We all know how often hair can changeunnaturally.

For some people, it’s a new color every six weeks, or less often for semi-permanent dye.

For others, it’s new extensions or a sew-in weave every four weeks.

Lady with long brown hair and hat

In some cases, there’s a cycle involved in these changes.

But how often does this happen?

How often does hair change naturally?

Concerned woman looking at her scalp in front of mirror

Carlos Wesley, a hair loss specialist (viaAllure).

So, you might expect your hair to change to some degree about every five-and-half years, on average.

Now let’s take a closer look at that initial phase of the growth cycle, shall we?

Lady brushing her hair in front of mirror

The anagen phase is when hairs are actively growing on your head.

This stage begins when hair follicles push new hair strands out from the scalp.

This means your hair won’t grow back the exact same way it did years prior.

For some people, the hair can be weaker or thinner.

For others, it means the hair won’t grow as long.

The good news is, there are ways these changes can be prevented or delayed.

Avoiding stress also helps, as Dr. Carlos Wesley toldAllure.

The stronger the hair, the less likely it is to break.

However, it’s best to speak with a dermatologist before trying any product that makes these claims.