How to grow black hair long

Although many people believe that hair length is mostly genetic and nothing can be done to increase growth, these simple steps are guaranteed to help you maximise the potential of your hair. Hair grows an average of 6inches yearly. We must emphasis that consistency and commitment are essential. Give your hair at least 3 months to see improvements. If you have kinky hair, it may take longer to see any improvement in length unless you straighten your hair. You should however feel that your hair is stronger and thicker. Before you read these steps, please read :

Enemies of black hair growth

Okay, so if black hair grows at the same rate as other hair, why is it still not as long as Caucasian or Asian hair? Here is a list of what you might be doing wrong. We promise you will see a dramatic change in the health of your hair once you note and avoid all the things listed... Read the rest

1. Record your current length

This is essential in helping you to keep track of your growth as it can sometimes be hard to notice new growth. Take pictures of your current hair length, record the date and keep it save. You may want to buy a journal or diary for this.

2. Set yourself a goal

“Hair must be visibly thicker in 3 months” is an example of a great goal. Having a goal pushes you to achieve better. Set yourself a goal and record it in your diary

3. Wash your hair

Yes, we have to mention this. There is a circulating myth that black hair should not be washed regularly because it thrives in dirt (unbelievable? yes we know!). It is true that excessive washing can cause black hair to dry out but this has been taken too far! Some women have admitted to washing their hair only once a month. Gross! Black hair should be washed with shampoo at least twice a week. More than 3 washes a week with shampoo may lead to drying.

4. Condition your hair

Washing and conditioning go hand in hand. You should never wash your hair without conditioning your hair afterwards. If your hair is feeling extra dry, use a conditioner for dry hair. You may also choose to co-wash (washing with conditioner) your hair in between your shampoo washes. You do not need to use shampoo when co-washing your hair (our article on co-washing is coming soon). Regular conditioning will make a great difference to your hair.

5. Moisturise your hair

After washing and conditioning, moisturise your hair. We cannot stress this enough. Moisture is very important to black hair. Buy a great water-based moisturiser that contains essential oils. Castor oil mixed with water is also a great moisturiser. Moisturise the whole length of your hair EVERYDAY. Hair grease is NOT a moisturiser. We will be posting recommended hair moisturisers soon.

6. Protect your hair

To prevent unnecessary combing and fidgeting (which breaks your hair), put your hair in a protective style. This can be braids, sew-in weave, a wig or just putting your hair up in a bun. This will minimise stress on your hair and help with the growth. When combing your hair, comb gently and take time to detangle any knots. When getting braids or plaits, make sure they are not too tight. Tight braids does not grow hair. It can rather cause traction alopecia. Also when going to bed, wear a silk or satin scarf/bonnet to help protect your ends even more. When your hair is in protective mode, carry on with your normal washing, conditioning and moisturising. If you are getting extensions, you may want to use human hair to prevent tangles when washing.

7. Read the label

Before you go on a shopping spree for new hair products keep in mind what you are looking for. Look for hair products with vegetable protein, jojoba oil, keratin, biotin, glycerin, amino acids, avocados and other natural ingredients. These are the best for your hair. Always read the label. Try to avoid too many products containing petroleum or mineral oil. They are what hair grease is made of and they will clog your pores.

8. Inside out care

Since your hair grows from inside your head, what you put inside you matters to the health of your hair. For healthy and strong hair, you need to eat nutritious food, lots of vegetables and fruits. Drinking lots of water will help too.

9. Alleviate stress

When you are stressed, your hair is stressed. Stress causes your hair to thin and eventually fall out. When you feel like stress is on its way, take some time out to relax. Exercise helps with stress and also helps your blood circulation and this boost the nutrients that reach your hair.

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