Long hair is undoubtedly very sensual. It enhances the beauty of a woman and makes her look more feminine and attractive. But how easy is it to grow long, healthy-looking hair? You’ve certainly heard women say that their hair stops growing once it reaches a certain length. The truth is that hair keeps growing from the root but because it is breaking off from the bottom due to split ends, it is not getting longer.
So, if you are interested in getting long hair, remember: you need to take care of it and keep it healthy. In this article you will learn tips and tricks to grow your hair faster and longer.
Do’s and Don’ts for healthy hair growth
Don’t wash your hair every day. Washing your hair too often can strip it from its natural oils, leaving it dull, dry and prone to breaking. It is recommended to wash your hair every two to three days.
Use the right shampoo for your hair type. Your hair is like your skin, having a type and specific needs. Dry hair needs extra moisture, damaged hair needs reconstruction, frizzy hair needs hydration and wavy hair needs more volume, etc. Try to identify your hair type and understand your hair needs and choose the right products.
Don’t wash your hair with hot water. Instead use warm or lukewarm water when you take a bath or shower. Hot water removes the natural oils from your scalp and causes dry skin and dehydration. It can even cause various dermatological problems and conditions, such as irritations, redness, itchiness and dandruff.
Use castor oil. It has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal properties thanks to its high ricin oleic acid content. Apply on hair for restructure, glow, protection, extra volume and density. You can also apply on the scalp and gently massage. Castor oil can deeply penetrate the stratum corneum – the outermost layer of the skin and thus it’s ideal for the cleansing and deep care of the skin. Additionally, massaging with castor oil boosts blood circulation, promoting hair growth, and treating dandruff.
Don’t comb wet hair. Combing or brushing wet hair can cause breakage and you‘d better avoid it. If you still want to do it, be cautious and use the right tools. Use a wide-toothed comb or a brush specifically created to detangle wet hair. Avoid plastic brushes and opt for a natural brush that will distribute evenly the natural oils from your scalp all the way along the shaft.
Don’t rub your hair with the towel. Wet hair is more vulnerable and prone to breakage. Rough-drying with a bath towel may cause damage (breakage, split ends) and frizz. Instead gently squeeze it and let it air dry.
Use a conditioner every time you wash your hair. It will help you detangle your hair, avoiding damage and leave your hair soft and silky.
Avoid the use of styling tools, and if not possible, try to use as little as possible. The excessive heat dries out the moisture from your strands and makes your hair dry, so always apply a heat protectant first.
Don’t forget to use a hair mask. Apply a hair mask 1-2 per week. Hair masks deeply moisturize the hair and provide all the necessary nutrients, strengthening the hair and increasing its elasticity.
Wear a hat and a sun protection product for hair, especially during summertime to protect your hair and scalp from the sun. Spending too much time in the sun without protection, weakens the hair and makes it dull and lifeless. High temperatures also dehydrate your skin and hair, making it more prone to damage.
Let your hair rest for a while. Avoid coloring your hair for some months. Harsh chemicals contained in hair dyes, can damage your hair, making it fragile and brittle. Remember: the goal is not only having long but healthy hair as well.
Don’t pull your hair tight very often. You should avoid ponytails, buns and braids because if you constantly pull your hair too tight, it will eventually break. You will damage your hair follicles, resulting in severe hair loss. Instead, leave your hair loose or opt for hair styles that don’t put too much tension on the hair.
Massage your scalp. Put some hair oil on your scalp and massage really well to stimulate blood flow. Then apply it to your hair and gently rub it into the ends. Regular scalp massages keep your roots and scalp moisturized, and reduce dryness, itchiness, irritations and dandruff. In addition, when you apply oil directly on the scalp, it gets deeply absorbed and nourishes your hair follicles, making the hair stronger and promoting hair growth.
Follow a healthy lifestyle. Provide your body with vitamins, proteins and minerals to supply hair with all nutrients it needs to remain strong and healthy. Quit bad habits like smoking and drinking too much alcohol and start exercising.
Replace your cotton pillowcase with a silk one. Cotton absorbs the natural oils and hydration from your hair and scalp and make your hair rough and frizzy. Silk prevents the formation of comps and leaves your hair hydrated and smooth.
