Hair Growth Tips for African Americans
The components that constitute the hair in all humans are the same. But, the color, texture and type differs as per the constitution of these components or the structure of hair. So, each hair type needs different hair care and this applies to African-American hair too. Contrary to the popular belief, African-American hair is more fragile, even though, it is coarser and thicker. Being frizzy and kinky, it is difficult for the oil from the scalp to reach the hair tips. All these features result in a dry, frizzy and brittle hair, which is difficult to manage. Hair loss and thinning is very common in these people and so, the following hair care tips can be beneficial for them.
Tips for Hair Growth in African-Americans
African-American hair is difficult to manage, due to its texture and constitution. Apart from that poor hair care and excessive or improper use of hair care products add up to their woes. Above all, regular straightening, blow drying, perming and use of wigs make the situation worse. In short, health and growth of hair depends on factors like proper nutrition, proper hair care as per the hair type, health of the person, hereditary factors and lifestyle.
- The most important among the hair growth tips for African-Americans is to switch over to a healthy diet, which includes vitamins for hair growth. Your diet must supply you with sufficient amounts of vitamin E, B vitamins, vitamin C, beta carotene, omega-3-fatty acids, magnesium, sulfur, zinc and silica, for the healthy growth of hair.
- Proper hair care is essential for all hair types, but is more vital for African-American hair, which is difficult to manage. It includes regular oiling, washing and moisturizing.
- Instead of using the traditional petroleum based hair greases and mineral oil based hair lotions, you have to go for natural oils, like, coconut oil, olive oil and jojoba oil. Shea butter is also found to effective for this purpose. You may also try some good quality moisturizing products, specially meant for African-American hair.
- Washing should be done at least once a week. Use a shampoo, which is specially meant for such hair. But, never forget to condition it after washing. Leave in hair conditioners are best suited for African-American hair.
- Reserve blow drying for special occasions and instead of that, use a towel to dry the hair. Use a wide-toothed comb to detangle the hair or gently insert your finger into the hair and loosen the knots.
- Avoid use of harsh chemicals or hair care products with harsh chemicals on the hair, because, it may cause irreparable harm. Hair care products with the following ingredients must be avoided at any cost. Chemicals like, methyl, propyl, butyl, ethylparaben, polyethylene glycol, propylene glycol, sodium lauryl sulfate or sodium laureth sulfate, synthetic colors, DEA (diethanolamine), MEA (monoethanolamine), TEA (triethanolmine) and isopropyl alcohol, may cause harm to the hair.
- Oil massage can work wonders for African-American hair. Use warm coconut oil or olive oil for this purpose. Gently rub the oil into the scalp and keep it overnight or for at least one hour, before applying a shampoo. You can repeat the process every month.
- Avoid regular use of heating devices like flat iron, hair straighteners and blow dryer. Never forget to trim the hair, every two to three months to get rid of the split ends, which can cause damage to the hair. Cover your hair, while going out in the sun and during sleep (if you are using cotton pillows, use silk scarf to cover the hair).
Hair care for both men and women are almost the same, but as women tend to keep long hair, they have to be more careful, in order to maintain the health of their hair. Another problem confronted by women is the hormone changes associated with menstruation, pregnancy and menopause, which can affect the growth of hair. In short, women have to take extra care of their hair, as compared to men. It will be beneficial for them, if they refrain from using hair extensions, which can damage the hair, if used regularly. Stick to a healthy diet and adopt the above said measures for growing healthy and strong hair.
Apart from these hair growth tips, you have adopt a healthy lifestyle by quitting smoking and excess alcohol consumption. Regular exercise, good sleep and intake of lots of water and fluids can also prove beneficial. As stress can also affect the health of hair, you may go for some stress releasing methods like yoga. If you are facing heavy hair fall and thinning, consult a doctor to rule out the possibility of any underlying medical condition.
