Frustrated with slow growth and expensive miracle remedies that don’t work?
Natural hair growth is a gradual process influenced by genetics, nutrition, and hair care practices. While there's no magic solution for instant length, adopting a consistent, science-backed approach can help you achieve healthier, longer hair over time.
Here’s what we’ve learned about hair growth from a lifetime of being in the haircare and styling biz.
How Fast Does Hair Grow?
On average, scalp hair grows about 1 to 1.7 centimetres per month, which is about 12 to 20 centimetres annually. This rate can vary based on factors like age, genetics, and overall health. It's important to note that while you can't significantly accelerate the natural growth rate, you can optimise conditions to support healthy hair growth - and that’s what we’re talking about today.
Strategies to Support Natural Hair Growth
1. Prioritise Scalp Health
A healthy scalp is the foundation for hair growth. Regularly cleanse your scalp with a gentle, sulphate-free shampoo to remove buildup and maintain a balanced environment. Incorporating ingredients like argan oil and shea butter can provide additional nourishment.
2. Maintain a Nutrient-Rich Diet
Your hair reflects your overall nutrition. Ensure your diet includes:
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Protein: Essential for keratin production. Sources include eggs, fish, and legumes (to be eaten, not rubbed into your hair like some unhinged TikTok craze).
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Iron and Zinc: Supports hair follicle health. Found in spinach, lentils, and nuts.
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Vitamins A, C, D, and E: Promote scalp health and hair strength. Present in fruits, vegetables, and fortified foods.
(If you suspect any nutritional deficiencies or have any preexisting health conditions, always consult your GP before taking any supplements).
3. Minimise Heat and Chemical Exposure
We sell hairdryers, so we’re probably the last people you’d expect to hear advocating for less heat styling. But we care about your hair, and excessive heat and chemical treatments can weaken hair strands, leading to breakage.
So go easy on the hot tools, and always apply a heat protectant. Opt for natural hairstyles and avoid tight ponytails or braids that can cause tension on the scalp.
4. Regular Trims
While it might seem counterintuitive, trimming your hair every 6 to 8 weeks helps eliminate split ends, preventing further breakage and promoting healthier growth.
We’ve got a whole guide to getting rid of split ends (including some dos and don'ts) you might want to take a look at.
5. Gentle Hair Care Practices
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Avoid Over-Washing: Washing your hair too frequently can strip it of natural oils. Aim for 2 to 3 times a week max, depending on your hair type.
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Use a Wide-Tooth Comb: Detangle your hair gently, starting from the ends and working your way up to prevent breakage.
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Sleep on Silk: Silk pillowcases and satin bonnets reduce friction, decreasing hair breakage during sleep. Also, helpful for avoiding that dreaded morning frizz.
6. Stay Hydrated and Manage Stress
Hydration is crucial for overall health, including hair vitality. Aim for around 8 glasses of water daily. Additionally, chronic stress can disrupt the hair growth cycle - a great excuse to introduce stress-reducing activities like meditation, exercise, or mindful hobbies into your routine.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
There’s a lot of advice out there, and a lot of misinformation too. These are a few common pitfalls to avoid when you’re trying to grow out your hair:
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Over-manipulation: Frequent styling and handling can lead to breakage; aim for low-manipulation routines.
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Skipping trims: Regular trims help prevent split ends from travelling up the hair shaft, preserving length.
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Applying oil to dry hair: Oils seal in moisture but don't provide it; always apply oils after moisturising with water or a leave-in conditioner.
FAQs
Can scalp massages promote hair growth?
Scalp massages can increase blood circulation to the hair follicles, potentially supporting hair growth. Incorporate gentle massages into your routine a few times a week.
Do hair growth supplements actually work?
When reading the advertised benefits of any herbal or vitamin product, it’s always wise to take it with a healthy dose of scepticism! There’s a lot of snake oil out there…
Supplements can be beneficial if you have specific nutritional deficiencies. However, they can be expensive and might cause unwanted side effects. Proceed with caution and if you’re worried about anything at all, consult a healthcare professional first.
How long does it take to see noticeable hair growth?
Given the average growth rate, you might notice a difference in length after 3 to 4 months of consistent care. Remember, patience and consistency are key.
By focusing on your overall health, gentle hair care practices, and maintaining a balanced diet, you can create
