Hair already grows at a very slow pace, about 1 to 2 cm per month. It will grow even more slowly due to certain factors such as harmful styling techniques and poor diet. By understanding what can stunt hair growth, you may be able to take steps to increase the rate your hair grows.
Clogged Hair Follicles
Hair can be divided into different parts. The hair follicle is found on your scalp, which is where your hair grows from. Inside the hair follicle is the bulb-shaped root of your hair, according to KidsHealth.org. The root is the beginning of the hair shaft, which is a single strand of hair. The hair follicle is where hair growth begins as blood carries essential nutrients to your hair. Dry, dead, flaky skin cells from your scalp can build up, causing a hair follicle to clog. Certain styling products such as gels, mousse, hairspray and conditioners can also clog a hair follicle. When these follicles become clogged, it can stunt hair growth. Shampoo regularly to ensure all hair follicles are clean and do not become clogged.
Malnutrition
A diet lacking essential vitamins, minerals and other nutrients can impede hair growth, according to the MedlinePlus. Both your body and hair need nutrients to grow and survive. Malnutrition can result from digestion problems, certain medical conditions and from self-inflicted starvation such as an eating disorder. Without vital nutrients, you may experience fainting, hair loss, hair growth retardation and lack of menstruation. By eating a healthy, balanced diet, you can avoid all of these side effects and restore hair growth.
Hair Disorders
Hair growth occurs in cycles, starting at the hair follicle. Certain hair disorders can stunt hair growth. Androgenic alopecia is a hair disorder affecting hair follicles. Androgenic alopecia can affect both men and women. Minoxodil, sold over-the-counter, is an effective treatment for this type of hair disorder, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Cicatricial alopecias typically results in permanent hair loss. Cicatricial alopecias destroys hair follicles completely and does not allow hair regrowth. Once a hair follicle becomes destroyed, no new hair can grow back in its place; unfortunately, there is no treatment for this type of hair disorder. Tinea capitis, a fungal infection that affects the scalp, can stunt hair growth. Tinea capitis can result in hair loss and partial breakage in hair shafts. An antifungal medication is typically used to treat this hair disorder, although severe cases may also warrant the use of steroids to fight the infection.
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