How to Grow Relaxed Hair: 10 Steps
Introduction:
Growing relaxed hair can often be a challenging process. It requires patience, commitment, and proper care to ensure your hair remains healthy while it grows. In this article, we will discuss ten crucial steps you can follow to achieve longer, healthier relaxed hair.
1. Develop a hair care routine:
Establishing a consistent hair care routine is essential for the growth of relaxed hair. Commit to washing, conditioning, and moisturizing your hair regularly. Set aside designated times during the week to devote to the care of your tresses.
2. Choose healthy hair products:
Select products that are formulated for relaxed or chemically treated hair. Shampoos and conditioners should be gentle and moisturizing to prevent dryness and breakage. Avoid sulfates as they can strip away natural oils, leading to weaker strands.
3. Apply deep conditioner regularly:
Deep conditioning treatments are crucial for maintaining optimal moisture balance, promoting growth, and preventing breakage. Aim to deep condition your hair every one to two weeks, depending on your hair’s needs.
4. Maintain protein-moisture balance:
Relaxed hair needs both protein and moisture in order to grow strong and healthy. Use protein treatments periodically to strengthen the hair shaft and follow up with a moisturizing treatment or leave-in conditioner.
5. Detangle with care:
Be gentle while detangling your relaxed strands, as they can be prone to breakage if handled roughly. Use a wide-tooth comb or detangling brush and work from the ends upwards, taking your time to minimize damage.
6. Trim split ends promptly:
Split ends can hinder growth by causing further splitting or breaking of the hair shaft. Regularly trim these ends – about every six to eight weeks – to prevent damage from traveling up the shaft.
7. Limit heat styling:
Heat styling tools can weaken relaxed hair by causing dryness and breakage. Limit your use of flat irons, curling wands, and blow dryers, opting for air-drying or heatless styling alternatives whenever possible.
8. Protect your hair at night:
Invest in a silk or satin pillowcase to help reduce friction while you sleep, which can cause thinning and breakage. It is also essential to wrap your hair in a silk or satin scarf or bonnet to retain moisture and protect it from damage.
9. Utilize protective hairstyles:
Incorporate protective hairstyles such as braids, twists, or buns to help minimize manipulation and protect fragile ends. Switch up your protective styles every few weeks to prevent stress on the hairline and nape area.
10. Be patient and consistent:
Growing relaxed hair takes time, patience, and commitment. Stick to your hair care routine religiously, be kind to your hair, and keep track of any progress by taking photos or measuring length.
Conclusion:
By following these ten steps, you will create the optimal environment for healthy growth in your relaxed hair. Remember that consistency is key and that the journey may require patience. Ready for the reward? Embrace the process, enjoy the journey, and watch your relaxed tresses flourish!