Important factors influencing hair growth are all under your control, so pay attention to how you treat your hair. A few lifestyle changes can improve your hair health and growth as well as your overall level of health. Be patient, since it takes time to notice hair growth results.
Proper Nutrition
Lack of proper nutrition is a leading cause of hair loss, according to the Mayo Clinic. Eat a well-balanced diet to help improve your hair growth and health. Choose foods from each food group found in the U.S. Department of Agriculture's food pyramid, according to mypyramid.gov. These include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, dairy products, lean protein and heart-healthy oils. Heart-healthy oils consist of plant-based sources including cottonseed, canola, peanut, corn, olive, sunflower seed and walnuts, according to the American Heart Association. Make certain you get enough protein and iron in your meal plan because your hair is mainly comprised of protein, states the Mayo Clinic. Choose lean protein sources such as fish, skinless poultry, legumes and lean cuts of beef, lamb, veal and/or pork.
Hair Handling
Pay attention to how you are handling your hair. Cutting down on blow drying, using hair dryers and using curling irons can influence hair growth. Excessive heat causes hair damage, which is counterproductive to hair growth, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Allow your hair to dry naturally, at least part of the time. Protect your hair from sun damage by wearing a hat when you know you will be in the sun for a prolonged period of time. Stop using tight hairstyles including braids, buns or ponytails, according to the Mayo Clinic. Help your hair grow by gently brushing it instead of harshly pulling a brush through it. Untangle your newly shampooed hair with a wide-toothed comb to avoid breakage. Gently towel dry your hair after shampooing by letting your towel absorb the water. Stop damaging your hair by vigorously towel-drying it.
Scalp Circulation
Increase blood circulation to your scalp and hair follicles to help your hair grow, according to holisticonline.com. Giving yourself a daily scalp massage can help. Slowly massage your scalp in a circular motion with your knuckles, according to holisticonline.com. Aerobic activities will increase your blood circulation, according to the American Heart Association. For best results, obtain 30 minutes of moderately-brisk level exercise on at least five days of the week. Divide the 30 minutes into 10-minute increments throughout the day, if desired. Moderately brisk level increases your heart rate while allowing you to carry on a conversation. Examples include walking, rowing, bicycling, downhill or cross country skiing, dancing and everyday activities.
Stress Level
Uncontrolled stress levels can lead to hair loss, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Hair loss is counterproductive to hair growth. Controlling your stress level will help your hair grow, so choose a method or two that suits you. Positive thinking, improved time management skills, imagery, meditation, pet therapy and deep breathing exercises are stress reducing remedies you can use, according to holisticonline.com.
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