INTRODUCTION

If you’ve ever envied the luxurious manes of show horses or dreamt of your own horse sporting a flowing, Instagram-worthy mane, you’re not alone. As equine enthusiasts and holistic wellness advocates, we know how pivotal a luscious mane is—not just for aesthetics but for your horse’s overall health and wellbeing. In this blog, we’ll dive deep into the science of horse mane growth, uncovering what’s happening beneath the surface and how you can support your equine companion’s locks naturally, safely, and effectively with our REGROW serum.

At NEIGHKED, we’re serious about helping you achieve those mane goals, and we’ve done the research so you don’t have to. From understanding the three key phases of hair growth to exploring the role of nutrition, grooming, and product innovation, we’ll give you the tools and the produscts to transform your horse’s mane. Ready to gallop into the science? Let’s get started!

What Exactly Is Horse Mane Hair Made Of?

Horse hair may look effortless, but beneath those soft, shiny strands lies a marvel of biology. Mane hair is primarily made of keratin, a protein that’s also found in your own hair and nails. Keratin provides the mane with its strength, elasticity, and structure.

But here’s the kicker: keratin doesn’t grow in isolation. It’s produced by hair follicles, which are nestled in the skin and act as tiny factories for hair production. These follicles rely on the horse’s overall health to function optimally. Without proper care, they can slow down, leading to a mane that looks dull, thin, or brittle.

Fun fact: Did you know that horses’ manes grow at an average of 0.5-1 inch per month? This rate can vary depending on factors like breed, age, diet, and grooming habits. That’s why supporting your horse’s mane growth is about more than just aesthetics—it’s about holistic care.

The Three Phases of Mane Growth: A Hairy Cycle

Horse mane growth isn’t random; it follows a cycle with three distinct phases. Understanding these phases can help you tailor your care routine to support each stage.

• Anagen (Growth Phase): This is when the magic happens! During this phase, the hair follicle is actively producing keratin, and the mane grows visibly longer. The length of this phase varies by individual horses, but it’s directly influenced by their nutrition and overall health.
• Aatagen (Transition Phase): Think of this as a “resting” period for the follicle. The hair stops growing but remains attached to the follicle. It’s a short phase, but it’s key for maintaining hair strength.
• Telogen (Shedding Phase): Finally, the hair falls out to make way for new growth. Don’t panic if you see some shedding—it’s a natural part of the cycle. However, excessive hair loss could signal an underlying issue.

By supporting the anagen phase through proper care, you can prolong the growth period and maximise your horse’s mane potential.

The Role of Blood Circulation in Mane Growth

Blood flow to the scalp—err, mane base—is crucial for delivering the nutrients that hair follicles need to thrive. Without proper circulation, the follicles can become dormant, leading to slower growth.

Encourage circulation by:

• Grooming with soft brushes to stimulate the skin.
• Massaging the mane base with oils.
• Ensuring your horse gets regular exercise, as movement boosts overall circulation.

Hormones and Mane Growth: What You Need to Know

Just like humans, horses’ hair growth is influenced by hormones. Conditions like Cushing’s disease can lead to abnormal hair growth or shedding. If you notice sudden changes in your horse’s mane, consult a vet to rule out hormonal imbalances.

Stress and Its Impact on Hair Growth

Stress isn’t just a human problem—it affects horses too. Elevated cortisol levels can disrupt the hair growth cycle, leading to thinning or shedding.

Combat stress by:

• Using calming supplements like our Buck-Off Calming Blend.
• Creating a stable, predictable routine for your horse.
• Ensuring plenty of turnout time to reduce boredom and anxiety.

Can Genetics Be Overcome?

While genetics play a role in mane thickness and length, they aren’t the whole story. Environmental factors, grooming habits, and nutrition can all help your horse maximise their genetic potential.

Wrapping Up: The Mane Event

Growing a lush mane is part science, part art, and 100% achievable with the right approach. By focusing on nutrition, grooming, and holistic care, you can unlock your horse’s full mane potential. At Neighked, we’re here to guide you every step of the way with products and advice you can trust.