permanent hair loss, male pattern hair loss, and alopecia.
Stay Hydrated
Drink adequate water daily to keep your body and hair hydrated. Hydration supports the optimal functioning of hair follicles and promotes overall hair health. Women need about 11.5 cups of water[8] daily, and men need 15.5 cups.
Practice Stress Management
Chronic stress can negatively impact hair growth.[9] Practice stress-management techniques such as exercise, meditation, deep breathing, or engaging in hobbies you enjoy. Prioritize self-care and find ways to relax and unwind.
Avoid Tight Hairstyles
Wearing hairstyles that pull tightly on the hair can cause male and female pattern hair loss, damage, and breakage. Be careful about how you deep condition hair and opt for looser hairstyles or protective styles that minimize tension on the hair and scalp if you want to regrow hair.
Scalp Massage
Regularly massage your scalp using gentle circular motions. This can help increase blood circulation[10] to the hair follicles, promoting nutrient delivery and stimulating hair growth.
Final Thought
By adopting a holistic approach that includes a balanced diet, scalp care, stress management, and gentle hair practices, you can easily promote hair growth. However, it’s important to remember that hair regrowth is a gradual process that requires patience and consistency.
Results may vary, and it’s crucial to manage expectations accordingly. If you have concerns about excessive hair loss or slow regrowth, we recommend seeking professional advice from a healthcare professional or dermatologist for hair loss treatment options.
+ 10 sources
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- Takashi Itou, Ito, S. and Wakamatsu, K. (2022). Effects of Aging on Hair Color, Melanosomes, and Melanin Composition in Japanese Males and Their Sex Differences. [online] 23(22), pp.14459–14459. doi:https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms232214459.
- Rajput, R.J. (2022). Influence of nutrition, food supplements and lifestyle in hair disorders. [online] 13(6), pp.721–721. doi:https://doi.org/10.4103/idoj.idoj_175_22.
- Nuriye Gokce, Neslihan Basgoz, Sercan Kenanoglu, Hilal Akalin, Yusuf Ozkul, Mahmut Cerkez Ergoren, Beccari, T., Bertelli, M. and Munis Dundar (2022). An overview of the genetic aspects of hair loss and its connection with nutrition. [online] 63(2 Suppl 3), pp.E228–E238. doi:https://doi.org/10.15167/2421-4248/jpmh2022.63.2s3.2765.
- Assaf Monselise, Cohen, D., Wanser, R. and Shapiro, J. (2015). What Ages Hair? [online] 3(1), pp.S52–S57. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijwd.2017.02.010.
- Periyanaina Kesika, Nevin Sanlier, Subramanian Thangaleela, Bharathi Muruganantham and Chaiyavat Chaiyasut (2023). Role and Mechanisms of Phytochemicals in Hair Growth and Health. [online] 16(2), pp.206–206. doi:https://doi.org/10.3390/ph16020206.
- Watanabe, T., Hiroshi Yagata, Saito, M., Okada, H., Yajima, T., Tamai, N., Yoshida, Y., Takayama, T., Imai, H., Nozawa, K., Takafumi Sangai, Yoshimura, A., Hasegawa, Y., Yamaguchi, T., Kojiro Shimozuma and Ohashi, Y. (2019). A multicenter survey of temporal changes in chemotherapy-induced hair loss in breast cancer patients. [online] 14(1), pp.e0208118–e0208118. doi:https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0208118.
- Nih.gov. (2019). What is the structure of hair and how does it grow? [online] Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK546248/
- Mayo Clinic. (2022). How much water do you need to stay healthy? [online] Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/water/art-20044256
- Eva M.J. Peters, Müller, Y., W. Snaga, Fliege, H., A. Reißhauer, Schmidt-Rose, T., Max, H., Schweiger, D., Rose, M. and Kruse, J. (2017). Hair and stress: A pilot study of hair and cytokine balance alteration in healthy young women under major exam stress. [online] 12(4), pp.e0175904–e0175904. doi:https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0175904.
- In Young Kim, Kim, T. and Young Guk Ko (2016). The effect of a scalp massage on stress hormone, blood pressure, and heart rate of healthy female. [online] 28(10), pp.2703–2707. doi:https://doi.org/10.1589/jpts.28.2703.
Written by:
Lisandra Fields, Health Writer
Medically reviewed by:
Medically reviewed by:
