Which term describes temporary hair loss during the telogen phase?

The term that best describes temporary hair loss during the telogen phase is "shedding." The telogen phase is the final phase of the hair growth cycle, during which the hair is fully formed but is not actively growing. During this phase, hair naturally falls out and is replaced by new hair as part of the cyclical process. This shedding is a normal part of hair growth, and it typically occurs without any underlying health issues.

In contrast, the other terms do not accurately reflect the process occurring during the telogen phase. A growth spurt refers to an increase in growth speed during the anagen phase of hair growth, where hair is actively growing. Follicle collapse suggests a more acute condition that implies a problem with the hair follicle itself, rather than natural hair shedding. Hair thinning may reference a reduction in hair density, which can occur for various reasons and is not specifically tied to the telogen stage. Thus, shedding is the most appropriate term to describe this normal occurrence during the telogen phase.