How Fast Does Hair Grow

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If you search "how fast does hair grow" on Google, you will find many articles with headlines like "How to Grow Hair Faster" and "5 Easy Steps to Grow Long Hair." Although these headlines may be intriguing, the truth is that your hair growth rate is fixed and cannot be changed by using haircare products. 

Unfortunately, this means that you cannot increase the speed at which your hair grows. However, by strengthening your hair, you can reduce damage and prevent breakage, which can make your hair appear longer, even if it is growing at the same rate. 

In this article, we will answer some common questions about hair growth, including how fast it grows and what factors can slow it down. Additionally, we will provide tips for improving weak hair so that it is less prone to split ends and breakage. Read on for a comprehensive guide to growing and maintaining long hair from Kiehl's.

How Fast Does Hair Grow?

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Let's get straight to the point: on average, hair grows about 0.5 inches per month or 6 inches per year. Each hair on your head grows from a single follicle, at the base of which is a bulb that produces new hair. The sebaceous gland, located higher up on the follicle, produces oil to keep the hair lubricated. The hair growth cycle is divided into three stages: the anagen phase, during which new hair is actively growing in the hair bulb; the catagen phase, a period of inactivity and regression; and the telogen phase, also known as the resting phase, which can last up to a year on the scalp.

Although your hair is still alive while it is inside the follicle, it only becomes visible after it dies. Hair is primarily composed of dead keratin cells, but also contains other important compounds such as water and lipids, which contribute to its health and appearance.

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What Factors Affect Hair Growth?

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The average hair growth rate is about six inches per year, but this can vary greatly between individuals. Age, genetics, and gender all play a role in determining hair growth speed, with studies indicating that male hair grows faster than female hair, and natural textured hair grows slower than other hair types. External factors such as the season, stress levels, and scalp health can also impact hair growth. Excessive breakage can give the appearance of slower growth, which is why hairstylists often suggest getting a trim every six to eight weeks.

How To Maintain Long Hair: 5 Tips

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To have long, healthy hair, it's important to take proper care of it. Here are five tips to follow:

Tip #1: Start with the Scalp 

A healthy scalp is essential for healthy hair. Take care of your scalp just like you would your hair, by keeping it clean and hydrated.

Tip #2: Exfoliate Your Scalp 

Weekly Dead skin on the scalp needs to be removed to make room for new skin cells. This can lead to flaking, which can interfere with hair growth. Use a scalp scrub to help remove buildup and promote healthy hair.

Tip #3: Avoid Over-Shampooing 

Regular shampooing is important, but over-washing can weaken the hair shaft and lead to breakage. Shampoo every other day or less, using a gentle, non-stripping shampoo.

Tip #4: Nourish Your Lengths 

Use a moisture-rich conditioner every time you shampoo to restore the hair's lipid layer and reduce breakage. For extra TLC, use a deep-conditioning treatment mask.

Tip #5: Use a Leave-In 

After showering, apply a moisturizing leave-in treatment to protect against external stressors and strengthen dry strands.

How to Reduce Damage and Help Grow Healthy Hair

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There is no guaranteed quick solution for faster hair growth, but maintaining healthy hair can help it grow at a faster rate than damaged hair. To keep your hair healthy, consider these tips from experts:

• Hydrate your hair regularly with conditioner, deep conditioners, masks, and oils to prevent dryness and breakage.
• Protect your hair from heat damage by using cooler water when washing, applying heat protectant, opting for cool styling tools, air drying, and avoiding over-processing.
• Keep your scalp healthy by removing buildup, using a scalp scrub once a week, and massaging the roots to stimulate circulation and growth.
• Regular trims can help prevent split ends and further damage.

How to Heal Hair From Within

Another important aspect of having healthy hair is following a balanced, nutritious diet. According to the Trichological Society, a balanced diet should include protein, fruits, vegetables, grains, and a moderate amount of fat, as deficiencies in these nutrients can affect the health of your hair.

For optimal hair health, the Institute of Trichologists suggests eating a balanced breakfast daily, drinking enough water, reducing salt intake, consuming adequate amounts of lean protein, getting enough iron and vitamin C, and having a varied diet that includes different types of food. This allows your body to absorb a wide range of nutrients.

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Source: 

https://www.southernliving.com

https://www.kiehls.com