Naturally, long hair is said to be the most desirable style among around the world, with almost all of us saying that we have tried to grow our hair long at one stage or another. Our hair grows around six inches each year, which might sound like quite a lot, but when you consider trims and also breakage, it can take quite some time to get some decent length to your hair.
Hair care is key when it comes to growing and looking after long hair. Here’s a few tips to encourage growth, and create glossy and healthy long hair…
Avoid over washing
A healthy scalp is key to growing strong and healthy hair. This means avoiding stripping your scalp of its natural oils too often, as they are essential to hair growth. Aim to wash your hair no more than two-three times per week, to allow your scalp and roots to benefit from the oils that are produced naturally.
Use the right brush
Using the wrong brush for your hair could cause damage and breakage, which is going on long-term will make growing your hair tricky. Choose a wide-tooth comb, or a brush that’s specifically designed to detangle – GHD is great for high-quality brushes that are kind to your hair. When it comes to getting knots out of your hair while causing the least damage, start at the bottom and work the knots out as you move up towards your parting.
Stay hydrated
Hydration is key to hair health, and one of the best ways that you can encourage hair growth is by staying well hydrated. Try and drink at least two litres of water each day. It can be easy to not drink enough when we’re on the go a lot – if this is the case, make sure you always have a bottle of water with you wherever you go, by investing in a reusable bottle.
Prevent breakage while you sleep
Did you know that you can damage your hair while you sleep? A lot of breakage can occur at night, especially if you move around quite a lot as you sleep. Try investing in a silk pillowcase to reduce this, or protect your hair by putting in a loose plait before you go to sleep.
Avoid heat styling where possible
While you’re trying to grow your hair and once your hair is nice and long, keep heat styling to a minimum as this will cause dryness, damage and breakage. This means reducing use of hair dryers, straighteners and curling tongs. Try alternative ways to styling your hair, such as rollers or by plaiting when damp, and when you do style your hair, use a good quality heat protector, such as brilliant damage control by Aveda.
Just a few tweaks to your routine will help you achieve long, strong and healthy hair. Don’t forget to have your split ends trimmed every 3-6 months, to avoid damaged hair that can split up the length.
