On average, human hair grows about 6 inches (approximately 15 centimeters) per year. This equates to roughly half an inch (1.2 to 1.3 centimeters) per month or about 0.01 inch (0.35 millimeters) per day
. However, this is an average figure and individual hair growth rates can vary significantly due to factors such as genetics, age, health, ethnicity, and environmental influences. For example, hair growth rates differ among ethnic groups: people of African descent may experience slower growth around 0.2 inch (5 mm) per month, while Asian hair can grow faster, up to 0.8 inch (20 mm) per month
. Additionally, hair thickness can influence growth speed, with thicker hair generally growing faster than thinner hair
. Hair growth occurs in cycles with three phases-anagen (growth), catagen (transition), and telogen (resting)-and the length of these phases affects overall growth
. In summary:
- Average hair growth: about 6 inches per year (0.5 inch per month)
- Growth rate can range roughly from 2.4 to 8.4 inches per year depending on individual factors
- Genetic and ethnic factors play a significant role in growth variability
This means while 6 inches per year is a good baseline, your personal hair growth may be somewhat faster or slower depending on your unique biology and health
