Anna Urban, Co-Founder of hair supplements brand Aviva, allowed us to pick her brain about all things hair growth. Check out our two-part interview below where we ask all your burning questions on just what goes up top all of our crowns:

So Anna, is everyone's hair growth cycle the same, regardless of texture?

Every hair goes through the same growth cycle regardless of texture and on average grows of about half an inch each month or 1.25 centimeters. All three phases Anagen, Catagen and Telogen occur simultaneously; one strand of hair may be in the anagen phase, while another is in the telogen phase. At any given time, as much as 90% of the hair on your head is in the growth phase. That leaves about 10% of your strands in what's called the "resting" phase.

Can you break down what the characteristics of each stage of the hair growth cycle are? 

ANAGEN - The Growth Phase

At any given time, up to 80%-90% of hair is in this phase - which is why it's so important to nourish the hair follicle during Anagen. At this time hair fibers are created through the production of protein and keratin. Hair follicles begin to emerge from pores, while oil is produced by sebaceous glands to protect and condition hair.

CATAGEN - The Transformation Phase

Up to 1%-2% of hair is in this phase right now. During Catagen, the hair follicle shrinks, a part of it is destroyed, and the dermal papilla (which nourishes the follicle) breaks away to rest and rejuvenate-if it has the proper help. Catagen can last anywhere from 2-3 weeks.

TELOGEN - The Resting Phase

10%-14% of hair is in this phase at any given time. During Telogen, hairs do not to grow, as their dermal papilla is in a resting period. Hair remains in the follicles for about three months, and is gradually shed during exogen, which is part of the Telogen phase. Telogen can last anywhere from 3-4 months. 

Stau tuned to part-two of our interview tomorrow where we get professional tips on how to promote hair growth!