One of the first things people notice when they look at you is your hair. Having long hair is something many women of color desire but may not feel is possible. While it can take time, long hair is very attainable. The American Academy of Dermatology says hair grows about 1/2 inch per month, a rate that slows with age, and that the hair cycle runs from two to six years. The key is to take care of the hair you already have--protect it from damage to retain length, which will result in longer hair.
Step 1
Avoid using too much heat. Styling appliances such as pressing combs, curling irons and blow-dryers can be very damaging. Your hair is a fiber that consists of three layers. The composition of the hair strand is changed by the amount of heat applied to it, causing dryness and brittleness. This can ultimately lead to breakage and split ends.
Step 2
Deep condition your hair after every shampoo. Shampoo can strip away essential oils from the hair, which can cause dryness. Deep conditioners restore moisture. Choose those that contain jojoba oil, shea butter, olive oil or dimethicone; this is key to retaining length.
Step 3
Apply deep conditioning thoroughly to all sections from roots to ends. It is best to leave it on for 20 to 30 minutes, or even overnight. Use heat by sitting under a dryer while wearing a plastic cap or wrapping a warm towel around your head.
Step 4
Do not manipulate your hair too much. Excessive combing and brushing can cause split ends and breakage. Your hair is delicate and should be treated and handled with care.
Step 5
Apply a moisturizer that has water listed as the first ingredient, and is oil-free. A dime-sized amount is all that is need for shoulder length hair.
Step 6
Seal the moisture in by applying a light natural oil such as coconut oil. Use the oil sparingly.
Step 7
Get your hair trimmed whenever you notice split ends. This will prevent the split from traveling too far up the hair shaft.
Tips and Warnings
- Try protective styles such as buns, braid-outs, braids or wigs to give your hair a break. Use conditioner to wash your hair instead of shampoo to prevent dryness.
- Do not add oil to your hair if you are going to style with heat after-wards.
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