Many people dream of luxurious hair, but sometimes it seems that hair grows so slowly that long locks are something out of the realm of fantasy.
Let's figure out how the hair growth process actually works and what influences it.
Basic hair growth rate
On average, human hair grows at a rate of about 1 centimeter per month. That's about 12 centimeters per year.
Sounds good, right? But why then do so many people complain that their hair feels like it's frozen in place?
The fact is that hair growth is a complex process that is influenced by many factors.
Hair is not a lawn that can be cut today and grow back tomorrow. This process is individual for each person and depends on a number of conditions.
What determines the rate of hair growth
Genetics and hormonal background are in the first place. These are the factors that we have almost no influence on.
If your parents couldn't boast of fast-growing hair, most likely you will have to be patient too.
However, there are other important aspects:
1. Nutrition. Hair needs nutrients no less than the rest of our body.
2. Health condition. Various diseases can significantly slow down hair growth.
3. Stress level. Chronic stress is a real enemy of beautiful curls.
4. Environment: Air pollution, hard water, UV radiation - all of these can negatively affect hair growth.
5. Hair care. Properly selected products can stimulate growth, while unsuitable ones, on the contrary, slow it down.
Enemies of fast hair growth
Now let's take a closer look at the factors that can slow down the growth of our curls.
Genetics is what we get from our parents
As much as we would like to change it, our genes play a key role in determining how quickly our hair grows.
If you notice that your hair grows slower than your friend's, don't rush to blame your shampoo or diet. It may just be your individual characteristic, given to you by nature.
Health problems
Our body is a complex system where everything is interconnected. If you are sick or take certain medications, this can affect hair growth.
At such moments, the body directs all its forces to fight the disease, and hair is not a priority.
Stress and lack of sleep are the main enemies of beauty
In the modern world, it is difficult to avoid stress, but we must remember that it seriously affects our health, including the condition of our hair.
When we are constantly nervous and do not get enough sleep, the body works to the limit. As a result, the hair receives fewer nutrients and grows more slowly.
The environment is not always friendly
Ultraviolet rays, polluted air, temperature changes - all this can negatively affect the health of hair.
The sun is especially dangerous: it can dry out the scalp and damage the hair, making it brittle and dull.
Water quality matters
It would seem, what difference does it make what water you wash your hair with? But in fact, it is very important.
Water that is too hard can make your hair dry and brittle, while water that is too soft can make it difficult to rinse out hair care products, causing them to build up on your scalp and hair.
Improper care can cause harm
Sometimes, trying to speed up hair growth, we start using a lot of products. But this can lead to the opposite effect.
For example, frequent use of dry shampoo can clog the pores of the scalp, preventing normal hair growth.
Lack of vitamins and minerals
Our hair needs proper nutrition no less than we do. If the body lacks some important substances, this is reflected in the condition of the hair. Protein and iron are especially important for hair growth.
How to speed up hair growth
Now that we know what can hinder hair growth, let's talk about how to speed it up.
1. Healthy lifestyle. Yes, this is a universal piece of advice that also works for hair. Proper nutrition, sufficient sleep, moderate exercise - all this will help your hair grow faster.
2. Balanced diet. Make sure your diet contains enough protein, iron, B vitamins, and other nutrients.
3. Proper care. Choose products that suit your hair type. Don't forget about protection from the sun and other harmful environmental factors.
4. Scalp massage: This simple procedure improves blood circulation and can stimulate hair growth.
5. Minimize stress. Find ways to relax and relieve stress - this will help not only your hair, but also your overall well-being.
6. Cosmetic procedures. Mesotherapy, plasma therapy, microneedling - these procedures can stimulate hair growth. But before doing them, be sure to consult a specialist.
Conclusion
Hair growth is a complex process that is influenced by many factors. Although we cannot change our genetics, there is much we can do.
Proper care, a healthy lifestyle and a little patience will help you achieve the desired hair length. Remember that hair beauty starts from the inside, so take care of your body as a whole, and your locks will thank you with their health and beauty.
Author: Valeria Kisternaya
