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| long healthy hair |
Have you been trying to grow your hair long for years but end up cutting it all off again when all you seem to grow is a length of dead, ratty hair? Well it doesn't have to be that way if you care for your hair properly with these simple guidelines and tips straight from the hair salon.
Many people believe that growing their hair is a difficult process requiring major effort every day, when really it comes down to a healthy approach and maintenance of a reasonable level, no need for hundreds of products.
The first thing to understand is that growing your hair is more than just putting conditioner in it a few times week, hair growth and its quality is a direct result of lifestyle. Just like anything to do with the body, if you eat poorly and live a harmful lifestyle, this will be reflected in your skin, eyes and hair. In terms of hair, this is known as stunting your anagen phase of hair growth which can also be affected by too much product use and bad styling/washing.
A person's hair should grow at a rate of around half an inch a month or so although truly healthy hair can grow faster than that. So there are two key approaches to strong hair growth: inside and topical.
As far as treating it from the inside I'm afraid it is the same as having healthy anything - be healthy! Start with solid exercise, plenty of sleep and a good diet as this will do wonders for future hair growth. Also try to reduce stress as the hair follicles are some of the first areas to suffer as a result of stress - often causing hair to fall out. Talking vitamins such as Biotin, B vitamins, Vitamin C and D will also do wonders for your new hair growth, adding strength to the roots.
As far as topical treatments, always start a new 'hair growing' plan with a cut. This may sound counterproductive but start with a clean slate and get rid of all damaged locks, as this will make your hair appear far healthier. Follow up this initial cut with regular trims every 6 weeks or so. Give yourself frequent scalp massages to promote circulation in the area and stronger hair growth.
Do Not:
Brush too regularly or vigorously as this will strip the hair and cause it to break
Avoid strong chemical shampoos - natural shampoos are better as they won't strip the hair of the good natural oils while reducing negative effects such as frizzing and flyaways
Try not to dye your hair, it may look better at first, but dyeing your hair will permanently damage your hair. This especially refers to peroxides and perms.
Try not to have the water too hot when you shower, it will weaken the hair and open the pores of your scalp, encouraging hair loss