We understand that the desire for long, healthy hair is universal, and hair extensions have become a popular solution for instant length and volume. However, it’s essential to strike a balance between embracing your new look and nurturing the growth of your natural hair. In this blog, we bring you 7 effortless hair growth tips that will not only help your hair extensions stay in top-notch condition but also support the growth and vitality of your own hair. Whether you’re a seasoned extension enthusiast or new to the world of hair enhancements, these valuable insights will ensure that you can enjoy your mesmerizing mane to the fullest while paving the way for gorgeous, flourishing tresses.
I. How Does Hair Grow?
Hair growth is a fascinating and complex biological process that occurs in cycles. Understanding the basic mechanics of hair growth can help us take better care of our hair and promote its health. There are four different phases. The anagen phase is the active growth phase of the hair cycle, after the anagen phase, the hair follicle enters the catagen phase which the hair growth stabilizes. The length of these phases is determined by your genetics, which is why some people can grow their hair down to their waist while others struggle to get passed their shoulders!
The telogen phase is where the hair sheds and, finally, there is the early anagen phase, which lasts around one to four months. This inactivity allows the follicles to regenerate so new, healthy hair can grow. The secret to supporting the growth phase and staving off the shedding phase is to take good care of your scalp and strands, inside and out. Keep reading for the 7 tips to help your hair grow long and strong.
II. Can Hair Grow While Wearing Hair Extensions?
Hair extensions do not hinder hair growth; on the contrary, they can be a valuable aid in achieving long, luscious locks. Properly applied hair extensions serve as a protective shield for your natural hair, shielding it from potential damage caused by daily styling, heat, and environmental factors. By offering this safeguard, hair extensions create a favorable environment for your hair to flourish.
While waiting for your natural hair to grow, you can style your hair with ease using extensions. They provide a respite from the stressors that may impede hair growth, promoting a healthier and faster growth process. Nevertheless, it’s crucial to utilize hair extensions correctly to support your hair growth goals effectively.
III. 7 Effortless Hair Growth Tips While Wearing Hair Extensions
Besides the proper use of extensions, nurturing your natural hair is vital to ensure optimal growth. By incorporating these hair growth tips, you’ll reap the rewards of hair extensions while your natural hair flourishes, granting you the beautiful locks you’ve always dreamt of.
1. Hair Growth Tips #1: Brush Your Hair
Maintaining tangle-free hair is paramount when wearing hair extensions, as it directly impacts the health and growth of your natural locks. Regular brushing is the key to preventing knots and tangles from wreaking havoc on your hair. By incorporating brushing into your daily routine, you’ll not only promote hair growth but also extend the lifespan of your hair extensions.
However, the type of brush or comb you use is equally crucial. Traditional brushes and combs can be harsh on both your hair and extensions, causing excessive pulling and snags that lead to damage. To avoid such pitfalls, opt for a hair extension loop brush specially designed with gentle loops that gracefully glide through your hair. This trusted companion will ensure no pulling, breakage, or harm occurs, making it an essential tool for maintaining healthy hair growth while flaunting your extensions.
#2: Avoid Overwashing Your Hair
To preserve the health and growth of your hair while wearing extensions, it’s essential to minimize the frequency of hair washing. Ideally, limit your hair-washing routine to 2 to 3 times a week. Overwashing can lead to dryness in your natural hair and strip the natural oils from your extensions, as they lack the ability to produce oils naturally. Frequent washing robs your hair of its essential moisture, causing it to become brittle and prone to breakage, ultimately hindering hair growth. By reducing the number of washes, you create a nurturing environment for your hair and extensions to flourish, maintaining their strength and vitality.
Read Now: How Often Should You Wash Your Hair?
Hair Growth Tips #3: Use Sulfate-Free Shampoo & Conditioner
Typical shampoos and conditioners are terrible for hair and extensions because it dries them out. Most of those products contain sulfate that strips out the oil and moisture in your hair and extensions, which can further lead to frizzing and breakage of the hair. You can refer to this article to understand the reasons why you should use sulfate-free shampoo.
Instead of the typical products you use, invest in high-quality products. Sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners will keep your hair and extensions hydrated and moisturized. They will ensure that your hair extensions are always looking healthy, smooth, and long-lasting.
#4: Use Cold Water
Avoid using hot water when washing your hair because it is the same as using heat styling tools, which are bad for your hair. Instead, use cold water to protect your hair and extensions. Because using cold water on your hair closes the pores, your scalp will stay cleaner for longer and be less susceptible to grease, oil, and dirt. Cold water does not necessarily promote hair growth, but it is certainly beneficial to your hair.
Hair Growth Tips #5: Avoid Harshly Drying Your Hair With A Towel
Indeed, how you dry your hair after washing is crucial, especially when you’re wearing hair extensions. Vigorously drying your hair with a towel can lead to tangles, pulling, and potential damage, as wet hair is more susceptible to breakage. Remember, both your natural hair and extensions are most vulnerable when damp.
After washing, pat your hair with a towel to remove excess water without causing undue stress. Avoid rubbing or wringing your hair, as these actions can lead to tangling and breakage. Allow your hair to air dry naturally, providing it with the time it needs to regain strength and resilience. Once your hair is fully dry, you can confidently use a brush to eliminate any tangles.
Embracing this thoughtful approach to drying will help maintain the health and beauty of your hair and extensions, allowing them to coexist harmoniously as you nurture their growth.
#6: Avoid Using Heat Styling Tools Excessively
Using too much heat on your hair is immensely damaging to your hair and extensions. Heat causes your hair to dry out really quickly and lead to breakage, so try not to use them excessively. Try your best to stay away from heat as much as possible because it can damage your hair, which stops it from growing, causes split ends, and breaks your hair. If unavoidable, it is always recommended to use the coolest settings when using these tools to avoid drying and damage. If you decide to use any heat styling tools, it is highly recommended that you use a heat protectant spray first. This will protect your hair from damage and drying out.
Hair Growth Tips #7: Proper Nutrition & Exercise
If you desire faster hair growth, ensuring that your body receives all the essential nutrients is crucial. Your hair’s growth rate can be affected by the foods you consume, so it’s essential to maintain a balanced and nutritious diet. Incorporate protein-rich foods like lean meats, eggs, legumes, nuts, and seeds into your diet to support hair growth.
You can also accelerate the growth of your hair by exercising. Exercise increases circulation, which facilitates the delivery of nutrients to the hair follicles and promotes faster hair growth. By combining a well-balanced diet with regular exercise, you create a holistic approach to hair growth that nourishes your body from within.
IV. Conclusion
In conclusion, achieving long, healthy hair while wearing hair extensions is indeed possible with the right care and attention. By following these seven effortless tips above, you can nurture your natural hair and extensions, creating an environment conducive to optimal hair growth.