There are few things that can set off your style like a mane of long, healthy hair. Unfortunately, the average adult roughly grows only half an inch of hair per month. There are no reliable ways to make your hair grow faster than its genetically predetermined rate. You can, however, help your hair grow to its maximum potential at a consistent rate.
Trim Your Ends
Trimming the ends of your hair might seem counterproductive to growing it longer, but starting with healthy ends is essential. It is ideal to trim away all damage from the hair prior to actively growing it longer. This may result in some minor or significant initial loss of hair length, but your ends will stay in better condition longer. When trimming your hair at home, always use a pair of sharp hair shears and only use them for hair trimming. Trim in small sections until all hair damage is removed, then follow with a deep conditioning treatment.
Massage Your Scalp
According to the website Daily Glow, massaging the scalp is an effective way to help boost circulation and nourishment to the hair follicles. Scalp massages are most effective for promoting hair growth when they are performed at least once per week. Start at your temples and use your fingers to make small circular motions on your scalp. Only use the pads of your fingers for scalp massages. Don't massage your scalp if you're experiencing any scalp irritation. If you experience discomfort or tension during the scalp massage, adjust how much pressure you're using. The scalp should only be gently moved, never tugged or pulled, during the scalp massage.
Moisturize
Keeping your hair adequately hydrated is key to promoting hair growth and retaining length. According to the website Long Hair, dry hair is vulnerable to breakage and damage, so always condition your hair after a shampoo or during dry, cold weather. Depending on your hair type, you may choose to use conditioner in place of shampoo to help your hair retain more moisture. Coconut and olive oil can also be applied to the last few inches of your hair to help keep the ends moisturized and in good condition. When your ends are well-hydrated and maintained, there will be visible gains in length.
Nourish Your Hair
How rapidly your hair grows is largely dependent on genetic factors, but how well you nourish your body can also have a significant role. Your hair is most likely to grow at its fullest potential when you regularly provide your body with nutrients that are important for hair growth. Your hair relies on nutrients like protein, B vitamins, zinc and iron to maintain an optimal growth and replacement rate. The Center for Disease Control recommends that healthy adults consume between 46 and 56 g of protein daily for bone, skin and hair rejuvenation, growth and health.
Considerations
It's important to note that trimming, alone, doesn't encourage your hair to grow longer or faster. Your hair care techniques will play a part in determining how quickly you see gains in hair length. If you are not properly maintaining the health of your ends, they will eventually split or break off. This will make growing your hair longer an uphill battle. Do your best to keep the ends of your hair protected from exposure to heated styling appliances of weather extremes to help retain hair length. Avoid the use of harsh chemical hair treatments.
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