Keratin and dead skin cells are the two main components of which human hair is made up of. While researchers have yet to find a way for hair to grow faster, there are ways and means to keep your hair healthy and long and prevent breakage.
That said, having a healthy fuzz on your head requires a healthy body, healthy habits and above all a healthy scalp.To find out how to create the optimal conditions for hair growth along with some products which can be of help, read on.
Massage your scalp
While there is no magic cure that can make hair grow faster in a week, regular massage of the scalp will certainly increase the supply of blood to the hair follicles and create the desired foundation in that much time, especially if paired with the right oils.
Dermatologists recommend pairing a head massage with any of the following oils:
- Coconut oil: Applying coconut oil prevents the free radicals from damaging the hair and at the same time acts like an antifungal and antimicrobial agent.
- Jojoba oil: Also has antifungal properties, is rich in vitamin E and hair strengthening omega 6 and 9 fatty acids.
- Rosemary oil: studies have shown that rosemary oil is as effective as 2.5% minoxidil for hair growth.
Shampoo correctly
Dirt can make your hair follicles hard and brittle so wash hair with lukewarm water, but exercise excessive rinsing as it could be detrimental to hair growth. Chemicals in shampoos bought in stores can be counterproductive so pick a stimulating shampoo which is sulphate free for regular use.
Trim regularly
The growth of human hair goes through these following stages:
- Antigen: This is the active stage of growth when the cells at the root of the hair begin dividing. Scalp hair remains in this stage for 2-6 years.
- Catagen: Growth stops and outer root sheath shrinks.
- Telogen: Split ends and hair thinning start in this stage.
Trimming hair regularly by half to one inch will let you avoid the third stage and boost hair growth.
Try a rice water rinse
This trick has originated in a Chinese village where the women have earned a name in the Guinness Book of World Records for the longest tresses. Using rice water on hair is an age-old Asian secret, so don’t discard it into the sink because the amino acids and carbohydrates present in it will help the hair gain volume and protect it from damage.
Comb gently
Use the right hand tools, like boar bristle brushes, to comb your hair as they don’t tear the hair. Natural bristles will stimulate scalp circulation whenever you use them. Brush your hair before shampoo and do not comb when wet.
Avoid smoking
Many might not consider this an important reason but smoking has been known to cause hair breakage. Smoking restricts the blood flow to the hair follicles which in turn restricts the supply of nutrients to the scalp for keeping the hair healthy.