How to maximise your hair growth cycle #8

There are 3 main stages of a hair growth cycle:

1.Anagen– active growth stage that can last up to an average of 6 years and is genetically predetermined.

2.Catagen– transition phase in which hair stops growing and gets ready to fall off.

3.Telogen– phase in which “old” hair falls off.

What can we do to make it grow faster and stronger?

Just like a plant needs:

Good Soil

Water and Nutrients

Good Maintenance

The same is needed for our hair:

•The soil represents our scalp where the follicles are.

•The water represents moisture to keep hair hydrated whilst the nutrients represent proteins, vitamins and minerals which keep the hair nourished.

•Good maintenance is to trim when necessary and give it what it needs.

Good Soil – Scalp

Make sure to maintain a balanced healthy diet, exercise, get enough sleep, drink the recommended 1.5L of water a day.

Do not use heavy products on the scalp too often, if the hair is in need of heavy product application apply it 2 inches from the scalp.

Wash hair in sections and whenever needed. Too much or too little washing are both damaging. Most naturals wash their hair once a week or every two weeks. (Beware this does not apply if you do intensive exercise often)

Using a good clarifying shampoo once a month will keep your scalp free of build-up.

Use low sulphate or no sulphates, no mineral oil, no bad alcohols, synthetic colours and silicones products whenever possible. Do not use relaxers or texturizers, neither use products with harsh preservatives such as formaldehyde and parabens. Go back to the basics!

Water and Nutrients – Moisture, Protein, Vitamins and Minerals

Deep condition at least once a week.
Use a good moisturizer and sealant.

Good Maintenance

Our scalp’s natural oils are called sebum. Sebum travel s quickly on straight hair but slow on woolly hair hence our hair is less greasy.- A satin-lined pillow or satin cap for night time helps prevent moisture loss and keeps hairstyles intact!

Create a hair regimen that works for your hair and keep to it as long as your hair needs do not change.
Do not comb hair dry
Mist with water whenever needed
Finger detangle or use a wide-tooth comb in sections
Use quality products and ingredients

Use and abuse of protective styles with your own hair or head wraps (satin or with satin scarf underneath) as these are the best options. It will save you headaches and your edges on the long run. There is an unlimited choice of styles!