Let’s begin by understanding what sets afro hair apart from other hair types, like Caucasian hair.
Afro hair, with its corkscrew shape, doesn’t emerge from the follicle as easily as straight hair. This is why it differs so much from European, straight hair that grows “straight out.” An afro or curly hair grows closely to the scalp, creating a compact coil that not only covers the scalp but also helps protect it from harsh sun rays. The tighter the curl, the shorter it appears due to the natural shrinking effect. This gives the illusion that the hair isn’t growing, although in reality, it is.
On average, afro hair grows about 0.8 cm per month. This slower growth rate is one of the reasons why it seems like the hair isn’t growing as fast as desired. However, if you stretch the hair, you will notice its actual length.
Moreover, afro hair naturally tends to shrink by up to 70% of its length in humid conditions, which adds to the optical illusion of short hair.
Afro hair is also drier and finer compared to other hair types, making it more fragile and susceptible to breakage. The repeated use of styling methods like straightening, perming, and braiding can lead to more damage if the appropriate care isn’t given. The result? It may seem like the hair isn’t growing or regenerating, but often, the real issue is breakage, not lack of growth.
Understanding the Diversity of Afro Hair
The world of afro hair is incredibly diverse. The simplified hair typing systems don’t fully capture the variety within this hair type. It’s crucial to understand your unique hair characteristics before starting any treatments or care routines to stimulate hair growth.
To effectively care for your afro hair and support its growth, consider the following:
Curl Pattern: Are the curls tight, frizzy, or looser? The tighter the curl, the drier and more fragile the hair tends to be.
Porosity: Afro hair is often more porous, meaning it absorbs moisture quickly but also loses it just as fast, causing dryness and dehydration.
Climate: The environment plays a big role in hair health. In colder, drier climates, the scalp’s pores may tighten, preventing oil secretion and causing the hair to dry out.
Natural vs. Processed: Over-styling or chemical treatments can make hair drier, leading to more breakage. So, knowing if your hair is naturally curly or chemically treated helps determine the best course of action.
Why Afro Hair May Not Grow As Expected
Once you realize that afro hair does grow, but at a slower rate, the next step is figuring out how to stimulate its growth and give it the care it deserves.
Afro hair that seems to be growing slowly often faces several challenges, including:
Irregular or inadequate hair care
Unsuitable cosmetic treatments
The use of harsh, drying chemical products and improper hair routines (e.g., frequent washing with the wrong shampoo, lack of hydration)
Extensions, braids, and other weighty styles that weaken the hair
Excessive heat styling tools like blow dryers and flat irons
Aggressive combing and brushing methods that damage the keratin structure
How to Improve Afro Hair Growth and Avoid Breakage
Improving afro hair growth requires not just stimulating hair growth but also avoiding actions that could damage it. Here’s how to achieve that:
Proper Hair Care: Treat your hair gently, as you would your skin. Your hair needs hydration, nourishment, and protection, much like your skin does. This includes using serums, masks, oils, and creams regularly.
Healthy Lifestyle: Hair growth starts at the follicle, nourished by the blood supply. Maintain a healthy lifestyle by:
Consuming essential nutrients and vitamins (like methionine, cysteine, zinc, iron, magnesium, and more) through a balanced diet or supplements.
Ensuring you get enough B vitamins and vitamin B12, especially if you follow a vegetarian diet.
Drinking plenty of water to keep hair hydrated from the roots.
Checking iron and vitamin D levels, as these are crucial for healthy hair.
Managing stress with regular physical activity, as it impacts hair health.
Hair Hydration: Afro hair is highly prone to dehydration. To avoid this:
Hydrate your hair frequently using natural oils like castor, jojoba, or olive oil. You can even spritz your hair with water throughout the day to keep it soft and manageable.
Choose products suited to your hair type, like nourishing masks and oils.
Avoid over-washing your hair, as this strips away natural oils that keep it moisturized.
Gentle Combing: Always use the right tools to detangle your afro hair gently. Prefer using afro combs or your fingers, especially on wet hair, and start from the tips and move upwards.
Minimize Heat and Chemical Treatments: Reduce the use of heat styling tools and avoid chemical treatments like perms and relaxers, as they can weaken and damage the hair.
Protective Measures: Always protect your hair during sleep by using a silk or satin scarf. Cotton pillowcases absorb moisture from your hair, causing it to dry out and become brittle.
Trim Regularly: Trim split ends and apply oils or butters to your hair ends to keep them nourished and healthy.
Alternative Coloring Methods: Opt for vegetable-based dyes instead of harsh chemical ones to prevent damage to your hair structure.
Sun Protection: When out in the sun, protect your hair with a hat or scarf to avoid damage from UV rays.
Free Your Hair: Avoid wearing wigs, tight braids, or extensions for prolonged periods. Give your scalp time to breathe and regenerate.
Conclusion: The Key to Healthy, Strong Afro Hair
In conclusion, adopting the right hair care routine with the right products, focusing on nourishing treatments, and making a few lifestyle changes can significantly improve the health and growth of your afro hair. Patience is key—hair needs time to recover and grow.
At Novesthetica, we understand the importance of proper hair care for all hair types, and we’re here to help guide you toward healthier, more vibrant hair. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you in achieving your hair goals!