10 Reasons Why Your Hair isn’t Growing Longer

Growing long healthy hair is hard work for all of us who are not naturally blessed with the best locks. Everyone’s hair grows at a different speed. On average, hair on the scalp grows about 0.3-0.4 mm/day or about 6 inches per year. At any given time, all of our hair is in various stages of growth and shedding. For most people, their hair grows, but it’s dull and dry.

Here are 10 reasons why your hair isn’t growing longer:

Blow dryers, curlers, and straighteners are great for taming your locks but on the other side, some damage is being done. Regular use of heat is a major cause of brittle and dry hair. Limit the use of hot tools and let your hair dry naturally. Minimize the use of heat by trying heat free hairstyles. Make sure to apply a heat protectant before using heat on your hair.

Staying clean is super important but having oily hair is actually good. Washing your hair every day strips your hair from natural essential oils. These oils keep your hair healthy and promote growth. Over washing causes your scalp to produce more oil, resulting in greasy hair and scalp, which isn’t good. Try to wash your hair 2-3 times a week. Use a dry shampoo in between to absorb excess oil.

Your hair grows from the root, so the tips are the oldest part of your hair, lacking nourishment. When the ends get dry, the hair shaft splits in two or sometimes three. Once you get split ends, you cannot repair them. The only solution is to get a trim. If your hair is prone to split ends, make sure to moisturize the ends of your hair with a few drops of coconut oil or Argan oil before bedtime. Apply conditioner after shampoo.

It is believed that getting a trim every 6-8 weeks is crucial for healthy hair. It’s not important for everyone, especially if your hair is in a good condition. When you’re taking good care of your hair, keeping it nourished and moisturized, you don’t need a trim. Every 6-8 week trim is required for those trying to maintain a hairstyle or length, not for growing out hair. You should only get a trim if you notice split ends.

Frequent hair dyeing and the use of styling products can make your hair rough and prone to breakage. Give your hair a break from chemical dyes and use natural hair dyes like henna. Shampoos and conditioning products contain silicone which coats your hair to appear shiny, blocking nutrients and making your hair dull.

Most of the cheap shampoos and conditioners contain silicones and sulfates, preventing your hair from growing like it should. Do your research and read labels to look out for ingredients which strip your hair.

Silicone hides behind many ingredient names, so check out our guide to choosing a silicone-free shampoo. We have also compiled a list of 15 sulfate and silicone-free shampoos that you can find at drugstores and online.

Stress can literally show up on your body. Stress affects your health which can result in breakouts on your face, dry skin, hair loss and weight gain. Get your stress under control and relax. Indulge in stress-busting activities daily like yoga, walking or meditation for at least 30 minutes a day.

Your hair may not be growing due to an undiagnosed medical condition. If you’re experiencing postpartum hair loss or your hair isn’t growing after taking a certain medication, it’s best to consult a doctor. Dramatic weight loss, intense illness or physical trauma like surgery can have an effect on hair growth.

Vitamin supplements along with a good diet help your hair to grow. Vitamin B, C, B3, B7 (Biotin), and H are essential for hair growth. A well-balanced diet with these vitamins is essential for long and shiny hair.

A good well-balanced diet is essential for general well being and enhanced hair growth. Cut down the intake of processed foods including sugar and sodium. Include eggs, fish, fresh fruits and vegetables in your diet to encourage hair growth.

Drinking around 8 glasses of water every day clear out toxins from your body. To help your hair grow longer, make sure to stay hydrated. You’ll notice visible differences within a few months.

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