Hair naturally grows about 6 to 8 inches each year. You can't fight genetics, but there are steps you can take to make sure your hair is growing at its optimal rate. Poor nutrition, an unhealthy lifestyle and some medications and medical conditions can stall the growth of hair or even lead to hair loss. If you're anxious for your hair to grow, begin by taking good care of your body.
Nutrition
Proper nutrition is important for hair growth, says the Hair Boutique. Start by drinking plenty of fluids and limit your intake of caffeine. Eat a diet rich in vitamins, but be careful not to overdo it when it comes to vitamin A. The McKinley Health Center at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign warns that excessive amounts of vitamin A can actually lead to hair loss. Do make foods rich in vitamin B an important part of your diet. The University of Maryland Medical Center says B vitamins are necessary for healthy hair, skin, eyes and liver. One of the B vitamins, biotin, is found in many hair and skin products and is often recommended to strengthen hair and nails. The Vitamins and Nutrition Center also recommends making sure you're getting enough vitamins C and E, beta-carotene, magnesium, sulfur and zinc.
Lifestyle
If it's not good for you, it's probably not good for your hair either. The Hair Boutique says certain lifestyle habits can impede your hair's growth. It cites excessive caffeine, sugar, alcohol, nicotine and junk foods. Be sure you're getting enough sleep to keep your body working well. Take some time to rest and relax. Too much stress can have an impact on your hair's growth or lead to hair loss.
Hair Care
It's also important to take care of the hair you have. It may not make it grow any quicker, but it will help it look its best and limit hair loss. Hair chemicals and hot blow dryers and curling irons can take a toll on your tresses, according to the Hair Boutique. Use gentle hair care products and detangling combs to keep from damaging your hair.
Hair Loss Treatments
If you're losing hair, there are treatments available to slow the loss and help stimulate new hair growth. The Mayo Clinic says minoxidil is an over-the-counter medication that has helped some people experience hair regrowth, a slower rate of loss or both. Finasteride is a prescription medication for treatment of male pattern baldness. It has not been approved for use by women.
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