If you've ever tried growing out your curls, you know the process can feel slow. Despite the fact that hair grows about half an inch each month, curls seem to take their sweet time. The culprit? Curls grow at the same rate as straight hair, but their spirals make that growth appear shorter.
Curly hair deserves special care to reach long lengths and stay healthy. Here’s a guide with expert tips to help you grow your curls longer and stronger!
Hydration is Key: Prevent Breakage for Longer Curls
Breakage is the ultimate enemy of hair growth. Curly hair, with its twists and turns, is more prone to breakage, especially if it’s not properly hydrated. When curls dry out, they snap — and that’s growth you lose. According to Dr. Michelle Henry, a board-certified dermatologist, curly hair is "flat and ribbon-like" with thinner points that can break more easily.
Action Step:
Keep your curls well-hydrated with products that penetrate the hair shaft. A rich deep-conditioning treatment weekly is a game changer. Look for ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, and aloe vera that provide moisture and help strengthen hair. Remember, hydrated hair resists breakage, meaning you’ll retain more length.
Growth Tips: Avoid These Breakage Culprits
Growing curly hair long is often about what *not* to do. Here are some common pitfalls:
- Avoid fine-tooth combs or brushes: Instead, opt for a wide-tooth comb or your fingers. These tools are gentler and won’t snag on curls.
- Reduce heat styling: Hot tools can dry out your curls. When you do use heat, always apply a heat protectant.
- Loosen up tight styles:Â Ponytails and buns that pull at your roots or use rubber bands with metal clasps can weaken your hair. Opt for silk scrunchies or gentle ties instead.
Embrace Stretching Techniques
One of the quirks of curly hair is shrinkage. Curls can appear up to 75% shorter than their true length! To maximise visible length, use products designed to elongate curls, like a curl cream with hydrating ingredients.
Action Step:
After washing, try a stretching technique like braiding or banding to set your curls in a longer shape as they dry. This can reduce shrinkage while keeping your hair styled and controlled.
Feed Your Hair: Nutritional Tips for Healthy Growth
Long, strong hair starts with a balanced diet. According to trichologist Helen Wagmeister, foods rich in protein, iron, and vitamins B12, D, and E are essential. Curly hair thrives on nutrients like these, as well as healthy carbohydrates, which fuel hair growth.
Foods to Add:
- Complex carbs: Try whole grains like oatmeal and brown rice for sustained energy.
- Protein-rich foods:Â Salmon, chicken, and nuts like almonds provide the building blocks for hair growth.
- Iron:Â Spinach and lean meats are iron-rich foods that support healthy hair production.
- Biotin: This popular supplement can help improve hair strength. Consult your doctor before adding supplements, though, as results vary.
Keep Up with Regular Trims
It might seem counterintuitive, but regular trims are essential for growing out curly hair. Cutting off split ends prevents breakage from working its way up the hair shaft. Ask your stylist to dust off the ends and help reshape your curls so that your hair looks amazing at every stage of growth.
Growing curly hair requires attention and patience, but with these steps, you’ll keep your curls in top condition and reach the lengths you dream of. Start these habits now, and enjoy the journey toward longer, healthier curls!