6 Science-Backed Tips To Promote Hair Growth

Why Is My Hair Thinning?

Hair thinning is a common issue that affects both men and women, and is a natural part of aging for many. Determining the underlying cause(s) can help you take proactive measures to manage hair loss and get back to long, strong, healthy strands. Ready for a confidence booster? Read on for dermatologist-approved guidance to promote hair growth, reduce breakage, and achieve the luscious locks you've always wanted.

Common Causes of Hair Thinning

1. Genetic Factors

One of the most prevalent causes of hair thinning is genetic predisposition. Androgenetic alopecia, commonly known as male or female pattern baldness, is a hereditary condition that affects millions. If your family has a history of hair thinning, there's a higher chance you might experience it too.

2. Hormonal Changes

Hormonal imbalances can significantly impact hair health. Shifts such as pregnancy, menopause, and thyroid disorders can lead to temporary or permanent hair thinning. Hormonal changes affect the hair growth cycle, often leading to more shedding. 

3. Nutritional Deficiencies

Your diet plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy hair. A deficiency in essential nutrients such as iron, zinc, vitamin D, and proteins can lead to hair thinning. Ensuring a balanced diet rich in these nutrients can help support hair health.

4. Stress And Hair Loss

High levels of stress can push hair follicles into a resting phase, leading to increased hair shedding. This condition, known as telogen effluvium, is usually temporary but can be distressing. Managing stress through relaxation techniques, exercise, and mindfulness can improve the situation. Pssst. stress also impacts the skin.

5. Medical Conditions

Certain medical conditions, including autoimmune diseases like alopecia areata, can cause hair thinning. Additionally, some medications, including chemotherapy drugs and beta-blockers, may have hair loss as a side effect.

6. Hairstyles And Hair Treatments

Wearing hairstyles that pull on the hair or deposit harsh chemicals, such as perms or chemical hair straightening treatments, can damage the hair and lead to hair loss. 

6 Derm-Approved Ways To Promote Hair Growth

1. Start At The Source: The Scalp  

Hair growth stems from the follicles on our scalp. A healthy scalp = healthy hair follicles. Maintain a clean scalp by preventing buildup and promoting blood circulation with regular scalp massages. Use your fingers to gently massage your scalp for 2-3 minutes daily. While you're at it, incorporate rosemary or castor oil into your scalp massage. Studies show rosemary increases circulation, preventing hair follicles from being starved of blood supply and dying off. Similarly, castor oil is rich in ricinoleic acid, a fatty acid that improves blood circulation and promotes hair growth when applied to the scalp. Want to up your massage game? Use a scalp gua sha stone. 

2. Protect Your Hair From Heat Damage

Regular use of heated styling tools like straighteners, curling irons, and hair dryers can cause breakage, decrease moisture in your hair, and slow growth. To avoid this, use a heat protectant spray before using your styling tools, and try to air-dry your hair whenever possible. If air-drying isn't an option, use an ultra-absorbing microfiber hair towel that protects your wet hair and cuts your blow-dry time in half.

3. The Diet-Hair Loss Connection 

Nourish your hair from within. Your body needs adequate nutrients to support healthy hair. Hair is made of protein, so incorporating foods rich in protein, like chicken, fish, nuts, and legumes, can help strengthen and promote hair growth. Additionally, a colourful diet full of plants that are naturally high in antioxidants will combat oxidative stress and neutralize free radicals. Vitamins and minerals such as biotin and collagen provide the body with specific amino acids that make up keratin (the protein that helps form hair). Biotin, in particular, is known as the "hair growth vitamin" and can be found in foods like eggs, almonds, and sweet potatoes. We recommend consuming a food-based source of these vitamins and minerals as additional research is warranted to determine supplement (pill or powder-form) efficacy. 

4. Avoid Tight Hairstyles

Cute as they may be, hairstyles that pull on your hair, such as tight braids or buns, can cause tension and breakage, leading to slower growth. Choose hairstyles that are gentle and do not put too much stress on your hair and scalp. Best way to sleep to avoid hair damage? Why, on a satin pillowcase, of course, with hair worn loose. It's also helpful to choose a gentle hair brush to evenly distribute the natural oils present within the hair and avoid product buildup. 
GK ProTip: Always brush from the tips up. Starting from the root is a recipe for breakage and frayed ends. 

5. Use Products Designed To Promote Hair Growth

Incorporate a natural hair growth serum to stimulate hair growth for a fuller, thicker head of hair. The critical ingredient is rosemary, which encourages both active and inactive hair follicles to grow. Choose shampoos, conditioners, and hair masks specifically designed to promote hair growth, and avoid using products that contain harsh chemicals, as these can damage your hair and slow growth. Clean formulas use a combination of apple cider vinegar and vitamin B3 to help deeply cleanse and clarify the scalp without dehydrating the hair.

6. Reduce Stress

Easy peasy, right? High stress levels have been linked to hair loss and slower hair growth, so finding ways to manage stress through exercise, meditation, and therapy can help improve hair (and skin!) health. Take time for self-care, practice relaxation techniques, and make changes to your lifestyle to reduce stress. We know ... easier said than done.  

Our Takeaway

In the quest for longer, stronger hair (the tag #hairgrowth has over 1.2 billion views on TikTok, so clearly, we're not alone), there are several tried and true ways to promote healthy hair growth, from maintaining a balanced diet and prioritizing scalp health to avoiding heat damage and managing stress. Hair growth takes time, so be patient and consistent in your hair care routine. If you're experiencing significant hair loss, consult a dermatologist or trichologist who can help determine the best course of action for promoting healthy hair growth and address any underlying conditions that may be affecting hair health. For a personalized natural hair care routine that will help you regain confidence in your hair health, contact your knowledgeable Green Kiss Educator today.
 

All copy found on The Green Kiss website is written for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.