Telogen is the resting phase of the hair growth cycle, which consists of three main stages: anagen, catagen, and telogen. During this phase, hair follicles are inactive, and the hair strand may remain in place for several weeks to months before shedding. At the end of the telogen phase, the hair falls out, making way for new hair to grow in the anagen phase. This cycle is essential for maintaining healthy hair and can be influenced by factors such as stress, nutrition, and hormonal changes.