- Eat a healthy diet of fresh fruits and vegetables, packed with vitamins that promote healthy skin and hair. A daily multivitamin supplement can help, particularly if it has zinc and biotin. Because hair is made of protein, a well-balanced diet with all of the recommended daily nutrients provides optimum hair growth.
- Use high-quality shampoo and conditioners that leave in or replenish oils so your hair is shiny and manageable. Avoid harsh ingredients such as ammonium lauryl sulfate, sulfur, selenium sulfide (found in many dandruff shampoos) that dry your hair. Before blow-drying or using direct heat from curling or flat irons, apply a cream or spray that's designed to protect hair from heat. Reduce stress, get plenty of sleep, and avoid chemicals in and on your body or scalp.
- Hair should only be washed when it is dirty. After shampooing, comb the tangles with a wide-toothed comb. Allow it to air dry until it's barely damp, then finish it with a blow dryer. Only brush the hair if necessary; too much brushing breaks the ends of the hair. Avoid using too many accessories in the hair that constrict or tug at the hair, which can also cause breakage.
- Contrary to commercial claims, split ends cannot be repaired. The only way to remove them is by cutting the hair. Because split ends make the hair difficult to manage, it's a good idea to get a trim several times a year.
- There is no scientific proof that anything makes hair grow faster. However, keeping the scalp healthy and stimulated with nutrition, high-quality products and scalp massages result in healthier hair.
