The Science Behind Hair Growth Cycles and Transplants in Sheffield

Hair growth is governed by a cycle of distinct biological phases, each playing a specific role in maintaining the density and health of the scalp. When hair loss begins, whether due to genetics, hormonal imbalances, or stress-related triggers, it reflects a disruption in this natural cycle. Understanding these phases is key not just for diagnosis, but for planning hair restoration procedures such as a follicular unit excision (FUE) transplant.

The anagen phase represents active growth. Hair follicles remain metabolically active during this stage, producing new fibres for years at a time. A healthy anagen phase can last between 2 to 7 years, influenced by genetics and age. Individuals with a longer anagen phase can grow longer hair. By contrast, if this stage shortens prematurely, hair will thin over time. The catagen phase follows, lasting around two to three weeks. It serves as a transitional period, where the follicle begins to shrink and detaches from the blood supply. This is immediately succeeded by the telogen phase—a resting period that lasts approximately 3 months. In this phase, hair is no longer growing, and older strands fall out to allow a new cycle to begin.

Clinical evidence has shown that in male and female pattern hair loss, a growing percentage of follicles remain trapped in the telogen phase (telogen effluvium), or cycle through anagen too rapidly to maintain healthy coverage. A study published in International Journal of Trichology highlighted the miniaturisation process that accompanies androgenetic alopecia, in which the follicle size and anagen duration progressively reduce.

When hair loss becomes advanced, oral and topical medications may offer limited results. At that point, FUE transplant surgery becomes a practical and evidence-supported option. In FUE, individual follicular units are extracted from the back and sides of the scalp—areas typically resistant to androgenic thinning—and reimplanted into thinning or bald areas. For the procedure to succeed, the transplanted grafts must survive the trauma of extraction, remain viable through implantation, and successfully enter a new anagen phase.

After surgery, it is common for these follicles to shed their hairs within weeks, in a process referred to as “shock loss.” This should not be mistaken for failure. Provided the grafts are placed properly and have vascular support, new anagen growth generally begins around the 12-week mark. Final results are usually visible between 9 to 12 months post-op.

Hair transplant prices in Sheffield vary depending on the extent of hair loss and the number of grafts needed. At My Hair UK, the price ranges from £2,499 for up to 500 grafts to £4,899 for up to 3,500 grafts. These prices include consultation, surgery, and post-operative aftercare. Patients should view these as long-term investments in permanent restoration, particularly where other treatments have failed.

It is essential to assess your general health before undergoing any surgical procedure. Nutritional deficiencies, thyroid dysfunction, or inflammatory conditions like lupus can mimic or worsen hair loss. A consultation with your local GP can help rule out these issues and guide you to an appropriate specialist if needed. In Sheffield, three GP surgeries we would suggest include:

• Dykes Hall Medical Centre - 156 Dykes Hall Rd, Sheffield S6 4GQ

• Upwell Street Surgery, 93 Upwell St, Sheffield S4 8AN

• Woodhouse Health Centre, 3 Skelton Ln, Woodhouse, La, Sheffield S13 7LY

Each provides general health screening and can offer referrals to dermatology or endocrinology services if systemic causes are suspected.

New directions in research continue to shape our understanding of follicular behaviour. Investigations into platelet-derived growth factors, exosome therapy, and the role of prostaglandin D2 inhibition suggest that we may eventually see non-surgical methods that reliably trigger follicles back into anagen. While not yet part of standard treatment, they may one day complement transplantation for patients with stubborn forms of alopecia.

Hair transplants are no longer just about aesthetics—they are grounded in biology. Understanding your own hair cycle is the first step toward meaningful, long-lasting treatment.