Whatever your hair type, whether it is curly, straight, coarse, or fine, you will want to take care of it to the best of your ability to ensure its healthy. So, how can you do so? Granted, that can be easier said than done. Contrary to what most people think, trimming your hair regularly won’t make it grow longer, nor will brushing it for a hundred strokes.

Nevertheless, there are some tried and tested ways to help your hair stay strong and vibrant. Let’s dive into a few simple strategies you can start today.

Take Vitamins
One of the major causes of hair loss leading to alopecia is a vitamin deficiency in the body. That’s why you need to ensure that your body has a solid intake of vitamins that contribute to healthy hair growth. Vitamins that are linked to hair growth include iron, zinc, and vitamins D and B12. Armed with such knowledge, increasing your intake of these vitamins by taking them as supplements can be of great use, as is eating a well-balanced diet rich in proteins and nutrients. A few recommended products, such as Nutrafol and Viviscal, can also support hair growth. In a 2012 study, women who used Viviscal experienced significant hair growth, along with increased smoothness and shine.

Don’t Neglect Your Scalp
The scalp is the foundation on which healthy hair grows, much like soil to a plant. That’s why you need to take care of your scalp on a regular basis. For starters, you will need to wash your hair at least once a week to avoid dandruff buildup. Another thing you could do is to regularly massage your scalp, which not only relieves stress, but also increases the blood circulation to the follicles and enhances the penetration of the hair’s natural oils. The Manta Healthy Hair Brush allows you to brush your hair and massage it as well. The brush has ultra-soft, flexible bristles that prevent hair damage and massages the scalp, like running your fingers through your hair. 

Many women find it helpful to occasionally coat their scalp with castor oil, which is a powerful ingredient that promotes hair growth. Heritage Castor Oil is a recommended option; it is 100 per cent cold-pressed and deeply nourishes the hair and scalp, giving you a fuller, thicker, shinier look.

Choose the Right Products
In today’s market, there are a plethora of products to choose from, each claiming to improve hair growth. A quick walk through any pharmacy or beauty aisle will leave you in awe at the selection of shampoos you could use. Contrary to what most people think, washing your hair with shampoo on a regular basis won’t damage it. 

Regular washing and conditioning of your hair can promote healthy scalp and hair. Nonetheless, you need to make sure you use the right products at home, especially if you colour or chemically treat your hair. Heat from blow-drying your hair or using a curling iron can cause breakage. To protect your hair, products like TRESemmé Keratin Smooth Heat Protect Spray act as a thermal shield, helping prevent damage while giving your hair a healthy bounce and shine.

Be Gentle
To have healthy hair, preventing breakage is key, especially if you want it to grow. That’s why it is advisable not to be rough with your hair even when it’s wet. To that end, it helps to avoid anything that might make your hair more prone to breakage, such as super-tight ponytails or buns. They can cause prolonged, repetitive tension on the hair, leading to hair loss. For healthy soft hair growth, try sleeping on a silk pillow to minimize friction. It also helps to apply a thermal shield before you use any heated tools. Last but not least, don’t overdo hair beauty; do your best to avoid chemical services or hair lightening, as these will compromise the integrity of your hair.

Growing your hair can take a lot of time and effort, but the key is to be patient. Using the right products, taking care of your scalp, and not forgetting your vitamins can contribute to healthier-looking hair.

David Messiha | Staff Writer