The Do’s & Don'ts of Growing Out Your Hair

Growing out your hair? Here are all the do’s and don’ts you need, including how to blend hair extensions.

Long hair allows you to play around with different looks. Plus, as you grow it out, you’ll give yourself time to reset and find a hairstyle you'll love. But growing your hair out naturally is a long process. It will take time, patience, and dedication. Unfortunately, you can't just chop it off one day and have Rapunzel-like hair the next day.

The good news is that growing your hair long doesn’t have to be difficult with the right hair care routine. From using the right products to adopting good habits and practices, there are many things you can do to help grow your hair healthier and longer — and just as importantly, certain behaviors you should avoid.

Let's explore everything you need to know about growing your hair out.

Do Eat Healthily and Hydrate Your Body

Your hair is made of protein. So, if you want it to grow out, you must include more protein in your diet. When your body isn't getting enough protein, it can cause your hair follicles to go dormant to save protein. As a result, your hair growth will slow.

In addition to getting ample protein, you may also want to include essential vitamins and minerals in your diet, including fatty acids, B vitamins, iron, vitamin C, and zinc. These nutrients are especially beneficial to hair growth.

Moreover, drinking enough water daily is important, as it hydrates your body and hair. Did you know that about 25% of the weight of a single hair strand is made up of water?

On top of that, water helps transport essential nutrients throughout your body, including your hair and scalp. Make sure to drink at least eight ounces of water daily to stay healthy and grow your hair.

As with many things, growing your hair out is about balance. You don't need to overdo it, but ensuring your body and hair get the nutrients they need is essential.

Don’t Use the Wrong Products

You don't want to damage your hair with products containing harsh chemicals that can damage your hair. You also want to use only shampoos and conditioners that benefit your hair. As such, reading the ingredients before picking up a new product is a good idea.

Avoid products that contain chemicals like sulfates and alcohol that promote scalp and hair dryness, preventing your hair from growing out. Instead, choose products that contain natural ingredients with moisturizing properties.

Don’t Overuse Heat Tools

Heat tools certainly come in handy. While they’re great for helping you pull off styles quickly, using these tools regularly can cause damage to your hair. For this reason, it makes sense to stop using heat tools like curling wands, blow dryers, and hair straighteners. If you can't avoid these tools altogether, make sure to use them sparingly and at lower temperatures. Whenever possible, though, try to use no-heat alternatives.

Do Consider Taking Supplements

Eating a healthy diet means your hair, scalp, and follicles are getting most of the nutrients they need from your food. But if there are any gaps in your diet, taking supplements could help to ensure your hair grows fast, strong, and healthy. Consider taking supplements like biotin, iron, and multivitamins for healthy hair growth.

Do Try Hair Extensions

The natural ways to grow your hair out can take months and years to deliver results. Try hair extensions if you want to add length and thickness to your hair fast. Zala Hair Extensions allow you to instantly make your locks longer and fuller.

It is easy to install Clip-in and Halo Hair Extensions at home, but we recommend you visit your hairstylist when it comes to Tape-ins and other extensions. Hair experts know how to blend hair extensions properly to look as natural as possible.