Long, healthy hair takes years to grow, but---as with most good things in life---it is worth the wait. According to Susan Maxwell Schmidt at LongLocks.com, everyone has a genetically predetermined "terminal length" beyond which the hair will not grow. But, many people never find out what their terminal length is because damage and breakage keep them from growing long hair. Growing hair long takes patience, commitment and work. What it does not take is expensive products or treatments.
Step 1
Trim away all visibly damaged hair. It might seem odd to start growing hair by cutting it, but split ends will keep splitting up the hair shaft, making your hair look frizzy and dry.
Step 2
Wash your hair correctly with a strengthening shampoo. Apply a quarter-size dollop of shampoo to your scalp and massage it in. Let the water rinse the shampoo down the length of your hair. Do not pile your hair on top of your head and scrub it because this encourages tangles.
Step 3
Moisturize your hair with a strengthening conditioner. Avoid putting conditioner on your scalp, as it can clog pores and follicles. Most hair has enough oils right at the scalp to keep it from tangling.
Step 4
Rinse your hair with water that is as cold as you can stand it. This helps keep the natural oils from being stripped out and makes your hair look shiny and healthy.
Step 5
Wrap your head in an absorbent towel or turban after washing and conditioning it to soak up excess water. Do not rub, wring or twist your hair because this promotes breakage.
Step 6
Treat your hair to an overnight hot oil treatment 1 or 2 times per month. Fill a small bowl with hot water. Place the hot oil tube or packet in the water and let it sit for 3 to 5 minutes. Massage the oil into your hair, then put on a shower cap or sleep turban. Wash your hair as usual the next morning.
Step 7
Braid your hair before going to bed at night. Use only non-breakage coated elastics on the ends. Sleeping with your hair braided helps protect it from the friction caused by turning over in your sleep.
Tips and Warnings
- Put a satin pillowcase on your pillow to help cut down on breakage caused by friction.
- Avoid all harsh chemicals, high heat and damaging hair accessories while you are growing out your hair.
Things You'll Need
- Sharp scissors
- Strengthening shampoo
- Strengthening conditioner
- Absorbent towel or turban
- Wide-toothed comb
- Hot oil treatment
- Small bowl
- Shower cap or sleep turban
- Coated hair elastics
- Satin pillowcase (optional)
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