What phase is characterized as the transitional stage of hair growth?

The transitional stage of hair growth is known as the catagen phase. During this phase, which follows the anagen phase where active hair growth occurs, the hair follicle begins to shrink, and the lower part of the follicle degenerates. This duration typically lasts for a few weeks, signaling the end of the growth cycle for that particular hair strand.

It's important to differentiate this phase from others in the hair growth cycle. The anagen phase is where the hair actively grows, the telogen phase is the resting phase where the hair is not growing and is eventually shed, and "growth phase" is a broader term that does not specifically denote the transitional nature of the catagen phase. The unique characteristics of the catagen phase make it vital for understanding the complete hair growth cycle and its dynamics.