A Gentle Way to Wash Hair and Grow It Long

Treat your hair well to grow it healthy and long.

While most people can grow hair long, growing healthy long hair requires more attention than shorter hair styles. Those who constantly color their locks might fare better by keeping hair cut to a minimum length, as chemical damage increases the need for trims. Expect to make some changes in your washing and styling routine if you want to grow your hair long and maintain its health. The LongLocks website warns that you can't cure damaged hair, so washing your hair gently and keeping it healthy as you grow it from the start is key.

Instructions

1. Make an appointment with your hair stylist to trim your hair. Discuss your plans with your hair stylist so he can cut your hair appropriately. Depending on the current condition of your hair, you might need a simple trim or several inches cut off your length.

2. Switch your regular shampoo and conditioner to a product with fewer ingredients than common shampoos. Different cleaning agents added to some shampoos dry out hair. Visit a store that sells organic products or talk with your stylist to decide the best shampoo and conditioner for your hair.

3. Change your washing habits. Don't wash your hair every day, as your hair's natural oils helps keep it moisturized. During normal showering, lather shampoo at the roots of your hair, rinse it, work conditioner through the ends of your hair and rinse as usual.

4. Use a boar-bristle brush to brush your dry hair or gently run a wide-toothed comb through your hair after conditioning while your hair is still wet. Avoid using a brush or comb that pulls out hair and brush your hair gently.

5. Avoid styling your hair with products or tools. Blow dryers, hair straighteners and curling irons burn your hair and cause damage. Don't use accessories that pull on your hair and avoid tight hairstyles, such as tight ponytails, braids or other styles that stress and pull your hair.

Tips & Warnings

• If you must blow dry your hair, use the dryer's cool setting on low. Avoid chlorine and saltwater, as each dries out your hair. Switch to cold water for your final rinse in the shower to retain moisture.

• if you must use a dye, color your hair with a low-peroxide color, henna or natural products that minimize the use of harsh chemicals. After coloring your hair, switch to a shampoo and conditioner that preserve color, as this minimizes the need to dye your hair more often. Look for a product that says "For Color Treated Hair."

• Occasionally use a clarifying shampoo. Clarifying shampoo gets rid of buildup and residue. The LongLocks website suggests using cider vinegar mixed with water or a clarifying shampoo of your choice.

References

• LongLocks: Learn How to Grow Long Hair and Keep it Healthy