How to Grow Long Hair for African-Americans

Because African-American hair can sometimes be dry and brittle, it can be difficult to grow it long. Contrary to popular belief, African-American hair grows at the same rate as other ethnic groups' hair. The key to getting longer locks is preventing the ends of your hair from breaking. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Avoid chemical treatments. Relaxers and hair color contain chemicals that break down your hair and make it weak. If you do decide to chemically alter your hair, don't double-process it: if you relax your hair, don't color it; if you color you hair, don't relax it. Make sure any treatment you get is done by a professional at a salon.

2

Apply a light oil/leave-in moisturizer to your hair daily. Do not apply it directly on your scalp. "Greasing the scalp" is unnecessary as it tends clog up hair pores (slowing hair growth) and leaves a dirty residue. Your scalp already produces it own natural oil. If you suffer from dry scalp or dandruff, use a special shampoo and limit the amount of oil you apply to your hair. A dry scalp could be a result of the dependency it developed from you constantly greasing it. If your condition is serious, you may want to consult a doctor.

3

Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers instead of a hair brush, which can break your hair. Some people believe brushing helps distribute oils from the scalp down to the hair shaft, but this is not necessary if you apply a small amount of oil to your hair each day.

4

Avoid styling tools that put excessive heat on your hair. Blow-dryers and curling irons help dry out hair and cause more breakage. Use rollers, wraps or air-dry your hair instead.

5

Be extremely careful with rubber bands or hair ties. Rubber bands and ponytail holders can break your hair if you're not careful when you remove them. Loosen them slowly and carefully so you don't break any of your hair. If you wear braids, be sure to add some braiding hair and braid past your real hair. You may then tie the fake hair with a rubber band or secure it with glue. That way, your real hair will not be damaged.

6

Give your hair a break. Braid or weave styles are wonderful ways to give your real hair a break from everyday styling and provide hair length, but be careful. Don't wear these styles for longer than two months at a time, as they can cause breakage or cause your hair to lock (dread).

7

Carefully wrap or braid your hair at night to avoid breakage while you are sleeping. Tie your hair in a satin scarf or sleep on a satin pillowcase. Avoid tying your hair in tight ponytails before going to bed.