9 Best Ways on How to Grow Your Hair Long
Every month, the average person’s hair only grows a quarter of an inch. Some individuals are blessed with hair that grows naturally faster, increasing at half an inch per month. For others, unfortunately, it seems like their hair just doesn’t want to grow at all. When hair is less than healthy, it grows even more slowly than average, which can be upsetting and unsatisfying.
Growing long hair can be an extensive journey, filled with many regular appointments with your hair salon along the way. This process will require time, ongoing maintenance, and a whole lot of patience until your hair reaches a long, free-flowing length. Fortunately, you can make small adjustments to your daily hair routine, which may help to accelerate the progress of your hair growth.
Here is a guide with the nine best activities on how to grow your hair long:
1. Brush your hair
If you want to grow your hair long, brushing is a necessity. Brushing your hair every day can help to spread out your natural oils, which will allow for your hair to repair and replenish itself. However, be mindful of when and how you brush your hair. It’s a better idea to brush dry hair, since wet hair can be particularly susceptible to breakage.
The hair brushing technique you use also matters. Contrary to how most people brush, you should actually start at the ends and work your way up to your scalp. Don’t forget to brush the bottom layer of your hair as well.
2. Rinse your hair with cool water
You probably already know that a hot bath or shower can lead to dry, itchy skin. What you might not know is that hot water can also be tough on your hair. When washing your hair, try to reduce the temperature and finish off the shower with a cool rinse. The cool water will help to seal and strengthen your hair’s cuticles, which assists with hair growth.
3. Get your hair trimmed
Technically, getting a haircut won’t make your hair grow any faster. However, your hairstylist will be able to perform regular maintenance that keeps your hair looking healthy. Often, hair just doesn’t seem to grow fast because of all the broken split ends at the bottom. When your hair is literally breaking at the ends, you can lose length and all the growing it does is for naught. Regular salon visits will ensure your hair grows at a steady, consistent pace.
4. Avoid heat exposure
If your daily haircare routine includes heat styling tools, it may be time to reconsider their usage. Every time you use a hairdryer, curling iron or flat iron, the excessive heat may be doing considerable damage to your hair and impeding on its natural growth. Try to use these styling tools less often. When you must use them, reduce the temperature and use a heat protectant to lower the risk of breakage.
5. Resist chemical treatments
In order to grow your hair long, you may want to hold off on applying certain chemical hair treatments for a while. Chemicals like bleach, which is often used to dye your hair blonde, may damage the cuticles of the hair. These chemical treatments can ultimately lead to breakages and split ends. Although your hair will continue to grow at the roots, the overall length will be limited due to the damaged condition of your hair.
6. Shampoo less often
When you are growing your hair long, try to ditch the daily shampoo. Using too much shampoo may remove the moisture from your hair, making it more vulnerable to split ends and breakages. All your hair truly needs is shampoo two or three times a week. This schedule allows the natural oils to penetrate your hair at a more effective pace. Plus, your hair will remain more hydrated when it isn’t being shampooed on a daily basis.
7. Sleep on a silk pillowcase
As your hair grows longer, sleeping becomes more of a challenge. Every time you toss and turn in your sleep, you may end up with these annoying knots in your long hair, which could lead to breakages. For better hair protection, consider investing in a silk pillowcase. Silk is gentler on hair, enabling you to reduce the knots and tangles during your beauty sleep.
8. Feed your hair with nutrients
A balanced diet has a significant impact on how your hair grows. Certain foods are known to promote hair growth and reduce shedding, such as protein. Try upping your protein intake by eating more whole grains, beans, fish, and nuts. Similarly, foods high in Omega-3 fatty acids, iron, and zinc can also contribute to healthier hair growth.
9. Use hair growth vitamins
If you don’t think you’re getting all the suggested nutrients for maximum hair growth, consider taking vitamins. Your body needs regular consumption of vitamins A, C, D and E for steady, consistent hair growth. You may also benefit from supplements with folic acid and biotin, which can help with faster hair growth as well.