Techniques For Growing Black Hair

Your scalp has between 100,000 to 150,000 follicles that produce hair individually or in units of up to four hairs, according to the Bernstein Medical Center for Hair Restoration. At any given time, about 90 percent of your hair is growing, while the other 10 percent is resting. Poor grooming techniques and products that cause hair breakage can make it seem as though your hair isn't growing. Improving your hair care routine will keep hair healthy and stimulate growth.

Gentle Shampooing

Scrubbing your scalp and hair during the shampooing process causes unnecessary damage. Shampoo is really for your scalp, but it has a pH designed to not ruin your hair, explains, A. Dickey, author of "Hair Rules! The Ultimate Hair-Care Guide for Women with Kinky, Curly or Wavy Hair." Shampooing too often or for too long dries out your hair. Also, scratching the scalp damages your scalp and follicles. Instead, use a mild shampoo and gently rub your scalp with your fingertips---not your nails. Gently work the shampoo through your hair without twisting or wringing your hair. Use the product as directed; for instance, if it recommends two washes, don't do three.

Proper Conditioning

Black hair is naturally very dry, which makes it likely to break. Chemical relaxers also dry out hair and increase breakage. Choosing the right conditioner and learning how to use it properly will moisturize and protect your hair. Pamela Ferrell, author of "Let's Talk Hair," recommends using conditioners with natural oils in black hair. She also points out that a good conditioner disappears in your hands when you rub them together. You should also use a deep conditioner once a week. According to Ferrell, when used with heat or steam, deep conditioners penetrate through the cuticle layer of your hair to nourish and strengthen hair.

Trimming

Whether your hair is natural or relaxed, it's inevitable that split ends will develop. Split ends break your hair; left uncut, they travel up the hair shaft and break your hair at even shorter lengths. Trimming your hair is the best way to get rid of split ends. However, it's best to consult a professional hairstylist to have your hair trimmed properly.

Natural Styling

Products such as relaxers, dyes and styling gels or mousses that leave hair stiff are leading causes of hair breakage, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Heat styling implements such as flat irons, blow dryers and hot combs also make hair drier and more likely to break. As much as possible, opt for natural hairdos. But, keep in mind that if you braid or cornrow your hair, don't pull at the hair or braid too tightly because it will harm your scalp and break your hair.