Many of us dream of long, healthy hair, but sometimes it feels like our strands simply stop growing. In reality, your hair is always in a growth cycle, which has three main stages:

·        Anagen (growth phase): where the hair actively grows, lasting anywhere from 2–7 years.

·        Catagen (transition phase): a short two-week stage when growth slows and the follicle begins to shrink.

·        Telogen (resting and shedding phase): when the hair eventually falls out to make way for new growth.

Most of your hairs are in the anagen phase at any one time, but if something disrupts this cycle, it can slow down growth or make your hair appear stuck at the same length. So, why might this be happening, and what can you do to help?

Why Might This Be Happening?

Genetics

Family history and genetics play a big role in how your hair grows and how it may thin over time. Everyone has a natural “terminal length” – the maximum length your hair can reach before it sheds and starts again – but inherited factors also influence density and thickness. Conditions such as female pattern hair loss (FPHL) and male pattern hair loss (MPHL) are common, and if your parents or grandparents experienced thinning hair, there is a chance you may notice it, too. While you cannot change your genes, being aware of your family history can help you spot early signs and take steps to support scalp and hair health.

Nutrient Deficiencies

Hair is made of keratin, a protein that needs the right nutrients to form. Lacking key vitamins and minerals, such as Iron, Vitamin D, and Biotin, can slow down growth and even trigger hair loss.

Stress

Stress affects the whole body, and your hair is no exception. High stress levels can disrupt the natural growth cycle, causing hair to shed more than usual.

Hormone Imbalances

Hormones strongly influence hair growth. Conditions such as thyroid issues, PCOS, or life stages like pregnancy and menopause can change the way your hair grows.

Poor Scalp Health

A healthy scalp is essential for healthy hair. If you are dealing with dandruff, product build-up, or an irritated scalp, your hair follicles may be blocked or weakened, making it harder for hair to grow.

What Can You Do About It?

·       Support your nutrition: Eat a balanced diet with plenty of protein, leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and healthy fats. Speak with a doctor if you think you might need supplements.

·       Manage stress: Activities such as meditation, journalling, yoga, walking, or simply setting aside time to unwind can make a big difference.

·       Check hormone health: If you suspect a hormonal imbalance, it is worth consulting a healthcare professional for tailored advice.

·       Prioritise scalp care: Keep your scalp clean and balanced with gently cleansing, occasional exfoliation and nourishing treatments.

·       Incorporate scalp massage: Regularly massaging your scalp with our Bamboo Paddle Brush or your hands can help stimulate blood flow to the hair follicles, encouraging growth and supporting overall scalp health.

Do Regular Trims Help Hair Grow?

It is a common myth that trimming your hair makes it grow faster. In truth, trimming does not affect the growth rate at the root. However, regular trims are still very beneficial. By removing split ends and preventing breakage, trims help your hair stay healthy and maintain length. Without them, damaged ends may break off, making it seem like your hair is not growing at all.

When Should You See a Doctor?

If you start noticing hair loss at the same time as feeling unwell, or if your scalp becomes painful or irritated, it is a good idea to check in with your doctor. They can help identify what might be causing the problem and guide you towards the right treatment. Before starting any prescription medication or considering medical procedures for hair loss, it is always best to seek advice from your GP or a dermatologist.

Final Thoughts

If your hair feels like it has stopped growing, the cause is usually a mix of genetics, nutrition, stress, hormones, or scalp health. While you cannot control every factor, focusing on your overall well-being and caring for your scalp and strands will give your hair the best chance to thrive. And remember, regular trims will not speed up growth – but they will help you keep every inch of progress you gain.

Using gentle, nourishing products can also make a real difference. At Moo & Yoo, our natural formulas are designed to support scalp health and encourage stronger, healthier hair – all while being kind to the planet.

Check out our range of gentle haircare and start your journey to healthy, happy hair.

Love,

The Moo & Yoo Team x