The growth of healthy hair is dependent on several factors, and whether you are trying to prevent hair loss or attempting to encourage more growth, some home remedies may help. Many hair loss conditions result from a medical issue and require the help of a professional hair loss specialist. However, learning how to ensure that your hair has the best growing environment possible can help you grow healthy hair and may even slow or stop the progression of hair loss.
Eat More Protein
Protein is essential for hair growth, and hair loss is often the result of a protein deficiency. Your hair is made of a protein called keratin and increasing the amount of high-protein foods you eat can improve hair growth. High-protein food sources include:
- Lean meats
- Eggs
- Seeds
- Nuts
- Beans
- Fish
Increase Your Iron Intake
Healthy hair requires an adequate intake of essential vitamins and nutrients. Iron is a nutrient that is necessary for you to grow healthy hair. Increased iron intake is even more critical for people who do not eat meat as the body doesn't absorb non-animal sources of iron as efficiently. Iron is available as a supplement, and many manufacturers fortify their food with iron. In addition, some dietary sources of iron include:
- Clams
- Oysters
- Lentils
- Spinach
- Pumpkin seeds
- White beans
- Lean beef
- Turkey
Essential Oils
According to a January 2011 article published in the International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research, aromatherapy can help stimulate hair growth. When applying essential oils to the scalp, mix only a few drops into a carrier oil, such as coconut oil or walnut oil, and test the solution on a small patch of the scalp, as some people may experience allergic reactions from essential oils. Researchers also found that inhaling the scent of these oils may affect hair growth.
Some essential oils that may promote hair growth include:
- Cedarwood
- Lavender
- Rosemary
- Thyme
Scalp Massage
Massage helps to stimulate blood flow to the scalp. Increased blood flow means more oxygen, as well as vitamins and nutrients, are available to the hair follicles. One small study published in the National Library of Medicine found that men who used a scalp massager device for four minutes a day had thicker hair after six months. You can find scalp massage devices in drug stores and pharmacies, or you can use the pads of your fingertips to massage the scalp in gentle circles.
Pumpkin Seed Oil
A 2014 study published in the National Library of Medicine discovered that pumpkin seed oil could help promote hair growth. Researchers found that men who took 400 milligrams of pumpkin seed oil for six months experienced a 40 percent increase in their average hair count. The men in this study were between the ages of 20 and 65, all had androgenic alopecia, or male pattern baldness, and were not currently taking other supplements for hair loss.
Saw Palmetto
Saw palmetto is an extract of the saw palmetto fruit, a shrub-like palm native to the southeastern United States. A study published in 2012 found that saw palmetto supplementation can increase hair growth in men with androgenic alopecia. Participants took 320 milligrams of saw palmetto every day for the duration of the two-year study. As a result, participants experienced hair growth mainly on the top and back of the scalp, common sites of bald spots in men.
Can Home Remedies Help in Hair Growth?
Some causes of hair growth, such as genetics, are out of a person's control. However, following a healthy and nutritious diet can often improve hair growth. In addition, using some home remedies and ensuring your hair has a healthy environment that promotes hair growth may help improve thickness and growth. If you are concerned about hair loss or growth, the experts at Mane Image can help. To learn more about what you can do to promote healthy hair growth, contact us today and schedule your FREE initial consultation.
