Most people achieve up to 6 inches of hair growth per year. Certain things can slow down hair growth and make your hair unhealthy, like poor nutrition and excessive heat from styling aids. Adopting a few standard lifestyle changes can help you to maximize your hair growth.
Eat Healthy
Maintaining a healthy body naturally results in healthier hair. According to Hilda Sustaita of Houston Community College, approximately 91 percent of hair consists of a protein called keratin. Eating a balanced, high-protein diet can strengthen your hair and maximize its growth. Incorporating plenty of fruits and vegetables will help you to get many of the vitamins and minerals vital to stronger, longer hair. Fill any nutritional gaps in your diet by taking supplements. Talk to your doctor about supplements shown to improve hair growth and health, including biotin, inositol, folic acid, beta carotene, niacin and vitamins C and E. Consult your doctor prior to beginning a supplement program as too much of certain vitamins can cause harmful side effects or may interact with medications you take.
Take a Walk
Go for a 15-minute brisk walk around the neighborhood every other day at least. Karen Marie Shelton of HairBoutique.com suggests that moderate exercise that increases your heart rate improves blood circulation to the entire body, including the scalp. Stay hydrated as you exercise, and wear sunscreen regardless of the time of day. Talk to your doctor before beginning an exercise routine, especially if you have a heart condition.
Rest and Relaxation
Stress can have a negative impact on your body. Reducing stress increases the body's ability to function properly, including maximal hair growth. Curl up with a funny book or movie and drink a cup of green tea. Laughter relieves stress and some experts believe green tea may increase circulation which nourishes the scalp and hair roots according to Shelton. Lack of sleep creates stress and robs your body of much-needed energy. The resulting impaired bodily functions can lead to hair thinning, breakage, or the retardation of growth. Most people need 6 to 8 hours of sleep each night. If you can't get a full night's sleep, schedule a 20-minute catnap during the day to give your body a boost.
Be Gentle
Treat your hair with care because once it emerges from the hair follicle, it is dead and cannot repair or rejuvenate itself. Avoid unnecessary brushing, and use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers when styling. If possible, don't use direct heat on your hair. Turn your blow dryer to cool air, or if you must use heat, don't hover in one area for more than a few seconds.
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