Diet and Hair Growth
The growth of healthy, strong hair is closely linked to what we eat. "Increasing levels of protein in the diet can improve hair growth, nail growth and the quality of your skin," explains Andrew. "We know that protein is particularly well-absorbed during the morning, so eating things like salmon or low-fat cottage cheese for breakfast is a great start." Vitamins A, B, C and E are also good for your hair and scalp, so make sure you're eating some citrus fruits and plenty of leafy green veg as part of a balanced diet.
Afro Hair Care
4Beauty's guide to styling and nurturing gorgeous Afro hair
Regular Trims
Contrary to what you hear at the salon, six-weekly trims may not be necessary. "Trimming your hair will not stimulate growth," says Andrew. "That's a myth that's probably been touted by many a hairdresser. Unless you've got a short, defined style you can probably get away with leaving it eight to 10 weeks between trims."
The important thing, however, is to head to the salon as soon as the tips of your hair start to look a little worse for wear. "Regular trims help to seal the hair tips," Andrew adds. "The ends are weak and prone to damage, and can easily split. Once that happens, splits can continue tearing all the way up the hair shaft, making one hair into two very fine, weak strands. That's when the hair becomes frizzy and difficult to manage."
To reduce breakage and help your hair grow as long as possible, always use heat protection products to create a barrier around the hair shaft before using appliances like straighteners. When you're brushing your hair, work from the bottom up to avoid snapping it. Start by detangling and brushing the ends before gently tackling the roots.
Hair Growth and Hair Type
The bad news is that long healthy locks just aren't possible for every hair type. "Someone who's got very fine hair, particularly from an Anglo-Saxon background, may find that they will only get five years' growth out of each hair before it falls out," says Andrew. "Whereas someone who comes from southern European or Mediterranean heritage might even get nine years growth out of the hair. There's such a difference in texture and fibre, and so much of that is linked to heritage and genetics."
Be realistic: if your hair is at its healthiest when short or mid-length, embrace that and get regular chops. If that doesn't appeal to you, maybe it's time to look into hair extensions - we won't let on if you don't.