Health Conditions
Anagen Effluvium
Rapid hair loss during the active growth phase, typically caused by chemotherapy or toxins.
Anagen effluvium is a non-scarring form of hair loss that occurs during the anagen (growth) phase of the hair cycle. Unlike telogen effluvium (where hairs enter resting phase early), anagen effluvium involves direct damage to the hair matrix cells that are actively dividing. The most common cause is chemotherapy, which targets rapidly dividing cells throughout the body, including hair follicle matrix cells. Hair loss typically begins 1-3 weeks after chemotherapy initiation and affects 65-85% of patients depending on the drug regimen. Regrowth usually begins 3-6 months after treatment ends, though hair texture and color may change. Supplement support post-chemotherapy should always be discussed with the oncology team.