If it seems like your hair just isn't growing as quickly as you'd like, look no further than your hair care routine. And then try these pro-recommended tips to get longer, stronger hair in no time.
1. Get frequent trims — yes, really.
It may seem counterintuitive, but if you want long hair that's actually healthy, you need to get regular trims. While haircuts don't make your hair grow any faster, they get rid of split ends that break your hair. Eliminating the breakage gives the appearance that your hair is growing faster." After all, a split end that breaks can lead to your hair losing length — not to mention shine, volume, and smoothness.
2. Spread the wealth that is your hair's natural oil.
Going to bed with unbrushed hair may seem tempting when you're tired, but giving your hair a few quick strokes can be great for its health. "Starting at the scalp, use a boar bristle brush to distribute your scalp's oils evenly onto your hair so it stays naturally moisturized," recommends our senior colorist and hair educator. Bonus: This simple step each night helps increase circulation, which helps make your scalp healthier. Which leads us to…
3. Keep your scalp healthy.
Think of your hair like a tree: If the soil and roots aren't taken care of, the tree can't grow tall and solid. Hair growth starts with a healthy scalp. When you cleanse and treat your scalp with healthy ingredients, you product strong, beautiful hair." If you're not sure how healthy your hair is, We recommend doing a "root lift test": At the crown of your head, hold up a section of your hair. Healthy hair should be the same thickness root to end, but if your ends are thinner, it's time to rethink your haircare regimen.
4. Start from the inside by eating the right foods.
Having long, strong hair doesn't just depend on which products you put on your hair, it also depends on what you put into your body. To promote hair growth, you need to 'feed' the hair from the inside. Try increasing your protein intake with foods like fish, beans, nuts, and whole gains." If you're not a meat-lover, be sure to maintain a diet high in protein — A close doctor friend of mine made me aware that women who don't get enough of it often experience more shedding.
5. Stop abusing it with heat styling tools.
The biggest culprit that's ruining your hair: damage from hot tools. "Stop over-styling your hair," If you must use heat we recommend decreasing the temperature and always using a heat protectant — otherwise, you risk damaging your locks, leading to breakage and frizz.
6. Skip the daily shampoo.
Good news: Your hair care routine just got a whole lot simpler. By now, you've likely heard all the testimonials attributing great hair to going "no 'poo," but do you know why it actually helps your hair? "Shampooing your hair two to three times a every couple weeks is a generally rule for African American women. This allows your natural oils to penetrate your hair, allowing it to hydrate and repair itself." But just be sure not to let too much buildup occur — It can lead to a surplus of oil, itching, and dandruff.
7. Add a vitamin to your morning routine.
If your diet isn't supplying you with enough nutrition, a supplement could make a world of difference. Look for a multivitamin that's formulated and labeled For Hair, Skin, and Nails. Those contain important vitamins like biotin, vitamin C, and B vitamins that support hair health. Bonus: You'll get better skin in the process!
8. Finish your shower with a cool rinse.
A super steamy shower isn't just bad for your skin— it's also rough on your hair. Turn the water temperature down when cleansing. And rinse with cool water to help seal the cuticle and strengthen your hair before styling it."
9. Stop doing trendy "cleanses."
Diet companies may try to convince you that a "cleanse" will turn your whole life around, but we strongly advises against them. "Doing a cleanse is terrible for your hair because you're depriving your body of nutrients. After doing a cleanse even for a week, you'll notice slower hair growth and lackluster locks."
10. Sleep on a silk pillowcase.
Getting better hair in your sleep is possible — all you need is to switch up your pillowcase. Silk is easier on hair — it helps avoid tangles and breakage. The less breakage your hair experiences, the longer your locks will be.
One of our clients was kind enough to share her results below.
