Long beautiful hair is the envy of many people. While some individuals seem to effortlessly grow shiny long locks, others struggle in vain to grow out their hair, only to experience dryness, dullness and breakage. Unless you have a medical condition that negatively affects the health of your hair, you may be able to grow longer, stronger hair by adopting some special care techniques that protect your hair as it grows.
Step 1
Cut away damaged hair. Split end shafts may continue to split upwards, damaging the healthier hair closer to your scalp. In addition, dry brittle hair may be more likely to catch in a comb or brush, pulling the entire hair shaft and causing further damage.
Step 2
Pay for a professional trim. Salon stylists use extremely sharp scissors to cut your hair, leaving clean cut ends that are not as prone to splitting as hair cut with dull scissors.
Step 3
Put away your blow dryer, heated rollers and straightening iron. Heat damages hair. If you must blow dry, wait until your hair is nearly dry and then finish drying it with cool air on the lowest setting.
Step 4
Treat wet hair with care. Use a gentle shampoo and follow with a detangling rinse. Pat wet hair dry instead of rubbing and do not wind hair up in a towel. Comb wet hair with a wide-tooth comb instead of a brush and work snarls out carefully without pulling.
Step 5
Style your hair without stretching it. Tight ponytails put too much stress on the hair. A natural bristle brush will distribute your hair's natural oils without snagging and tearing. Use soft headbands or loose braids to protect your hair from wind and snarls.
Step 6
Condition your hair deeply once a week after shampooing and rinse with cool water to smooth the hair's follicle. Your hair stylist can recommend a reconditioning product that will protect and smooth your hair.
Step 7
Protect your hair from environmental dangers, such as bright sunlight for extended periods, harsh swimming pool chemicals, saltwater and wind. Wash your hair soon after exposure to the elements and condition it. During the winter, your hair may need more frequent conditioning to keep it from becoming dry and brittle.
Step 8
Purchase a silk pillowcase to protect your hair as you sleep and braid your hair loosely at the top of your head to protect it from damage that may occur as you turn in your sleep. An old-fashioned sleeping cap offers additional protection.
Tips and Warnings
- See your doctor to rule out an underlying disorder if your hair is dry and brittle despite taking precautions. Try winding clean dry hair gently around soft rollers and spritz the rollers lightly with water, letting the hair dry on the rollers before removing for damage-free curls.
- Avoid all types of chemical hair treatments, including bleach, highlights, perms and chemical relaxers.
Things You'll Need
- Wide tooth comb
- Natural bristle brush
- Deep conditioner
- Silk pillowcase
Member Comments