Getting your hair thicker and longer can often be a frustrating process. People try all sorts of medications and even experiment with hair care products to increase hair growth, only to be greeted with the same lusterless strands.
The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) says that, on average, hair grows six inches each year. They also say that we lose about 50 to 100 hairs a day. But for many, hair growth feels minimal no matter what they try. Worry not. If you’re looking to make your hair grow faster and thicker, we have some great tips. With these simple and effective measures, you can improve the growth of your hair in no time.
1. Get Frequent Trims
How can a haircut help hair grow? Won't that be counterproductive? Hair stylists say that getting frequent trims ensures that you get rid of split ends that break your hair. Split ends are the weakest parts of the hair strands, and if left as is, these ends can move to the shafts of your hair strands and cause even more breakage. Also, a split end that breaks can lead to your hair losing length. So if hair growth is your goal, make sure you aim for a 1/4-inch trim every 3 months or so.
2. Eat the Right Foods
Maintaining the right diet is also crucial in promoting hair growth. If your diet isn’t healthy, hair growth won’t be ideal. Experts suggest increasing your protein intake for proper hair growth. Ideally, 50 or more grams of protein per day should be good. You can boost your protein intake with foods like fish, beans, nuts, and whole grains. Read our article on Foods That Keep Your Hair Strong, Healthy, & Luscious for more information.
3. Try Caffeine-Infused Hair Products
You might be aware that caffeine gives us an energy boost, but studies also show that it may have growth-promoting effects on your hair. A 2014 study found that caffeine can help foster new hair growth at the molecular, cellular, and organ levels.
You can find many caffeine-infused hair shampoos and conditioners on the market these days. Try the ones that also include vitamins, premium oils, and organic plant materials apart from caffeine.
4. Explore Essential Oils
Essential oils have many benefits – they smell good, improve sleep, and reduce stress. Research shows that they may also help promote hair growth.
A 2014 study found that having 400 milligrams of pumpkin seed oil in capsule form results in an increase in hair growth in men. The study further states that the men who took pumpkin seed oil had a 40 percent increase in hair count after 24 weeks.
Another study found that peppermint oil can help promote hair growth, including an increase in dermal thickness, follicle number, and follicle depth. Research also shows that rosemary oil can be effective in stimulating hair growth.
For best results, mix several drops of any of these essential oils into 3 tablespoons of carrier oil and apply it directly to your scalp. Leave it there for 10 minutes before washing.
5. Give Yourself a Scalp Massage
Hair experts say that giving yourself a nice scalp massage can help boost the health of your hair and may even help it grow thicker. A small 2016 study that analyzed the effectiveness of daily 4-minute scalp massages in nine men found that the participants had thicker hair after 24 weeks of treatment. The researchers believe that a scalp massage may help dilate blood vessels beneath the skin and enhance the strength of the roots, which may lead to thicker and stronger hair.
You can get a professional scalp massage or do it yourself at home. Watch this video to know how to give yourself a proper scalp massage.
6. Brush Your Hair Before Going To Bed
The less breakage your hair experiences, the longer it will be. Hair can weaken and sometimes even break during sleep, as it may have to suffer friction and pulling throughout the night on the pillow. Since your hair is more vulnerable to damage and breakage during bedtime, it can prevent your locks from growing steadily. Therefore, brushing your hair before going to bed might be beneficial, as it will help detangle it and will also distribute your scalp’s oils onto your hair to keep it hydrated.
7. Reduce Stress
Stress, as you may know, affects all systems of the body. Research indicates that chronic stress can even cause hair loss. It may also put you at higher risk for alopecia areata – an autoimmune disorder that results in unpredictable patchy hair loss.
Share this post with friends and family!
