The Hair Growth Cycle & Why It Feels Like Your Curls Aren’t Growing
If you’ve ever looked in the mirror and wondered, “Why do my curls look the same length month after month?”—you’re not alone. Many people with curly or coily hair feel like their hair isn’t growing, even when it absolutely is. The truth lies in understanding the hair growth cycle and how curls behave differently than straight hair.
Let’s break it down.
The 3 Stages of Hair Growth
Hair growth happens in a continuous cycle made up of three main phases:
Anagen (Growth Phase)
This is when your hair is actively growing. It can last 2–7 years depending on genetics, health, and age. The longer your hair stays in this phase, the longer it can grow.Catagen (Transition Phase)
This is a short 2–3 week period where hair growth slows down and the follicle begins to shrink. It’s a natural part of the renewal cycle.Telogen (Resting & Shedding Phase)
In this stage, old hairs rest while new hairs begin to push them out. It lasts around 3 months and can lead to visible shedding—especially noticeable when washing or detangling.
So Why Doesn’t It Look Like My Curls Are Growing?
Curly hair grows at the same rate as straight hair (around half an inch per month), but here’s why it may seem like it’s not:
1. Shrinkage
Your curls coil up, sometimes reducing visible length by up to 75%! So even if your hair has grown 3 inches, it might only look like 1 inch when dry and styled.
2. Breakage vs Retention
Hair might be growing, but if you're losing length due to dryness, split ends, heat damage, or rough detangling, it won’t seem like it. Growth means nothing if you can't retain the ends.
3. Single Strand Knots & Tangles
Curls love to wrap around themselves. This can cause knots that lead to breakage if not handled gently, especially during detangling or washing.
4. Lack of Regular Trims
Ironically, skipping trims can stunt visual growth. Trimming split or thinning ends keeps your curls healthy and helps them appear fuller and longer over time.
How to Support Healthy Growth & Retention
Moisturize regularly with water-based leave-ins and deep conditioning.
Protect your curls at night with silk/satin bonnets or pillowcases.
Trim consistently, every 3–4 months if you're aiming for length.
Detangle gently using your fingers or a wide-tooth comb.
Avoid heat and harsh chemicals that can cause long-term damage.
Focus on scalp health, a clean, nourished scalp supports growth.
Your curls are growing, but they might need some extra TLC to show it. Once you understand the hair growth cycle and learn how to retain your length, you’ll start seeing the progress you’ve been hoping for.
And remember: length is just one measure of healthy hair. Shine, bounce, and definition matter too.
If you are in the Okanagan, BC and need to make your next trim appt, click Here. And if you have any questions, leave it in the comments or follow me on IG Curlsbyaris