Hair Growth Tips and Advice

 I have decided for the month of February to abstain from heat styling my hair. 

I have been trying to grow my hair since I cut it all off back in early 2011.It's about just past shoulder height now but I still have a long way to go to get it back to where it was before. 

So, I have been googling all of the tips and advice that I could find on how to get your hair to grow faster. 

This is what I found: 

• Add more fruit, yogurt, eggs and fish to your diet. 
• Give yourself regular scalp massages to increase the blood flow. 
• Make sure you have a regular sleep pattern, fitting in at least the necessary eight hours per night. 
• Do not comb your hair when it is wet, (now this one I didn't know about, but apparently brushing your hair when it is wet encourages more breakage and it really weakens the hair. Your hair is actually at its weakest when it is wet so this should be a big no-no ladies! If you're a little obsessive over your locks like I am then I'd suggest using a wide-tooth, non-metal comb to take care of it in its fragile state!)
• Try to use lukewarm water when washing your hair. Using hot water opens pores whereas cold water closes them, sealing in the proteins given from your hair products that you need.  
• Drink at least six glasses of water per day! 

•  You may decide to take vitamin supplements. I use a great brand that helps with hair, skin and nails. I'll do a review on it soon. I have used it as often as possible over the past few years and is available in most chemists or pharmacies.
• If you smoke, try to cut back (if you are serious about getting those long locks then this is a great motive to stop smoking!)
• Reduce your caffeine intake. 
• Regular trims help to eliminate split ends and also makes the hair appear healthier.  

• Use a brush with natural boar bristles.
• Don't braid your hair or put it into a ponytail when wet.
• Avoid all forms of chemical treatments... I know this is scary, but try to embrace natural hair. 
• Minimize or completely cut out heat styling your hair. 
• Don't wash your hair every day. Your hair needs the natural oils it produces as a conditioner. After a while your hair will become trained and won't look as dirty as it did before
• If you DO need to heat style your hair - please please please use heat protection spray!!! I use a great brand called Paul Mitchell and their heat protect product is called: Hot off the Press, (it smells divine!)

Photo Credit: www.missnattysbeautydiary.com

• Last but not least... remember to BE HAPPY! Try not to stress. Your body will respond to your happiness and you will bloom.

Good luck ladies!

Let me know if you have any other great tips and advice! I'd love to hear it all.