Nourish long, healthy locks…
Some habits we have may be causing damage to our hair. Take a look and see if you are taking care to keep your locks growing long and strong!
TRIM YOUR HAIR
While it may sound counterintuitive to cut your hair for longer lengths, in fact regular trims of ¼’’ every three months can be beneficial. When hair is not cut regularly, split ends can travel up the shaft of the hair strand leading to shorter overall hair length.
CONSIDER YOUR PILLOWCASE
Some people experience hair breakage and frizz when their hair rubs against a pillowcase made of 100% cotton. Satin pillowcases can reduce friction on your hair shaft. Consider a satin pillowcase or a satin bonnet.
PLATELET-RICH PROTEIN
Consider injections with platelet rich protein, a treatment we offer at our office. Platelets are useful, because they secrete growth factors which may assist in wound healing and tissue regrowth. At our office we can isolate the plasma rich protein and treat the scalp where hair growth is sparse. This technique is very popular for both males and females with hair thinning,
HEAT
Using tools, such as straighteners, blow dryers, and curling irons, can cause your hair shaft to break or become damaged with frequent use. Be sure to use a heat protecting spray beforehand and remember to use the coolest setting possible when styling.
LET WET HAIR BE
Brushing wet hair can cause breakage and immediately blow drying very wet hair can cause fragility of the hair shaft. It is best to let hair dry, at least partially, before attempting to brush it. Consider using a wide toothed comb. For straight hair wait until dry to brush and for curly or textured hair wait to brush until mostly dry.
COLOR WITH CARE
Products used to lighten hair, such as bleach, can be damaging to hair. Try to go no lighter than three shades above your normal hair color to avoid breakage. Consider vegetable dyes.
BE AWARE OF MEDICATION
Some medications can help hair grow, such as over-the-counter minoxidil (Rogaine) and prescription finasteride (Propecia). Nutrafol vitamins improve hair growth with more thickness and strength. There are also medications which may contribute to hair loss, such as beta-blockers, amphetamines and isotretinoin.
SERENITY NOW!
Severe stress can send hair into a resting phase. This in turn can cause your hair to skip the phase where it grows. Additionally, some people with high degrees of stress can feel an urge to pull out their hair; a condition called trichotillomania. Try to reduce stress as much as possible. Meditate. Exercise. Breathe.
CONSIDER A MASSAGE
Scalp massages may be helpful in hair growing in thicker by increasing blood flow to the scalp. Try a scalp massaging tool or consider pinching your scalp several times throughout the day.
SPECIAL CARE FOR AFRICAN AMERICAN HAIR
It is important to take measures to avoid unwanted breakage.
Washing your hair weekly or every other week. The goal is simply to remove product build up.
If you relax your hair, try only to have it done every 2-3 months, or less frequently.
Treat your hair with hot oil treatment every couple of weeks.
BRAIDS AND EXTENSIONS
While it may seem extensions or braids are a faster way to get long hair, be careful that they are not too tight- ultimately pulling out your natural hair. A good rule is that if the extensions or braids hurt, they are too tight and it may be best to return to your stylist. Remember, braids and extensions should not be worn for longer than 2-3 months at a time and never pull them out yourself!
CONDITION, CONDITION, CONDITION!
Conditioned hair helps to prevent split ends and shorter hair shafts. It also helps to protect against damage from UV Rays. If conditioner weighs your hair down, concentrate only on the ends of your hair.
AVOID FAD DIETS AND SUDDEN WEIGHT LOSS
Sudden weight loss can cause shedding or decreased growth. When your body does not get enough protein, your body will deprioritize hair growth and use the protein for other more vital metabolic functions.
SCREEN FOR DEFICIENCIES
When you are deficient in certain nutrients, hair can be affected. Iron deficiency anemia and Vitamin D deficiencies can be corrected and normal hair growth can ensue. Oral and IV vitamin therapy replenish deficiencies and help enhance hair growth. Screening for thyroid abnormalities can also pick up metabolic factors that may be leading to hair loss.
Schedule your hair loss consultation today. We provide full hair loss assessments, oral and IV vitamin therapy as well as PRP treatments.
—Lesley Bowler, PA-C