Glycerin for Hair Growth

Glycerin is a thick, colorless liquid that is a natural humectant, meaning that it attracts moisture. Easily attainable at most grocery stores and a common ingredient in many beauty products, glycerin can be used to promote healthy, shiny and fast-growing hair. Although glycerin will not promote hair growth outside of what is normal, it will maximize it by giving you the healthiest head of hair possible.

Because glycerin attracts moisture, it is well known for its ability to smooth and soften hair. It pulls moisture into the hair cuticles and locks it in, preventing hair from becoming frizzy, dry or breaking off. As such, glycerin is an excellent deep conditioner for those with dry, coarse hair. However, if overused, glycerin can make your hair feel waxy or greasy.

Healthy hair grows faster than unhealthy hair. Since glycerin improves hair health, it naturally promotes hair growth. Some companies or individuals suggest that by using glycerin, you can expect an astounding amount of growth in a short period of time. These claims are untested and any evidence is entirely anecdotal. Glycerin will help your hair to grow up to 1 inch per month, which is the maximum amount that any healthy head of hair will grow.

To use glycerin, mix a solution of equal parts water and equal parts glycerin. You need to make just enough to run through your hair. After washing and conditioning your hair as you normally would, apply the glycerin to your damp tresses. Use your fingers to work it in, focusing on the dry areas. Wait for up to five minutes and then rinse out the excess using warm water. Repeat this as necessary, up to three times per week.

If you don't want to wash your hair with glycerin, you may want to create a glycerin spray that you can use on your hair for extra shine and softness every day. To do this, mix 4 1/4 cups of chamomile tea, 1 tsp. of honey, 3 tsp. of glycerin, 2 tsp. of vegetable oil and 6 drops of Rosemary oil. As a side note, if you are out in the sun a lot and want to lighten or highlight your hair, add 2 tsp. of lemon juice to the mixture. Put this in a spritzer bottle, shaking well before each use. This mixture will last up to two weeks. Lightly spray it onto damp or dry hair before styling.