5 Secrets to Healthy, Strong Hair Growth
We’d bet our most premium grazing paddock that having healthier, longer and stronger hair was on more than one New Year’s resolution list this year. Probably right next to ‘start Pickleball’ and ‘try meditating every day’! While we aren’t sports coaches, we can tell you that meditation might just help with hair growth. No joke.
If you’re experiencing hair loss or feel like your hair is growing at a snail's pace, don’t fret. The secrets to a scratch-free scalp and luscious locks are simpler than you think. By making a few simple changes and building healthy habits into your routine, you can start to regain your hair growth and strength.
Secret #1: Breaking a Sweat
Exercise is fantastic for your health in a plethora of ways, but sweat can sometimes come at a price. While sweat itself is harmless, letting sweat-drenched hair sit for too long can lead to blocked pores, a dry and irritated scalp, and brittle, breakable hair.
The solution? Keep your hair up and away from your skin while you work out, and wash it regularly if you’re sweating often. Just make sure to use a gentle formula that won’t strip your scalp and strands of their natural moisture. SLS and Silicone-free Shampoo and Conditioner with natural ingredients are a must!
Our Milk Shampoo is perfect for this. Made with gentle coconut and glucose-based cleansers, it cleans without unnecessary trauma. Plus, it contains Piroctone Olamine to help control the microflora of the scalp and Milk Protein for a boost of amino acids to strengthen your hair health.
Secret #2: Never Sleep with Wet Hair
While it might be tempting to skip the blow-dry and head straight to bed, sleeping with wet hair can lead to a variety of issues for your hair and scalp. Here’s why it’s best to let your hair dry before hitting the pillow:
1. Increased Breakage, Tangles & Knots
When hair is wet, it is in its most vulnerable state. The hair shaft swells and the cuticles open, making it more susceptible to breakage. The friction between your wet hair and the pillowcase can cause strands to snap, leading to split ends and a tangled mess by morning.
2. Bacterial Growth & Scalp Health
A damp scalp provides the perfect environment for fungal and bacterial growth. The warmth and moisture trapped against your scalp during sleep can contribute to an imbalance in the scalp’s natural oil production, potentially leading to increased oiliness or dryness. This may exacerbate conditions like Dandruff, Seborrheic Dermatitis, scalp irritation, and fungal infections, which can cause itchiness, flakiness and overall discomfort.
3. Mould & Mildew in Bedding
Regularly sleeping with wet hair can transfer moisture to your pillow and bedding. Over time, this can create a breeding ground for mould and mildew, which can be harmful to your health and contribute to allergies.
To avoid all of this, let your hair air-dry before bedtime. If you’re short on time, use a blow-dryer on a low heat setting to dry your hair and keep it at a safe distance. By ensuring your hair is dry before you sleep, you can protect it from breakage, maintain scalp health, and wake up with hair that’s easier to manage and style.
Secret #3: Hydrate for Happiness
Just as your body needs water to function, your hair requires hydration to stay healthy and vibrant. Dehydrated hair can become brittle and prone to split ends, hindering its growth potential. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day is essential, but don’t forget about external hydration.
Behind every successful shampoo is a great conditioner. Our Cream Conditioner uses naturally nourishing oils like Jojoba and Olive Oil to hydrate the hair cuticles from the inside out. Unlike Silicone, which just sits on top of your hair and scalp, these oils penetrate deeply to hydrate effectively and retain moisture, leaving it softer and more manageable.
This creamy formula will also smooth cuticles and reduce friction between strands, making it easier to detangle and cause less damage. If you have curly, frizzy or coloured hair, a conditioner will help maintain curls and flyaways and lock in colour, preventing it from fading too quickly.
Choosing the Right Conditioner
Not all conditioners are created equal. Here’s what to look for:
- Natural ingredients: Opt for conditioners with natural oils like Jojoba and Olive Oil, which deeply nourish and hydrate the hair without weighing it down.
- SLS & Silicone-free: Avoid conditioners with sulphates and silicones as they can strip your hair of its natural oils and increase product build-up, causing damage.
- Protein-rich: Look for ingredients like Milk Protein, which provide essential amino acids to strengthen your hair.
Secret #4: Massage the Mane
A little self-care goes a long way, and your scalp is no exception! While it feels amazing, massaging your scalp also stimulates blood circulation, promoting the flow of nutrients to your hair follicles. More oxygen and nutrients mean healthier and faster hair growth.
If you're dealing with Dandruff or Seborrheic Dermatitis, a scalp massage can be incredibly helpful. Gently massaging your scalp not only loosens and removes flakes of dead skin but also soothes itchiness. Plus, the boost of blood circulation can further alleviate symptoms and promote a healthier scalp.
Next time you’re shampooing (with our Milk Shampoo, of course!), take a moment to indulge in a gentle scalp massage. The nourishing formula of our shampoo, combined with a massage, enhances blood circulation and ensures your hair follicles get the care they need.
How to Massage Your Scalp
- Use gentle pressure: Use your fingertips (not nails) to apply gentle pressure to your scalp in circular motions.
- Start at the edges: Begin at the hairline and work your way towards the crown.
- Be consistent: Aim for a 2-5 minute massage each time you shampoo.
- Focus on problem areas: Pay extra attention to areas where you feel your scalp needs it most.
Secret #5: Trim for Triumph
While it may seem counterintuitive, regular trims are essential for maintaining healthy hair. Trimming eliminates split ends, preventing them from travelling up the hair shaft and causing more damage. Plus, it keeps your hair looking its best as it grows.
So there you have it! Unlocking the secrets to growing your hair involves a holistic approach that addresses both internal and external factors. By embracing these five secrets and incorporating the right products into your routine, you’ll be well on your way to achieving the long, luscious locks you’ve always dreamed of.