ABC's for long, luxurious hair

Due to its coily nature and harsh treatment it can seem as though textured hair doesnt grow (Photo: Courtesy)

A common misconception is that textured African hair doesn't grow as long as other hair types. The truth however, is that highly textured hair grows at an average of half an inch per month and there is little difference in growth rate of all hair types.

However, due to its coily nature and harsh treatments, it can seem like highly textured hair doesn't grow. With proper hair care and nourishment, you too can have that long luxurious mane. Here is how:

• Cleanse

Most black women don't think they should wash their hair and scalp as women of other ethnicities. However, if you want your hair to achieve maximum growth, it's important to keep your scalp cells healthy and unclogged.

Experts recommend that the scalp be cleaned twice a week to keep it healthy. If this isn't feasible for you, make time to wash your hair at least once a week.

African hair is prone to breakage from drying, always moisturise (Photo: Courtesy)

• Moisturise

Because of its curly structure, African hair is prone to breakage from drying. Keeping black hair moisturized is one of the key elements to promoting growth.

Condition your hair after every shampoo wash, or ditch shampoo for conditioner. Look for conditioners without silicone derivatives to gently cleanse the hair and scalp.

You can also apply a leave-in conditioner to the ends daily to prevent breakage. Avoid thick greases and oils which can weigh your hair down. When going to bed, cover your hair with a silk scarf.

• Protein treatments

Hair is mainly made of proteins and using deep protein treatments regularly can help repair and strengthen it.

Deep condition your hair weekly with a quality protein treatment. However, do not use protein treatments more than once a week- overuse can make your hair brittle and prone to even more breakage.

• Nourishment

A healthy body equates health hair. Keep your body healthy through a varied and balanced diet and a regular exercise routine.

Eat foods rich in vitamins A, D, C, B12 and other B vitamins, Biotin, and calcium. Consider taking a daily multivitamin to supplement your diet. Drink plenty of water to keep all your body cells well hydrated.