Patience may be a virtue, but it is not a common one to have when growing out your hair. Although some new hairstyles changes take little time, going from short to long may seem like forever. Your hair requires certain nutrients, as well as adequate care, to grow long and luxurious. Although the rate of your hair growth depends on many factors, including your genetic makeup, you can help encourage the quickest growth possible and enhance the health and appearance of your hair.
Protect Your Locks
The roots form the only living part of your hair. Once your hair emerges from your scalp, it depends on you to keep it healthy. Make sure your hair grows quickly by reducing the possibility of breaking and fraying strands. Use gentle shampoos and conditioners to avoid stripping your hair of natural oils and to help protect your hair from the elements. Spray your hair with a thermal protector if you must use a blow dryer to dry your hair.
Exercise Caution
Chemical treatments and heated appliances can damage your hair, causing it to split, break and frizz. Encourage healthy hair growth by eliminating these caustic elements and practices. Avoid permanent waves, straightening solutions and harsh bleaches. Whenever possible, allow your hair to dry naturally, rather than using a blow dryer. If you must use a curling iron or straightening iron, turn the heat setting on low.
Styling Considerations
Use a gentle touch to style your growing locks. Avoid twisting and pulling your hair, especially when it is wet. Don’t pull your hair up in tight styles that create tension on the strands, such as ponytails and braids. Keep from breaking your hair by patting it dry after washing. Work the tangles out of your hair with a wide-toothed comb that easily slides through the strands.
Provide Nutrients
The Mayo Clinic recommends you eat a healthy diet, especially when trying to grow your hair. A well-balanced diet can provide important nutrients for healthy hair growth. Eat foods that include antioxidants, such as blueberries, cherries and tomatoes. Include foods that contain protein. Fish, eggs and cheese are all good sources of protein. Reduce your consumption of processed foods and those that contain trans-fatty acids, such as french fries, donuts, margarine and cookies. Cut back on coffee, alcohol and tobacco, while increasing your intake of plain water.
Photo Credit
- hair image by DXfoto.com from Fotolia.com
