If you have relaxed hair, you may have found that it can be challenging to grow it past shoulder length. While it may seem like an impossible task, there are steps you can take to encourage your hair to grow longer. In this article, we'll explore how to grow relaxed hair past shoulder length and provide tips and tricks to help you achieve your hair goals.
Table of Contents
- How to Grow Relaxed Hair Past Shoulder Length
- Step by Step Guide
- Tips for Growing Relaxed Hair
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Hair Care for Long Relaxed Hair
How to Grow Relaxed Hair Past Shoulder Length
Before we dive into the tips and tricks for growing relaxed hair past shoulder length, it's essential to understand what factors can impact hair growth. Genetics, diet, and overall health can all play a role in how fast your hair grows. However, there are still things you can do to promote healthy hair growth and help your hair reach new lengths.
1. Get Regular Trims
It may seem counterintuitive to cut your hair when you're trying to grow it, but regular trims are essential for healthy hair growth. Split ends and breakage can hinder hair growth, so it's crucial to trim your hair every 6-8 weeks to prevent these issues.
2. Avoid Overwashing
Washing your hair too often can strip it of its natural oils, which can lead to dryness and breakage. Aim to wash your hair no more than twice a week, and use a sulfate-free shampoo to prevent further damage.
3. Deep Condition Regularly
Deep conditioning treatments can help restore moisture to your hair and prevent breakage. Aim to deep condition your hair once a week, and leave the treatment on for at least 30 minutes to get the most benefits.
4. Use Heat Protectant
If you frequently use heat styling tools like flat irons or curling irons, it's essential to use a heat protectant to prevent heat damage. Apply the protectant to your hair before using any heat styling tools to keep your hair healthy and strong.
5. Massage Your Scalp
Scalp massages can help stimulate hair growth by increasing blood flow to the scalp. Use your fingertips to massage your scalp for a few minutes each day to promote healthy hair growth.
Step by Step Guide
Now that you know the basics of how to grow relaxed hair past shoulder length, let's dive into a step-by-step guide to help you achieve your hair goals.
Step 1: Get Regular Trims
As we mentioned earlier, regular trims are crucial for healthy hair growth. Book an appointment with your hairstylist every 6-8 weeks to keep your hair healthy and prevent split ends.
Step 2: Deep Condition Regularly
Deep conditioning treatments can help prevent breakage and keep your hair moisturized. Use a deep conditioner once a week, and leave the treatment on for at least 30 minutes for the best results.
Step 3: Avoid Overwashing
Washing your hair too often can lead to dryness and breakage. Aim to wash your hair no more than twice a week, and use a sulfate-free shampoo to prevent further damage.
Step 4: Use Heat Protectant
If you use heat styling tools, it's crucial to use a heat protectant to prevent heat damage. Apply the protectant to your hair before using any heat styling tools to keep your hair healthy and strong.
Step 5: Massage Your Scalp
Scalp massages can help stimulate hair growth by increasing blood flow to the scalp. Use your fingertips to massage your scalp for a few minutes each day to promote healthy hair growth.
Tips for Growing Relaxed Hair
Here are some additional tips to help you grow relaxed hair past shoulder length:
1. Eat a Healthy Diet
Your diet can impact your hair growth. Eat a diet rich in vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins, vitamin D, and iron, to promote healthy hair growth.
2. Protect Your Hair While Sleeping
Protect your hair while sleeping by using a silk or satin pillowcase to prevent breakage. You can also wrap your hair in a silk scarf to protect it while you sleep.
3. Avoid Tight Hairstyles
Tight hairstyles like braids or ponytails can cause breakage and damage to your hair. Avoid tight hairstyles and opt for looser styles to prevent damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I grow relaxed hair past shoulder length?
A: Yes, it's possible to grow relaxed hair past shoulder length. With proper hair care and maintenance, you can encourage healthy hair growth and reach new lengths.
Q: How long does it take to grow relaxed hair past shoulder length?
A: Hair growth rates vary, but with proper care and maintenance, you can expect to see growth of around half an inch per month. It may take several months or even years to grow your hair past shoulder length.
Q: Can I use hair extensions to help grow my hair?
A: Hair extensions can be a helpful tool to add length and volume to your hair while you're growing it out. However, it's essential to use high-quality extensions and not rely on them as a long-term solution.
Hair Care for Long Relaxed Hair
Once you've grown your hair past shoulder length, it's essential to continue taking care of it to keep it healthy and strong. Here are some tips for caring for long relaxed hair:
1. Use a Wide-Tooth Comb
Use a wide-tooth comb to detangle your hair gently. Start at the ends of your hair and work your way up to prevent breakage.
2. Apply a Leave-In Conditioner
Apply a leave-in conditioner to your hair to keep it moisturized and prevent breakage. Focus on the ends of your hair, where it's most prone to damage.
3. Protect Your Hair from the Sun
Protect your hair from the sun by wearing a hat or using a hair product with SPF. The sun can dry out your hair and cause damage, so it's essential to protect it.
4. Get Regular Trims
Continue to get regular trims to prevent split ends and keep your hair healthy. Aim to trim your hair every 6-8 weeks to maintain its length and strength.
By following these tips and tricks, you can grow relaxed hair past shoulder length and enjoy healthy, strong hair. Remember to take care of your hair, eat a healthy diet, and be patient – growing hair takes time, but the results are worth it.
