The anagen phase is the growth phase of the hair cycle. Which option correctly names this phase as the growth phase?

• A. Resting phase
• B. Growth phase
• C. Transitional phase
• D. Shedding phase

Answer: (B)

During the hair cycle, the phase where the follicle is actively producing hair is the growth phase. In this stage, the hair matrix cells divide vigorously, pushing the hair shaft upward and lengthening the strand. The duration of this phase varies and largely determines how long hair can grow. The other phases describe different states: a resting phase where growth stops and the hair rests before shedding, a transitional phase where the follicle shortens in preparation to shed, and shedding occurs as the hair exits the cycle. Naming the growth phase correctly captures the period of active hair production, which is exactly what the anagen phase represents.