Unlocking the Secrets: The Science Behind Hair Growth
In the pursuit of luscious locks, understanding the intricacies of hair growth is key. From ancient remedies to modern-day breakthroughs, the quest for promoting hair growth has been a timeless endeavour. So, let’s delve into the fascinating world of follicles and unravel the science behind hair growth.
Understanding the Hair Growth Cycle
Before delving into the strategies to promote hair health (don’t worry, I’ll spill the secrets), it’s essential to grasp the basics of the hair growth cycle. The cycle consists of three main phases:
- Anagen Phase: This is the active growth phase where hair follicles divide rapidly, resulting in new hair growing. The duration of the Anagen phase varies from person to person but can last anywhere from two to seven years. The key to promoting hair growth lies in prolonging this phase.
- Catagen Phase: Following the Anagen phase is the Catagen phase, also known as the transitional phase. As seen in the image above, the hair shaft is pushed upwards in this stage, which causes growth to stop. This phase lasts for about two to three weeks.
- Telogen Phase: Lastly, we have the Telogen phase, often referred to as the resting phase. In this stage, growth ceases, and the old hair is shed to make way for new growth. Approximately, 10-15% of our hair is in the phase at any given time, and it lasts for about three to four months.
Now that we understand the the growth cycle, let’s explore some ways to get that hair growing!
How to Promote Hair Growth
Scalp Care:
A healthy scalp provides the ideal environment for growth. A great way to care for your scalp is partaking in regular scalp massages. Massaging the scalp with hair oils and masks stimulates the scalp and may improve hair thickness.
In 2019, a study conducted by the National Library of Medicine revealed that scalp massaging benefited hair growth, blood circulation and scalp health in people.
Additionally, using gentle shampoos will cleanse the scalp effectively without causing damage or irritation, thereby maintaining scalp health. My P’mint Shampoo is the perfect shampoo if you’re looking to increase growth. Its specialised formula is designed to soothe, revitalise and unclog your clogged scalp, providing targeted care. And there’s more! The incorporation of peppermint and sunflower seed oil aids in reducing hair loss, contributing to its countless benefits.
Always Use Heat Protection:
Using protection products can indirectly promote growth by safeguarding it from damage caused by heat styling tools and environmental stressors.
Hair protection products create a barrier between the hair shaft and heat, preventing the hair from breakage and damage. As well as this, they often contain moisturising ingredients that help seal the moisture into the hair shaft and prevent dehydration. By maintaining optimal moisture levels, these products support hair elasticity and strength, reducing the likelihood of hair damage and promoting healthy hair growth.
Treatments:
Once again, I’m here to save the day. My new protein + moisture clear gloss treatment mask is highly effective and beneficial when it comes to hair health and growth. Let me prove it to you:
Protein is crucial for strengthening the hair shaft and repairing damage caused by factors such as heat, styling, chemical treatments and environmental stressors. This mask helps replenish lost protein in the hair, filling in gaps and cracks along the hair cuticle. This, in turn, improves the structural integrity of the hair, reducing breakage and split ends, and promoting healthier, stronger strands.
But, protein doesn’t do all the work. Moisture helps keep the hair hydrated, soft and manageable, reducing frizz and preventing dryness and brittleness. My protein + moisture mask combines the benefits of protein and hydration, delivering a potent blend of ingredients that nourish and moisturise the hair from within. This dual-action formula helps restore moisture balance to the hair, leaving it feeling silky smooth, revitalised, and more resistant to damage.
Tell me you’re not convinced.
Regular Trims:
Cut off those split ends! Split ends not only make the hair appear frizzy and unkempt but can also travel up the hair shaft, causing further damage and breakage. By eliminating damaged ends, trims contribute to healthier, stronger hair that is less prone to breakage and retains length more effectively.
Last but not least, regular trims play a crucial role in promoting stronger hair and maintaining overall hair health. Here’s how:
While trims may seem counterintuitive to those aiming for longer hair, they are essential for promoting healthy hair growth. By trimming the ends regularly, you create a conducive environment for new growth, allowing your hair to reach its full potential in terms of length and thickness.