If you dream of long, healthy curls, you’re certainly not alone. But did you know that hair growth isn’t just about what you put in your hair? It’s a combination of scalp care, understanding the hair growth cycle, and how well you protect your hair from damage. In this blog, we’ll explain how to care for your curls to grow healthy, full, and longer.
1. Understand the hair growth cycle
The speed at which your hair grows is largely determined by the hair growth cycle . Hair grows in three phases:
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Anagen phase (growth phase): In this phase, the hair actively grows out of the hair follicle. This takes an average of 2 to 7 years, depending on your genetics. The longer this phase lasts, the longer your hair can grow.
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Catagen phase (transition phase): In this short phase of a few weeks, hair growth stops and the hair prepares to be shed.
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Telogen phase (resting phase): During this phase (on average 3-4 months) the hair rests, after which it eventually falls out to make way for new hair.
💡 Did you know? It’s normal to lose 50-100 hairs a day. But if you notice that you’re losing a lot more hair, it could be a sign of a problem with your scalp or hair health.
2. The importance of a healthy scalp
A healthy scalp is the foundation for healthy hair growth. Your hair follicles – where hair grows – need the right environment to produce strong, healthy hair.
How do you care for your scalp?
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Cleanse regularly: A buildup of oils, dead skin cells, and product residue can clog your hair follicles and slow hair growth. Use a sulfate-free shampoo to keep your scalp clean without drying it out.
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Stimulate blood circulation: Massage your scalp daily or while washing. This stimulates blood circulation and can support hair growth.
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Hydrate your scalp: A dry or irritated scalp can disrupt new hair growth. Use light oils like jojoba or peppermint to nourish your scalp.
💡 Pro Tip : Rosemary oil is a natural hair growth stimulant and can stimulate your scalp for stronger hair growth. Mix a few drops with a carrier oil like coconut or almond and massage into your scalp.
3. Why Trimming Your Ends Is Crucial
Many people think that growing your hair out means avoiding the scissors. But nothing could be further from the truth! Regularly trimming your ends is essential if you want healthy, longer hair.
Why is this important?
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Split ends spread: If you don’t cut off split ends, they can spread further and cause damage higher up in the hair. This makes your hair more fragile and more likely to break.
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It maintains the health of your hair: By regularly trimming your ends, you remove the weakest parts of your hair and keep the rest stronger.
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Your hair looks fuller and healthier: Even a little trim can give your curls a fresh, healthy look.
💡 Pro Tip : Schedule a haircut every 8 to 12 weeks to keep your hair healthy without losing length.
4. Hydrate and protect against breakage
Curly and afro textured hair is naturally drier and more prone to breakage. If you want to maintain length, it is essential to hydrate and protect your hair.
How to keep your hair healthy and strong:
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Use a deep conditioner: Add a weekly hair mask or deep conditioner to your routine to deeply nourish your curls and keep them supple.
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Apply the LOC or LCO method: Apply a Leave-in conditioner, followed by an Oil and a Cream to lock in moisture in your hair.
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Protect your hair at night: Sleep on a satin pillowcase or wear a satin bonnet to prevent friction and dryness.
💡 Pro tip : Avoid rubbing your hair dry with a towel. Instead, use a microfiber towel or an old t-shirt to gently pat your hair dry.
5. Nourish your hair from within
What you eat has a direct impact on the health of your hair. To get strong, long curls, you need to make sure your body gets all the nutrients it needs to produce healthy hair.
Nutrients for healthy hair:
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Proteins: Your hair is made up of keratin, a protein. Add foods like eggs, chicken, fish, and nuts to your diet.
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Iron and Zinc: These minerals promote hair growth by transporting oxygen and nutrients to the hair follicles. Spinach, lentils, and oysters are great sources.
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Vitamin D and Biotin: These support the health of hair follicles and strengthen the hair.
💡 Extra tip : Drink lots of water! A hydrated body also means a hydrated scalp and hair.
6. Be patient and consistent
Hair growth takes time. Your hair grows an average of 1 to 1.5 cm per month, and there is no magic bullet to drastically speed up this process. The key to success is consistency: take care of your scalp, protect your hair from breakage, and stick to your routine.
Track your progress by taking a photo of your hair length each month. This can be motivating and help you see how your hair is getting stronger and healthier over time.
Let your curls grow and shine!
Long, healthy, voluminous hair is within your reach if you understand how hair growth works and plan your routine accordingly. Nourish your scalp, hydrate your hair, protect your curls from damage, and be kind to yourself in the process.
Are you looking for products that can support your hair in every phase of the hair growth cycle? Discover our extensive collection of shampoos, conditioners, oils and masks specifically for curly and afro-textured hair. Everything you need for healthy, full and radiant locks!
