How does your hair actually grow?
To understand how to make your hair grow faster, it's important to first understand how the hair growth cycle works.
Your hair grows in three phases:
- The anagen phase: This is the growth phase, during which hair actively grows. This phase can last two to six years.
- The catagen phase: This is a transitional phase in which the hair stops growing and the hair follicles prepare to release the hair.
- The telogen phase: This is the resting phase during which hair falls out and makes way for new hair.
The goal is to prolong the anagen phase and optimize the health of your hair follicles. The tips below will help you do this effectively.
How to grow hair faster:
1. Ensure proper nutrition
Healthy hair starts from within. Your diet plays a crucial role in the speed and quality of your hair growth. Eat foods rich in essential nutrients, such as:
- Protein : Hair is largely made up of keratin, a protein. A high-protein diet is therefore essential. Choose lean meat, fish, eggs, legumes, and dairy.
- B vitamins : Biotin (vitamin B8 ) in particular supports healthy hair growth. You can find biotin in nuts, eggs, and bananas.
- Zinc and iron : These minerals help prevent hair loss . Good sources include spinach, pumpkin seeds, and red meat.
- Omega-3 fatty acids : These healthy fats nourish the scalp and promote hair growth. You can find them in oily fish like salmon and mackerel, and in chia seeds and walnuts.
If you find you're not getting enough of these nutrients, a hair growth supplement like Hair Support may be a good addition.
2. Hydrate your hair from within
Drinking enough water is important not only for your overall health, but also for your hair. Well-hydrated hair is less likely to break and remains more elastic. Try to drink at least 1.5 to 2 liters of water daily to keep both your body and your hair hydrated.
3. Have your hair cut regularly
Although it may seem counterintuitive, cutting your hair can actually help it grow faster. Regularly removing split ends prevents further damage and breakage. Schedule a trim every 6 to 8 weeks to keep your hair healthy.
4. Take good care of your scalp
A healthy scalp is the foundation for healthy hair growth. Here are a few simple tips to optimally care for your scalp:
- Massage your scalp daily to stimulate blood circulation and supply hair follicles with more nutrients.
- Use a mild shampoo that won't dry out your scalp. Avoid products with harsh chemicals like sulfates and parabens.
- Consider a scalp treatment with essential oils, such as rosemary or tea tree oil, which promote hair growth.
5. Minimize heat and chemical treatments
Excessive use of styling tools like blow dryers, straighteners, and curling irons can dry out and damage your hair, hindering growth. If you use styling tools, always apply a heat protectant. Also, limit chemical treatments like hair dyes and perms, as these can damage the hair structure.
6. Use products that stimulate hair growth
7. Avoid stress
Chronic stress can negatively impact your hair growth and even lead to hair loss. The stress hormone cortisol can disrupt the hair growth cycle. Therefore, make sure you get enough relaxation and try stress management techniques such as meditation, yoga, or mindfulness.
8. Protect your hair while you sleep
While you sleep, your hair can become damaged by friction from your pillow. Use a silk or satin pillowcase to reduce friction. Tie your hair back loosely or wear a silk headband for extra protection.
9. Stay patient
Growing your hair is a process that takes time and dedication. On average, hair grows about 1 centimeter per month. By consistently following the tips above, you'll notice your hair becoming stronger, healthier, and possibly growing faster.
