These days, growing out hair naturally has almost become as popular among Black women as it was in the 60’s and 70’s. Maintaining long and healthy locks can present a challenge for any woman, but for women of color, coarser hair texture unfortunately invites breakage more often.
By keeping up a hair regimen and following a few simple guidelines, you can get the natural look you want without tearing your hair out.
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Eat plenty of hair-friendly foods.
Even if you’re not growing out your hair, it’s a good idea to embrace a diet that includes the vitamins and minerals that promote healthy hair. Foods full of protein, iron, vitamins B and D, and omega 3 fatty acids all do just this, so be sure to seek them out. Since it can be difficult to get adequate levels of some of these vitamins—omega 3s, protein, iron—from a vegetarian/vegan diet, women that have these diet restrictions should seek out supplements. In fact, even meat-eaters might want to do the same to bolster hair luster.
Additionally, keeping hydrated is crucial to all body functions, and hair growth is no exception, so make sure to drink plenty of water.
Apply natural oils.
The beauty store is filled with numerous oil applications that claim to be tailored to the chemistry of African hair, but in the end, Mother Nature can offer the best results. In particular, try olive, jojoba, and Jamaican black castor oil for leave-in treatments.
Choose a simple hairstyle.
Especially during the initial growing-out period, you’ll want to make sure to keep your hair tips protected. Once you’ve got some length and it’s time to choose a look, think about style options that cause the least wear and tear, such as buns/French twists or simple braids. For those willing to go “unnatural,” a wig can be a great way to get through the awkward phase after a complete chop—but make sure to protect your hair underneath.
Avoid putting damaging agents into your hair.
Just as you want to put good things into you hair, stay vigilant in keeping harmful agents out. Alcohol (except the fatty alcohols) will easily dry your hair, so check ingredients of any product you put in to make sure it’s free of drying alcohols. You will want to invest in growth shampoo for black hair for the best results.
Also, try to stay clear of any heat treatment, as high temperatures are another cause of split ends.
Trim your ends regularly.
While it only seems logical to refrain from any trimming while you’re aiming for length, this is a big mistake. Without snipping your tresses now and then, split ends are sure to follow. Although split ends don’t prevent your hair from growing, the frizzed-out fro that will result makes all the time spent growing out not worth it.
Use silk, not cotton.
Silk is more than just a luxuriant; it’s also the best thing to put on your hair. Cotton, on the other hand, is a fast ticket to splitsville, so if you’re sleeping in a bonnet, be sure to go with a silk wrap to maximize hair growth.
If you follow these rules of thumb, you’re certain to have the stunning braids, afro or other style you’ve been wanting. The only other thing you may want to stock up on is patience.
Marcela De Vivo
is a freelance writer from Southern California as well as the founder of Gryffin Media.
Her writing covers everything from skin and hair care, to travel and dining, to
gaming and technology.
I had a problem with hair loss 2 years ago, I tried many different substances and supplements Now I can say some of them are complete bullshit and some of them really works.
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