There's nothing more frustrating than waiting for your hair to grow out–especially when it's damaged. It can literally feel like forever. But in order to get long hair, you need healthy hair first. Fortunately, there are ways to bring your strands back to health. We spoke with celebrity hair stylist David Lopez for SheaMoisture, who provided some helpful tips on speeding up the growth of your hair, even when it's in desperate need of repair. Check it out and get ready to rock a long, luscious mane by summer!
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Give yourself regular scalp massages.
"The skin on your scalp is just an extension of the skin on your face and it’s just as important to exfoliate your scalp," says Lopez. "Exfoliating your scalp helps promote blood circulation and brings much needed nutrients to the scalp for stronger, healthier hair. It also helps wards off dandruff and flaking during winter months."
Lopez recommends giving yourself a mini scalp massage anytime you apply conditioner to your hair.
On how to actually give yourself a scalp massage.
"Place your hands on top of your head as if you were putting on an invisible hat. Once your fingers are firmly on your scalp, gently give yourself a deep massage using the pads of the fingers moving the hairline back towards the nape of your neck," Lopez says. "Repeat with a front to back motion three or four times , for the maximum benefit. For an extra bonus, add a couple of drops of your favorite essential oil or hair repair oil onto your temples, crown and back of your scalp prior to massaging."
Try a scalp scrub, like Kiehl’s Deep Micro-Exfoliating Scalp Treatment ($20).
Trim hair regularly.
“If you keep your hair collar bone length or longer, it’s important to get a “dusting” every eight to ten weeks,” says Lopez. “Make sure you communicate to your stylist that you don’t need an inch taken off. A couple centimeters will do the trick. Without trims, you may be subjecting your hair to breakage and ultimately hair that’s stuck at one length and feels like it’s not growing.”
Your diet matters.
Believe it or not, your diet and nutrition are important when it comes to hair growth. “There are many medical conditions that inhibit hair growth,” says Lopez. “It’s important to discuss with your doctor or physician any concerns you might have about hair loss. Eating foods full of healthy fats, like avocado help with shine and luster, while fruits like tangerines are chock full of vitamin B12 which helps promote hair growth, reduce hair loss and slow down the greying process.” Lopez recommends looking for supplements that contain biotin, folic acids, and omega oils. Try Vivisical Extra Strength ($50).
Do a protein treatment.
“Protein treatments are super important for curly girls that love to use their flat iron or brunettes addicted to peroxide blonde,” says Lopez. “Your hair needs protein for strength but keep in mind there is such a thing as “too much of a good thing” when it comes to protein treatments. Too much protein can lead to brittle hair that snaps off. That’s why it’s so important to balance the moisture to bring back the elasticity and shine."
Try Madam C.J. Walker Beauty Culture Dream Come True Wonderful Pre-Wash Protein Treatment ($32).
Lay off the heat.
"It generally takes 14 days for your hair to "remember" its natural texture if you’ve been styling daily with a hot tool," says Lopez. "Start small. Take breaks on the weekends or days you know you can wear your hair in a cute top knot or sexy pony tail. If you’re going to spend an evening on the couch Netflix’ing, massage a mask onto your dry hair, mid-length to ends, and secure into a chic braid before relaxing."
Protect strands when you do heat-style.
"A good heat protectant is incredible at helping slow down heat-damage,” says Lopez. "It’s important to note that no one product can completely prevent heat-damage. However, doing things like turning down the heat level on your hot tool, taking breaks, and using a strong heat protectant can keep your locks in top shape."
Try SheaMoisture Argan Oil & Almond Milk Smooth & Tame Thermo-Protect Milk ($11).
Do a hair mask often.
"Extremely damaged hair will benefit from using a hair mask as your regular conditioner," says Lopez. "Otherwise, a mask once a week will do the trick. Find a mask that’s perfectly tailored to your needs. Hair that’s heavily styled with hot tools or bleached will need a good balance or moisture and protein."
Try SheaMoisture Mongongo & Hemp High Porosity Moisture Seal Masque ($13). “Uncolored hair will need more moisture to help bring back the elasticity of the hair and stop the "snapping." Try Kerastase Masque Force Architecte ($63).
