Slow-growing hair can be caused by a number of factors. Heredity plays a prominent role in the rate of hair growth, as does nutrition, general health, and the condition of your hair. Chemicals can affect hair condition, such as harsh shampoos, permanent or straightening solutions or hair styling products, making hair dry and prone to breakage and slowing its growth. While there is nothing that can be done about the affect of genetics, some of these other factors can be addressed to maximize the growth potential of your hair.
Step 1
Treat hair gently. Use mild shampoos and conditioners that will not strip natural oils from your hair and minimize the use of styling products that contain alcohol and other harsh chemicals. If you perm, dye or straighten your hair, give it a break from that harsh treatment, which can cause damage and breakage. Avoid hair dryers, curling irons and other heat-generating styling tools to improve the condition of the hair. Use a wide-toothed comb to gently remove tangles from wet hair rather than a brush, as brushing can stretch and weaken wet hair, making it more prone to breakage.
Step 2
Give your hair a hot oil treatment once or twice a week. If your hair is dry and brittle, a hot oil treatment can help replace that lost moisture, improving hair strength and condition to minimize breakage. According to Hair Boutique, natural oils, like olive or jojobo oils, are good hair and scalp conditioners. Gently massage some of that oil into your scalp during hot oil treatments to stimulate blood circulation to the hair follicles.
Step 3
Have hair trimmed frequently to remove split ends. Split ends can promote hair breakage, causing your hair to break off as quickly as it grows, ruining any progress in growing out the hair.
Step 4
Eat right. Good nutrition is important to hair growth. Including wholesome foods in your diet that are rich in hair-friendly nutrients can encourage hair growth. Protein, iron, and zinc are nutrients that support scalp health and hair growth, as are vitamins A, B,C, D, and E. While these nutrients can be very good for hair, be wary of mega-doses of vitamin supplements, as some vitamins can actually cause hair loss when taken at extreme dosages. Steer clear of crash diets, as rapid weight loss can affect the growth rate and condition of hair, according to DailyGlow.
Things You'll Need
- hair oil
- wholesome foods
- gentle hair care products
Member Comments