Long hair can be beautiful and easier to style on a “bad hair day” than some shorter styles (top-knot, anyone?). But getting there can be a challenge for some women. If you’re thinking of growing your hair long and need some momentum to get started, here are some easy tips and tricks you can try. Just remember, the key to long, beautiful hair is keeping it healthy and conditioned.
Tips & Tricks for Growing out Your Hair
- Try Prenatal Vitamins – This is a little secret some women swear by because prenatal vitamins contain biotin, iron, and folic acid, which are great for hair, skin and nails. However, always be sure to consult your doctor before trying any new supplements or vitamins.
- Take Biotin – Taking in additional Biotin will help strengthen your tresses and aid in collagen production for healthy hair, skin and nails. You can find Biotin in foods like eggs, fish, nuts and seeds. But it can also be taken as an over-the-counter vitamin supplement.
- Give Yourself Scalp Massages – Increasing the blood flow to the scalp is said to stimulate hair growth by activating the follicles, helping them to produce hair more quickly. Not to mention, it’s also a great stress reliever. Massage your hair with your fingertips (avoid using your fingernails) for a few minutes to stimulate the scalp. Add two to three drops of your favorite essential oil (I’m such a fan of lavender) for a spa-like experience.
- Avoid Damaging Your Hair – Sadly, it’s a myth that cutting your hair will make it grow faster. Your hair will continue to grow from your scalp whether you cut it often or not. However, not taking care of it will result in dry, damaged, and broken ends, giving the appearance of thinner, shorter, hair. To keep your hair healthy between cuts, be sure to avoid intense heat styling and try conditioning the ends regularly.
- Eat Leafy Greens: Rich in iron, Vitamin E, and folate, leafy greens like spinach and kale will not only help keep you healthy all over, but also give your hair and skin the essential nutrients it needs. If you’re not a fan of eating leafy greens, try juicing them – here are some of my favorite recipes.
- Be Patient – Above all else, try to be patient throughout the process, particularly during those awkward, in-between lengths. When you start to get the itch for a sharp pair of scissors, try reaching for a brush instead; a new hairstyle, side part, or mini up-do will do wonders to change your look and hold you over until your tresses are as long as Rapunzel’s!
Do you have any tricks for growing hair long? Let me know if you have any beauty secrets for long locks!