First, keep in mind that curly hair grows more slowly than straight hair because it doesn't grow straight down. The texture and density of curls make them grow outward instead. But technically, curly hair grows at the same rate as straight hair. It just takes longer to tell.
Second, be patient! Growing long, curly hair is a process, but it is possible. So, strap in! Vida Bars has a hefty list of suggestions for how to grow long curly hair.
Improve Your Cut and Style
The cutting and styling of your curly mane are paramount for it to grow successfully. Unfortunately, you can't just cross your fingers and hope for overnight inches. Improving your cut and style is the first step in the right direction.
Improving your cut and style means:
- Put Down the Scissors. Do not try to cut your hair by yourself, even if it seems a mess as it's growing. Instead, find a cosmetologist who specializes in cutting curly hair.
- Specificity is Key. Cosmetologists don't cut and style every curly head the same way. Find the cut and style that fits your curl type, preferred length, personality, etc.
- Keep Hair in Prime Health. Avoid or limit using fine tooth combs, heat styling, tight ponies, and excessive coloring. It's also essential to avoid harmful products and ingredients.
- Just Keep Trimming, Trimming, Trimming. Even though it seems counterintuitive for growth, keep getting regular trims. Use the Vida Bars Growth Set to balance and strengthen your freshly trimmed curls.
- Hydration is your BFF. Breakage begins when hydration ends. Use products such as the Vida Bars Hydrate Set to keep your curls nourished and intact.
Understand the Role of Diet and Supplements
Yup, you read that right. You can improve your hair growth from the inside out.
When you fill your body with the appropriate nutrient-rich foods and supplements, hair growth will come a little easier. The combination of internal and external nourishment is what your luscious locks need to reach the Rapunzel length you want.
When growing your hair, remember to:
- Eat Up, Buttercup. Eat foods rich in protein, iron, and vitamins B12, D, and E. The hair needs them for growth and strength. Foods like lean meat, salmon, spinach, almonds, and walnuts are good to start.
- Drink Up. If you feel like you're drinking enough water, you're probably not! Plenty of H2O keeps your whole body, including your hair, from getting dehydrated.
- Keto is a No-Go. Do not cut out carbs if you're trying to grow your hair. Carb cutting may be a popular way to lose weight quickly, but it's not healthy for some parts of the body, including your hair. Eating complex carbohydrates such as oatmeal and brown rice will help with hair growth.
- Supplement Support. Adding a supplement to your routine can support your hair growth goals. Supplements with keratin, biotin, collagen peptides, hyaluronic acid, alphabetic vitamins, or combinations of these can help. Remember that supplements require consistency if you want to see results. You have to take them daily for at least six months.
Complete a Nighttime Hair Routine
Don't forget about your bedtime hair routine. Being perfectly styled during the day doesn't have to be entirely ruined when you go to sleep. Wear your hair in a loose braid, low pony, or another way that doesn't completely tangle it. Satin pillowcases or bonnets also help reduce frizz and breakage.
Use a Plopping and Diffusing Routine
After washing and conditioning, add a leave-in conditioner or curl cream to your mane and plop it into a microfiber towel or T-shirt. Once you plop your curls for enough time to set them and soak up excess water, you can add your styling products and dry your hair with a diffusing attachment on your hairdryer. Remember to keep the heat on a low setting.
Treat Your Follicles
Thoroughly clean your scalp on occasion to keep follicles healthy. A clarifying shampoo can help with that. You also can keep your follicles healthy with weekly scalp massages.
Wear a Protective Style
Protective styles keep the ends of your hair tucked away to discourage tugging, pulling, and manipulation. They also encourage hair growth if you use them on occasion. They might not be the best idea 24/7. Just like your hair may need a break from its natural style, it also needs a break from protective hairstyles. Your scalp and long locks need relief!
How Vida Bars Can Help You Grow Long, Curly Hair
No one expects you to memorize a list such as this one. But, if you can incorporate even some of these suggestions into your hair growth journey, they will help you achieve the length you're looking for.
Curly hair can sometimes be challenging, but don't give up on its potential just yet. Growth is just one of the many specific techniques that come with the curly girl world. You're unique enough to require a routine that not just anybody can use. Vida Bars is here to help with a full line of hair care products specifically for curly hair.