For the past several months I've been on a mission to grow out my heat-damaged curls. Years of flat-ironing and abusing my strands with hot tools left my once spirals curls thin, limp and straight-ish. It seems like I've been growing these rizos out forever, but what's even more frustrating than that is growing out this hair during the hot and humid summer. Trust me, it's a serious pain in the butt!
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When I first realized that my hair was suffering from heat damage, I told myself there was NO way I was going to do a big chop. I'd nourish my hair as much as possible (to prevent further damage and breakage) and I'd cut about an inch or two of the straight/wavy ends every month. But now that's it's 90-something degrees out and humid as hell, I'm not too sure I have the patience to be messing with this ultra delicate frizz-prone hair.
I've honestly considered just chopping it all off and starting all over again. I could do that, but regardless I'm still going to have to grow this hair out. Is it even possible to make this time-consuming process a little more pleasant? Fortunately, there is. Here are a few ways you can make your hair growth journey a much less miserable experience!
1. Stay nourished: If you're looking to bring your hair back to health, getting the proper nutrients is key. I've noticed that ever since I started eating a cleaner and much greener diet, my hair has made tremendous improvements. Eat foods that are rich in vitamins and have plenty of protein. I also recommend taking supplements like biotin, which is known for encouraging hair growth.
2. Take care of your scalp: I recommend you start washing your hair with a cleansing conditioner that doesn't contain sulfates, parabens, phthalates or lather. Look for a formula that deeply moisturizes dry, damaged hair and that includes peppermint or tea tree oil, which works to stimulate your scalp and help hair grow out. I love DevaCurl No-Poo ($20) and WEN Tea Tree Cleansing Conditioner. ($32).
3. Give yourself a massage: Massaging your scalp alone is another great way to stimulate blood flow and increase circulation that promotes healthier hair follicles. You can use the tips of your fingers (never your nails) or try an actual Scalp Massager ($2). I love these things!
4. Get regular trims: If you're growing out your hair, it might sound silly to see your stylist for a cut. But regular trims keep hair healthy while minimizing split ends and breakage. It can also make your current style more manageable.
5. Do a deep treatment: Be gentle with your hair while growing it out. Apply a deep conditioning treatment, like Carol's Daughter Monoi Repairing Mask ($32), to your curls at least once a week. Also, use a leave-in conditioner to keep strands hydrated and nourished at all times. I use Ouidad Moisture Lock Leave-In Conditioner ($32) religiously.
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