How long does it take for hair to grow? There are a lot of different places and ways to grow hair. We have hair growing out of every part of our bodies except the soles of the feet and palms of the hands, lips, and over scar tissues formed as a result of previous injuries. Hair is made up of multiple layers of flat cells that provide structure and strength to it.
A protein called keratin makes up hair and stimulates hair growth. When the hair is growing, it follows a cycle with three phases.
The hair growing on our body is different from one another depending on the location and the purpose it serves. Although, how to grow them doesn’t differ much. Most of the longest and thickest hair develops on our scalps and faces.
In case you are wondering, “ how long does it take for hair to grow back ? ”, it would be helpful to know that, according to the American Academy of Dermatology, hair grows about 1/2 inch every month. That’s about 6 inches per year for the hair on your head.
Despite this average rate, the rate of hair growth depends on:
- age
- specific hair type
- overall health-associated health conditions
As mentioned earlier, the way to grow hair or hair growth occurs in a cycle of three phases.
Hair grows in three stages, and each strand of hair follows its own timeline. These three stages are:
- Anagen: growing phase
- Catagen: transition phase. Hair stops growing
- Telogen: resting phase. Hair falls out
Out of the total number of hair on the head, only 5-10% are in the telogen phase, which would roughly be around 100-150 hair falling out every day.
How to grow hair- long and strong
Keratin and dead skin cells are basically the major components of hair. Although an overnight hair sprout isn’t possible or reasonable, there are steps that can be taken to keep your hair long and strong. Listed below are some ways to enhance your hair growth:
1. Vitamins and nutrients
The vitamins and nutrient supplements that we take do not directly affect hair length, but rather, it provides the body with the energy and raw materials with which to grow hair. Therefore, it is very important to have balanced meals.
Some of the supplements that help with hair growth are omega-3 and 6, zinc, vitamin B, C, D, and iron.
In conclusion, a balanced meal with right nutrients helps with how to grow hair.
2. Essential oils
Essential oils are used diluted either in shampoo or other oils. Applying essential oil to the skin in a direct manner is not recommended. Dilution of essential oils in coconut, sunflower, or castor oil and applying it to your hair and massaging the scalp will promote hair growth.
3. Ointments
Topical ointments are usually for people with hair loss. These ointments are effective in the treatment of hair loss and promoting hair growth. Some of the ointments to try out are:
- topical melatonin (increases hair density)
- Propecia
- ketoconazole (shampoo)
4. Keratin supplements
Keratin is an important part of hair composition; therefore, taking keratin supplements is definitely beneficial to hair growth. It may even improve hair brightness and luster
5. Protein Use
Proteins help protect hair from chemical and environmental damage. Use protein treatment when styling hair. If protein treatment isn’t available, simple coconut oil can be used as a substitute.
However, too much protein supplements can have a detrimental effect on the kidneys and eventually cause hair to be brittle. Therefore, it is best to have the protein source be from diet rather than supplements.
6. Caffeine in your follicles
Using products containing caffeine is known to have promoted hair growth. Although it may seem a bit odd, caffeine might be an easy way to grow hair.
7. Frequent trims
Although seemingly counterintuitive, frequent trimming of hair does promote hair growth. Trimming of hair gets rid of split ends that break the hair, and when this breakage is gotten rid of, the hair looks healthier and grows faster. In conclusion, hair trim results in shiny, voluminous, and smooth looking hair.
Read an article about 8 Tricks for Healthier, Fuller-Looking Hair
8. Keep bleach at bay
Bleaching the hair results in cuticle damage, which evidently causes more split ends and weaker hair. Keeping such treatments away from the hair results in long and strong hair.
9. Brush, brush, and brush
Brushing the hair leads to the distribution of scalp oil onto the hair causing it to be naturally moisturized. In addition, brushing also increases circulation, making the scalp healthier.
10. Heat styling
It is better not to use heat on the hair to style if possible. If this is unavoidable, always use a protectant while doing so. For example, coconut oil.
11. When Showering
Although showering and washing your hair without shampoo may feel unnatural, it does have its positive side. Avoiding daily shampooing and doing so two to three times a week allows natural oils to penetrate the hair, allowing hydration and repair. Equally important is rinsing the hair off with cool or cold water after a hot shower. This helps cuticle closure and strengthens the hair before styling it.
12. After shower
Hair is especially susceptible to breakage when wet, so it is best to avoid brushing if possible. However, if you do brush, always make sure to be gentle on your hair. Start by gently brushing from the ends and work your way up. And brush thoroughly.
13. Pillowcases
Getting a silk pillowcase helps avoid tangles and breaking. Another easy way to grow healthy hair.
