Most people average about one-half inch of hair growth per month, according to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). Unfortunately, you can't speed the process up much more than that. If you need significantly longer hair in a short period of time, consider getting a wig or hair extensions. Otherwise, if you have the time and patience, you can take a few steps to maximize your hair growth.
Diet and Exercise
A balanced, healthy diet provides your body with the nutrients it needs to grow long, strong hair. Dermatologist Jeffrey Benabio, M.D., says a hair-healthy diet should include vegetables, fruits, whole grains and plenty of lean sources of protein. Benabio also recommends supplementing your diet with 1,500mcg of biotin daily.
Exercise also plays a crucial role in hair growth. Regular cardiovascular and aerobic exercise reduces the levels of growth-blocking cortisone and DHT in the body, according to the Revivogen website. In short, a healthy body leads to healthy hair.
Rest and Relaxation
The AAD reports that stress and illness can cause your hair to enter the resting phase, called telogen, of its growth cycle. Keep your hair growing by finding ways to unwind each day. Take up yoga, learn to meditate or just curl up with a good book. Make sure you get a full night's sleep, too. "Sleep deprivation is a form of stress, a terrible form of stress," says Leonora Doclis, the Belgravia Centre's senior trichologist.
Hair Care Tips
While proper hair care doesn't make your hair grow faster, it does protect your hard-earned growth. After all, if the hairs break or pull out, you have to grow it all over again. These tips will help you to avoid damaging, breaking or tearing your healthy hair.
Invest in high-quality shampoo and conditioner from a salon. Over-the-counter (OTC) shampoos and conditioners found in stores often contain sulfates and silicon that can dry out or suffocate your hair, making it prone to breakage.
Avoid brushes with knobs on the ends of the bristles that can tear hair. Use a brush with natural bristles or a wide-toothed comb to style your hair. Don't brush your hair excessively, and don't tease your hair into styles contrary to its natural direction.
Minimize the use of direct heat on your hair. Set your hair dryer to blow cool air, or let your hair air dry. Use sponge rollers instead of a hot curling iron.
Find a Good Stylist
Growing out your locks requires commitment, patience and a good stylist to help you through the awkward stages of growth and keep split ends at bay. Get your hair trimmed every eight to 10 weeks to keep the ends healthy. Many stylists accustomed to working with long hair will "dust" the ends, meaning they will cut off as little hair as possible. Discuss your goals with your stylist so she can help you look your best while you grow out your hair.
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