Coun-ter Cul-ture, noun; a culture with values and mores that counter those of established society

As a curly/wavy-haired chica who is chemical-free, I cannot tell you the amount of times people ask me how I tend to my tresses. Whether it’s the type of products I use or how often I get my hair trimmed, I get tons of questions on how I maintain my hair. One of the most asked questions happens to be how do I grow my hair. As someone who has grown her hair out several times over a span of 15 years, I have tried just about everything and have finally come to terms with what works for me.

Now that’s the important thing for each of you to understand. What works for me is not necessarily the right avenue for the next woman. From texture to genetics to my diet to my health, there are a multitude of reasons why my hair grows the way that it does versus someone else. I present my tips just as a starting point or guideline for someone to learn from.

I suggest that you tweak your hair growing tips according to your needs and the results that you seek. Also remember that genetically we all have a certain length where our hair will not grow past – this is something you cannot change or control. It’s just a part of who you are. Some of us can grow our hair down our backs while others may only get slightly past the shoulder. Learn to embrace your natural length and if you want your hair to grow longer, there’s always extensions!

• Healthy eating. You really are what you eat and that especially rings true when it comes to your hair. From proteins to healthy fats, the right foods will drastically improve the overall quality of your hair. Think of it this way, your hair needs vitamins, antioxidants and nutrients to grow strong and thick is through eating natural foods. Stick to fruits, vegetables, whole grains and healthy fats.

• Limit Your Trims. Stylists constantly recommend trimming hair every 6-8 weeks as they are trying to get rid of split-ends which can eventually cause major breakage. The problem with this model is that every your stylist trims your ends, you’re losing length. You will never see significant growth unless you leave your hair alone for long periods of time. I don’t trim my hair at all these days since I am in the growing phase. Once I reach my desired length, I will only get my hair trimmed once or twice a year max! This makes a world of difference; you will be amazed when you try this. Now if your hair is seriously damaged, I suggest getting the big chop and starting from scratch so that all of your new growth is healthy and chemical-free.
• Pre-Natal Vitamins. This is an age-old remedy and a great one as it really works! I recommend using a vegan pre-natal that can be taken on an empty stomach as these types of pre-natal vitamins tend to absorb into the system better than traditional selections. If you’re eating healthy foods, taking a digestive enzyme, a probiotic and taking a pre-natal vitamin, you will be amazed at how drastically different your hair will look and feel in only a matter of months.

• Co-Washing. I don’t wash my hair with shampoo on a daily basis which has really increased my growth potential. I like to co-wash my hair on a daily basis especially when I am working out as it helps me rid my hair of sweat, dirt and product build-up without stripping my hair of its natural oils like shampooing tends to do. Use a lightweight leave-in conditioner for your daily washes and a deep conditioner at least once a week for additional treatment.

• Limit Restrictive Styles – I don’t wear my hair in tight ponytails, braids or any other type of constrictive hairstyle. The more you pull your hair back in these tight styles, the more likely you are causing major damage to the hair follicles especially those around the temples. Let your hair breathe and relax. Try loose chignons, relaxed curly styles and easy breezy buns and watch your tresses lengthen.

Good luck growing out your hair ladies! Feel free to share your hair growth tips! I am always open to new ideas and techniques.