Telogen is a phase in the hair growth cycle where hair follicles rest. During this stage, hair is not actively growing, and it typically lasts for about 2 to 3 months. At the end of the telogen phase, the hair will eventually shed, making way for new hair to grow.
This phase is part of a larger cycle that includes anagen (growth phase) and catagen (transitional phase). Factors like stress, hormonal changes, and certain medical conditions can influence the duration and occurrence of the telogen phase, potentially leading to increased hair shedding known as telogen effluvium.