The only thing more frustrating than waiting for it to be Friday already is waiting for your hair to grow longer. We may not have found the secret formula that would help you grow out mega sized afros overnight (and trust me when I say that we’re still searching). However, we have the next best thing: Some nutrition, and styling advice to help your hair grow. While most of the tips are well known and easy to achieve, some other tips may actually surprise you.
So, here are six tips to help your natural hair grow longer and stronger:
Put some work into your lifestyle
Research shows that the health of your hair and nails can paint a general picture of your overall health. If your hair has split ends or is breaking, or your nails are in rough shape and don’t seem to be growing, then it’s probably as a result of your overall diet. Your diet plays a pivotal role in how your hair and nails look. Hair is highly sensitive to stress, diet, medications, hormones and especially smoking.
The intake of vitamins such as: Vitamin B, Folate and Biotin also help to leave you with healthier hair and nails. Vitamin B6 is present in vegetables like broccoli, kale, brussel sprouts, and other cruciferous types. B12 is usually found in dairy and animal products such as fish, and also in cereals. Foods like berries, lentils, and whole grains contain folate, while avocado, peanuts, walnuts, salmon, and almonds are foods rich in biotin.
Reduce the Usage of Birth Control Pills
While birth control pills are essential for a lot of women, they can also be harmful to your health, and by extension, your hair. Research shows that the pill could be depleting your hair’s supply of Vitamin B. So if you’re on the pill, it’s necessary to take supplements regularly so as to ensure your hair stays healthy.
Take Supplements and Vitamins
Apart from your required diet, other supplements can be taken to boost and fortify your hair growth. Hair specialists could help you recommend the type that suits your particular hair type. Some of these supplements are formulated to promote hair growth. But if you’re looking for a more natural route to getting more voluminous hair, multivitamins should be your best friend. They have a little bit of everything necessary to keep your body strong and healthy. Supplements like biotin help prevent your hair from becoming prematurely gray, and it stimulates circulation in the scalp which also promotes the growth of healthier hair.
Keep a Close Watch on your Maintenance Routine
Alongside good nutrition and supplements, some basic changes in how you maintain your hair daily can increase your chances of longer and healthier hair. Excessive heat and the use of chemical treatments by a non-professional can result in the irreversible damage of your hair. Also, avoid leaving any hair weaves sewn in longer than three months. And when you are using a leave-in conditioner on the hair at home, always follow the instructions to the letter, and wash it out when it states you should. Do not surpass the prescribed time on the label.
Visit your Hair Stylist Frequently
Try to see your hair stylist as often as possible for regular touch-ups and trims. Hair grows more quickly when it is cut or trimmed more frequently. If you leave it for too long before cutting it, the ends of the hair will break off and cause the hair to be shorter.
Reduce Use of Protein-based Products
Reduce the amount of protein based products you use o your hair. While protein helps to make the hair stronger, too much of it can cause breakage. It’s advisable to moisten the hair regularly while using the protein supplements. Use more protein for hair that is being chemically treated.
Also use a good strengthening conditioner or shampoo together with a protein treatment or intense moisture mask once every week.
So there you have it, try out these six tips for a healthier looking mane!
Photo Credit: Madam Noire
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