How to make your hair grow faster

Individual differences exist in the natural process of hair development. On average, they grow half an inch in a month, but their growth depends on genetics, diet, hair care, etc. Understanding these elements can help you maximize your hair development.

The Science Behind Hair Growth

The follicles inserted into the scalp are where hair grows. The growth is driven by the nutrients provided through the blood and regulated by hormones. The growth rate is directly proportional to the health of the follicles, so their health plays an important role. Hair is composed of a fibrous protein called keratin. It is also found in your nails and outer skin layer. They are regulated by the stem cells, hormones, and genetics that also affect the hair follicle.

Hormonal influence:

DHT plays an important role in hair thinning and loss.

Cellular activity:

Dermal papilla cells in hair follicles interact with epithelial stem cells to promote hair growth. 

Genetic Factors:

Genetics plays an important role in the growth of hair. It determines the anagen phase and follicle sensitivity.

Factors Affecting Hair Growth

• Genetics

• Age

• Hormonal changes

• Nutritional intake

• Stress levels

• Hair care routine

• Scalp health

• External damage (heat, chemicals, pollution)

Understanding the Hair Growth Cycle

Hair growth occurs in different phases. The overall health and length are determined by the phases of cells.

Anagen (Growth Phases)

Because hair follicles create new cells during this phase, the majority of hair growth takes place. The length of this phase is 2–7 years. These changes happened during this phase.

Matrix cells start dividing rapidly in this phase, which is present in the hair bulbs.

Melanocytes: They provide the developing hair shaft with its pigments.

The follicle is nourished by blood vessels in the dermal papilla.

Catagen (Transition Phase)

The shortest stage of hair development is this one. In this phase, the follicles start shrinking and provide the signal to end the active growth. It lasts for 2 weeks. The follicles detach from the blood supply, which halts the outer root sheath collapse. 

Exogen (Shedding Phase)

It is the final phase of hair growth. In this phase, new hair strands are grown. Every day, between 50 and 100 hairs fall out as part of this cycle. A new anagen hair pushes the old hair out of the follicle. 

Nutritional Factors for Hair Growth

Dietary habits have a significant impact on keratin and hair follicle synthesis. They need proper vitamins, minerals, and food choices. Let's discuss them one by one.

Essential Vitamins and Minerals:

Certain vitamins and minerals encourage the growth of hair. Because they include functional components, some vitamins and minerals are crucial for growth.

Biotin (Vitamin B7): Promotes keratin production and enhances hair growth.

Vitamin D stimulates the stem cells, preventing the dormancy of the hair follicle cells.

Zinc: It promotes DNA synthesis, prevents hair shedding, and strengthens the hair.

Iron: Iron is essential for the movement of oxygen. Thus, it prevents hair loss due to anemia-related issues. 

Best Foods for Hair Growth:

Eggs:

They have biotin and protein that support the production of keratin and strengthen the hair follicles.

Salmon:

Omega 3 fatty acids are present in them that help the overall health and nervous system-related signaling. It has a high protein content as well.

Spinach: 

It contains iron and vitamins A and C, necessary for oxygen transport to the cells.

Nuts and seeds: 

Seed contains zinc, vitamin E, and omega-6. Zinc helps DNA synthesis, which prevents excessive shedding.

Greek Yogurt: 

Probiotics and protein in Greek yogurt support the health of follicle cells and prevent infections by enhancing immunity. 

Hydration and its Role in Hair Health:

Hydration status plays an important role in cellular functioning. It maintains scalp hydration, which prevents brittle hair.

Best Hair Care Routine for Faster Growth

Choosing the best shampoo and oil and handling helps the hair grow faster. They keep the scalp healthy.

Choosing the Right Shampoo and Conditioner:

Sulfate-free shampoo retains the natural oils necessary for hair health. Use conditioners that replenish the moisture and nourish the hair. Avoid overwashing because it dries the scalp and leads to dryness. 

Importance of Scalp Health: 

The scalp produces the natural oil sebum that plays a protective role; therefore, a clean and well-nourished scalp is necessary for faster hair growth. 

Hair Oiling and Massage Benefits:

The best hair oil strengthens the hair roots, and massage improves blood circulation. They also prevent dryness and breakage by providing moisture to the hair. 

Natural Remedies to Boost Hair Growth:

Such remedies have functional elements that promote healthy growth. Let's discuss some useful home remedies for hair growth.

Aloe Vera for Scalp Health:

Fatty acids and enzymes found in aloe vera support healthy scalps. 

Onion Juice for Hair Regrowth:

Onion juice is rich in a sulfur compound that enhances collagen production. Collagen boosts hair follicle growth and regrowth.

Coconut Oil and Castor Oil Benefits:

Because coconut oil deeply penetrates the hair shafts, protein loss is avoided. It also has ricinolic acid, which improves blood circulation and nourishes the follicles. 

Lifestyle Changes for Healthy Hair Growth:

Stress, the sleeping cycle, and chemicals damage the hair, so you need to modify your lifestyle to avoid such issues.

Managing Stress and Hair Fall Prevention:

Chronic stress releases the cortisol that affects the hair follicle cycle and leads to shedding.

Importance of Sleep for Hair Health:

During sleep, the body repairs tissue and generates new cells. It also produces the hair follicles. Get 7-9 hours of quality sleep daily for proper cell regeneration.

Avoiding Heat and Chemical Damage:

Excessive heat and chemicals break the disulfide bonds in keratin, which weakens the hair shaft. 

Common Hair Growth Myths Debunked:

❌Trimming hairs enhances hair growth.

✅ Trimming of hairs removes the split ends that prevent them from breakage, but it does not enhance the growth of the hairs.

❌Frequently brushing hair boosts growth.

✅  No. It might harm the hair mechanically.

When to Seek Professional Help?

Consult with a dermatologist when your hair starts shedding too fast, bald patches appear, and progressive hair thinning. 

Conclusion

Proper diet, scalp care, and balanced lifestyle changes are all necessary for healthy hair development. It will make your hair stronger and faster-growing.