8 Tips for Longer Hair

Written by: Ciarra McLean

Looking to take your hair length to the next level? Well, check out these 8 tips for longer, healthier natural hair.

TIP 1: Be aware of product ingredients

When it comes to your hair, it’s of the utmost importance that the products you are using will nourish your strands. Avoid ingredients such as alcohols and sulfates which can cause dryness. Look for agents to add and lock in moisture such as shea butter, olive oil, mango butter, aloe vera, and coconut oil.

TIP 2: Give the ends of your hair some TLC

When it comes to the ends of your hair, there are two things to keep in mind. First, you want to keep things moisturized as the ends are where the risk for breakage is highest. When applying your moisturizer, take an extra second to be sure the ends are thoroughly saturated. Second, if you are prone to single-strand-knots and split-ends, be sure to trim your hair regularly to prevent snagging and further breakage. Holding onto damaged ends will only create further problems and will not aid in the retention of length.

TIP 3: Avoid Heat

While it’s especially important to avoid heat in the dry winter months (as we talked about in our post on how to protect natural hair during the winter), it’s a great practice to keep all year round. Limiting how often your hair comes in contact with high heat will add to its life, length, and overall health. If you must use heat, use lower settings in small increments with a heat protectant. Try braiding or banding hair for a stretched look with no heat!

TIP 4: Be gentle when detangling

If you need a how-to or refresher on the best methods when it comes to detangling, we’ve already got it broken down into 5 easy steps. Invest in our KurlsPlus detangling tools to make wash day, detangling, and styling easy and stress-free.

Photo by Leighann Blackwood via Unsplash

TIP 5: Avoid Friction

When it comes to retaining length, you’re going to want to minimize the friction that your hair experiences. A great example of unnecessary friction is using a regular towel to dry your hair or not protecting your curls while you sleep. To remedy the first situation, try using a microfiber towel or old t-shirt to dry your hair. For an added layer of protection while sleeping, use a satin bonnet, satin pillowcase, or tie hair up with a satin scarf.

TIP 6: Health matters

Diet and lifestyle are major parts of how your hair grows - it’s hard to have a healthy head of hair if the rest of your body isn’t being taken care of. A diet full of fruits, vegetables, and the nutrients they bring ensure that your hair grows healthy and happy. Don’t be afraid to ask your healthcare provider about adding supplements to close any nutritional gaps you may be experiencing. 

TIP 7: Style with growth in mind

Choose low maintenance, loose styling to prompt hair growth. Tight styles can pull out hair, and changing the style of your hair too often can over-manipulate strands and cause breakage. Give your hair breaks and room to breathe in-between styling to promote hair retention and growth.

TIP 8: Don’t forget to show your scalp some love

Regular scalp massages to stimulate blood flow has been shown to promote hair growth. Incorporate regular scalp massages into your hair routine, being sure to be gentle and use your fingertips as opposed to your nails. If you have our KurlsPlus Paddle Comb, you can use that as well! Follow it up with a nourishing oil blend of your choice to prevent dryness.

BONUS TIP:

Use the L.O.C. method to moisturize and protect the hair. Sealing the shaft ensures that your hair retains moisture and therefore length.

And that’s it! Combine these tips together and you’ll have long, voluminous, healthy curls in no time. 

Looking for more hair tips? Check out other articles on our blog, or see the many places Kazmaleje has been featured in our news tab!

Photography: @pixabay via nappy.co