How to Make Black People's Hair Grow Longer

Moisturizing is the secret to growing long hair.

The ability to grow your hair to long lengths is determined in large part by genetics. Some people of African descent can grow their hair to long lengths, while others may not be able to grow their hair past the shoulders. This same example applies to other races as well. The hair's structure, over-use of chemicals or improper care can hinder growth or prevent the retention of length. The natural structure holds more curl and zigzag patterns per square inch so the sebum cannot easily to travel down the hair shaft to protect it from the elements. Black people's hair may require special attention to retain hair growth.

Instructions

1. Use moisturizing conditioners with humectants such as glycerin in the ingredient list. Humectants have special binding properties that draw moisture from the air and bind the moisture to the molecules of the humectants. Humectants help to keep the hair moisturized. Humectants will especially benefit the hair in dryer climates where moisture evaporates from the hair shaft easily.

2. Use natural oils such as olive, jojoba or peppermint to help alleviate dry scalp and hair. Much like the sebum produced by our own bodies, jojoba oil contains molecules small enough to penetrate the skin and hair shaft. Using essential oils can help seal moisture into the hair shaft.

3. Limit the amount of heat used on the hair. Black people's hair may naturally be dryer than other hair types because of the lack of sebum that reaches the length of the hair to prevent moisture from evaporating. Try limiting the use of heat to once a week.

4. Use a clarifying shampoo at least once a month to remove build-up of product ingredients such as mineral oil, petroleum and even silicones. These ingredients stick to the hair and block moisture from penetrating the hair shaft. Although these ingredients help to seal moisture into the hair shaft, they can cause dryness to the hair due to the inability of the hair to absorb moisture. Clarifying shampoos cleanse the hair of excess product that other shampoos might not be able to do.

5. Increase the amount of time in between relaxer processes. If you relax your hair try not to relax any sooner than two to three months or until you have an inch of new growth or more. Constant relaxing may result in over-processed hair that may eventually lead to hair breakage or damage to the scalp. If you relax the new growth only, the relaxer is still rinsed down the length of the hair, slightly processing the already-processed hair.

6. Use a leave-in moisturizing product daily to return moisture to the hair and restore elasticity. If the hair lacks elasticity, it could easily snap when manipulated or pulled.

7. Sleep on a pillow with a satin pillowcase. Cotton pillow cases absorb moisture and oil from the hair, making it dry. You can also cover your hair in a satin bonnet or scarf at night before going to bed.

Tips & Warnings

• Try to incorporate scalp massages at least twice a week to increase circulation and blood flow to the scalp for stronger follicles.

References

• Faux Blondes: Humectants as Moisturizing Agents
• Africurl: Moisturizing Black Hair to Retain Length
• Grow Black Hair Long: Why does black hair break so easily- 3 Things you need to know
• Long Healthy Hair Advisor: Jojoba Oil for Hair

Resources

• Treasured Locks: Black Hair Care Tips, Style and Faqs
• Grow Black Hair Long: Black Hair Can Grow by Understanding These 3 Key Elements