Table of topics
- 15 Essential Natural Ingredients For Effective Hair Growth
- 10 Highly-Effective Masks For Hair Growth
- Factors That Influence Hair Growth?
- Conclusion
In this guide we will talk about the most effective home remedies for hair growth and what it will take to sustain healthy and beautiful hair. If you incorporate some of the suggested hair growth remedies into your daily routine, make an effort to eat a healthy diet rich in vitamins, minimize daily stress and get enough sleep, keep good hygiene and drink plenty of water it is an absolute guarantee that in a couple of months from now your hair not only will grow longer but also will gain luster, strength and elasticity!
15 essential natural ingredients for effective hair growth
Cayenne pepperThere are quite a few masks made of cayenne pepper (red pepper) as the basis. The main acting ingredient of cayenne pepper is capsaicin. Capsaicin is capable of activating the insulin-like growth factor IGF-1 which stimulates blood circulation and helps control hair growth. In addition, cayenne pepper has excellent antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, restores metabolism in the hair structure and the scalp and is extremely rich in vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, vitamins C, K and E as well as such important minerals as phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, calcium, iron, zinc, selenium, copper and manganese. In a word, cayenne pepper is highly beneficial for promoting rapid hair growth. |
Burdock oilThis is one of the most popular and versatile remedies for hair treatment. In its composition Burdock root contains vitamins A, B, C, E, F, protein, minerals and many other useful components. Burdock as a plant is extremely prevalent. It literally grows in great abundance by the roadside. Burdock enhances blood circulation, restores metabolism in the scalp, effectively nourishes and strengthens hair roots, accelerates hair growth, stops hair loss, removes dandruff, itching and dryness of the scalp (antiseborrheic and antimicrobial activity), reduces hair thinning, restores weak and damaged hair structure (like that caused after dyeing and a perm). As a bonus, burdock root oil gives your hair shine and elasticity. |
Castor oilCastor oil is rich in vitamin E, vital minerals and proteins. There is a special kind of castor oil - the Jamaican black castor oil. Regular castor oil is yellowish in color because of the way it is processed, while JBCO is very dark. JBCO’s characteristic color is due to a very specific process of preparation. JBCO is roasted and the ash left from the roasting process is added back into oil which makes it more whole and beneficial for hair treatments. Experts claim that Jamaican black castor oil is like castor oil on steroids. It contains all the beneficial properties of regular castor oil at least twofold higher. The only two downsides of castor oil are its distinct smell and the fact that it’s not easy to wash it out of your hair. If traces of castor oil are left in your hair your hair becomes unmanageable. |
Peppermint oilPeppermint essential oil is one of the oldest herbal medicines known the world across as a natural remedy for hair. Peppermint gives a refreshing effect and is used not only for stimulating hair growth but also for preventing hair loss and improving hair's overall quality. The main advantage of peppermint oil is its ability to maintain a good pH balance (balance between acid and alkaline) in the scalp. Additionally, peppermint moisturizes the skin, which is significantly useful for people with dry hair, and is very effective against dandruff. Peppermint oil can be successfully combined with other essential oils. It best blends with almond and / or vegetable oils and it can also be used in combination with rosemary, lemon oil or butter and jojoba oil. You may add a few drops of peppermint essential oil to shampoo or hair conditioner for regular hair care. |
Lavender oilLavender essential oil is widely used for medical and cosmetic purposes. It is obtained from the lavender plant and its inflorescence by steam distillation which preserves a lot of healing components. So what’s so wonderful about lavender essential oil? In addition to having excellent calmative and analgesic properties it moisturizes and nourishes the scalp promoting hair growth, improves the environment for the development of new hair follicles, removes dandruff and stops hair from breakage. |
Rosemary oilRosemary essential oil is obtained from leaves and flowers of rosemary. It is widely used in cosmetology and for medicinal purposes. Rosemary has a positive effect on hair. It enhances blood circulation, opens up pores of the scalp and accelerates hair growth. Additionally, it removes dandruff, prevents hair loss and fights causes of brittle hair. Application of rosemary essential oil has absolutely no contraindications therefore it can be used in combination with virtually anything. A couple of drops of rosemary oil can be added to shampoo or conditioner for regular use. |
Clove oilThe main component of clove essential oil is eugenol, the presence of which exceeds 85%. Due to this abundance of eugenol, clove essential oil is widely used in pharmaceuticals, perfumes, dental industry, tobacco industry and even pest control. Eugenol fights harmful bacteria and inhibits the growth of fungi which are the main causes for various hair problems such as oily hair and hair loss to name but a few. If used properly, clove essential oil helps dilate blood vessels and improve the circulation of blood in the scalp which accelerates hair growth. When combined with jojoba oil and rosemary oil it can effectively be used as a treatment against oily hair. Clove essential oil is extremely effective. The results may be visible even after 10 applications - hair becomes strong, manageable and shiny. |
Aloe veraAloe Vera is an extremely popular ingredient in cosmetology. It has an antibacterial effect. It effectively cleanses the scalp removing from the surface sebum and dead skin flakes. Normally, sebum is needed to keep hair moist and healthy however, if there is imbalanced activity in the sebaceous glands the scalp produces too much sebum which is consequently absorbed by the hair and it becomes oily. Cutaneous fat clogs up pores in the skin causing a substantial weakening of hair structure and slowing down its growth. Aloe Vera is an excellent natural source of vital minerals and vitamins. It stimulates blood circulation and enhances the metabolism in cells. Not only is Aloe Vera used successfully in treating alopecia (baldness) but also for stimulating hair growth. |
Onion juiceZinc, silicon, calcium, phosphorus, iron and vitamins B, E and C make onion juice an invaluable tool in the hair growth department. Onion juice strengthens and renews hair follicles, prevents hair from graying, falling out and helps remove dandruff. An undoubted advantage of onion juice based masks to commercial hair care products is the fact that it is suitable for all hair types. |
Sage oilSage oil helps neutralize the problem of hair loss, it prevents premature baldness by strengthening hair structure and is highly effective for promoting hair growth. Sage oil has antibacterial and antifungal properties. It controls the production of excess sebum and makes greasy and oily hair look fresh and tidy. Clary sage essential oil blends well with other essential oils such as ylang-ylang, jasmine, chamomile and rosemary. A fairly popular recipe for improving hair growth is a combination of sage oil and apple cider vinegar. |
Apple cider vinegarApple cider vinegar contains a large amount of vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, C, E, P, provitamin beta-carotene, enzymes as well as minerals: iron, silicon, magnesium, sulfur, potassium, calcium, phosphorous, chlorine, sodium, copper and fluorine. The combined action of these vitamins and minerals restores hair structure, enhances hair growth and improves the overall condition of the scalp. A very important element in hair care is iron. Iron is essential for delivering oxygen to the hair roots. Silicon and magnesium stimulate hair growth, sulfur gives hair strength and phosphorus enhances hair shine and elasticity. In addition, regular application of apple cider vinegar can help remove dandruff and itching of the scalp. |
Carrot seed oilCarrot seed essential oil is extracted by steam distillation from seeds of the plant Daucus carota of the Apiaceae family which is also known as the wild carrot or Queen Anne's lace. Don’t confuse this seed oil with the cheaper macerated “carrot oil” where a base oil is infused with carrot material. Carrot seed oil is effective for promoting hair growth and is superior to other essential oils when it comes to strengthening, nurturing and moisturizing hair. It is very rich in beta -carotene, vitamins A, B1, B2, C, E, essential fatty acids and other beneficial nutrients. Carrot seed oil soothes and relieves inflammation of the scalp and can even be used to treat alopecia areata (spot baldness). It is especially recommended for the prevention of dry and brittle hair as it lubricates hair strands which prevents split ends. |
Coconut oil90 % of coconut oil contains saturated fat, predominantly triglycerides. Of these, 6% is monounsaturated fatty acid and 2% is linoleic polyunsaturated fatty acid, the rest 92% are saturated fatty acids with the following ratio: 44.6% - lauric acid, 16.8% - myristic acid, 8.2% - palmitic acid, and 8% - octanoic acid. In addition, coconut oil contains natural moisturizers - hyaluronic, arachidonic and caproic acids as well as vitamins A, C, E, and natural antioxidants. In a word, coconut oil is very beneficial for the restoration of hair structure. It soothes, softens, moisturizes and nourishes the scalp. It removes dandruff, protects the hair from mechanical and chemical damage, and helps prevent the washout of proteins. Coconut oil is conducive to hair growth. |
Stinging nettleStinging Nettle is widely used as a herbal remedy for many conditions. Fresh stinging nettle juice has antibacterial properties and contains ascorbic acid, pantothenic acid, vitamins B2, C and K, iron, calcium and sodium. It can be rubbed into the scalp to strengthen hair and promote hair growth. It is capable of effectively decreasing itching and peeling of the scalp. Fresh stinging nettle juice can be used on a regular basis. It can be added to water to rinse your hair off after shampooing. |
Egg yolkEgg yolk is a very popular natural ingredient in home hair care. It contains vitamins A, B2, B3, B6, B12, D, E, magnesium, phosphorous, biotin, lecithin, potassium and amino acids. Egg yolk effectively prevents hair loss, eliminates dandruff and stimulates hair growth. It also increases the overall resistance of hair to the adverse effects of external environmental factors. Egg yolk blends well with other natural ingredients such as vegetable oils and can successfully be used as a base for many masks. In addition, egg white can also be used as an active ingredient in the preparation of masks. It helps strengthen hair structure, improves hair’s elasticity and gives it a silky shine. |
10 highly-effective masks for hair growth
The very basis to an effective mask for hair growth is the agents that to a certain degree “irritate” the scalp. When the blood flow is increased, oxygen and vital nutrients are delivered to the roots of hair thereby promoting a healthy growth in hair follicles.
Not every mask will work the same. Finding out the best mask that works for you is something of a trial and error process. However, since the masks suggested here are made of natural ingredients and don’t involve using synthetic chemicals the risk of ruining your hair is extremely small.
So when picking a mask for your hair be very patient. At first, it may seem that the mask of your choice doesn’t have any visible effect on your hair, however if you continue the application for at least three to four weeks you will start to notice that your hair will look healthier and possibly much longer than you would normally expect from your hair to grow in such a short period of time.
Most of the ingredients that will be mentioned here you can find in your kitchen and the ones that you don’t have at hand you can purchase either from a local health-food store or online.
So let’s have a look at some of the most popular masks used for stimulating hair growth:
Mask 1 - Honey & cayenne pepper
If the honey has crystallized put it in a water-bath for some time to make it liquid again. Mix the cayenne pepper into the honey and massage the mixture onto clean, damp hair by pressing it slightly into your scalp. Cover up your hair with plastic wrap or a plastic shower cap and wrap a warmed-up towel around your head. Wait for 45 to 60 minutes and then rinse off the mixture with lukewarm running water. Make sure the musk only covers your scalp. |
Mask 2 - Hair balm, essential oil & cayenne pepper tincture
Mix all the hair mask ingredients together. If necessary, add a couple of tablespoons of distilled or purified water to reduce the thickness. Part your hair into small sections with a comb and apply the mask with a small cosmetic brush onto the scalp. Since the cayenne pepper tincture contains alcohol and pepper be careful not to apply the mixture along the length of your hair, so only the scalp should be affected during the application. Insulate your head with plastic wrap or use for this purpose a cellophane shower cap. Wrap your head with a warm towel. For best results, if the burning isn't extreme, leave the mask to rest for at least 45 - 60 minutes. When the burning becomes too much to bear wash off the mask because you are running the chances of burning your scalp. Be guided both by the clock and by your common sense. |
Mask 3 - Olive oil, mustard & cayenne pepper
Mix up all the ingredients and apply the mask with massaging movements. Start at the forehead and work your way towards the back of the head. Massaging your scalp during the mask application helps the olive oil penetrate deeper into the skin and increase blood circulation. Wait for about 20 min, then wash your head with your favorite shampoo as usual. You can use this recipe 1 time per week. |
Mask 4 - Essential oil, onion juice, egg yolk & cayenne pepper tincture
Whip up the egg yolk and add the rest of the ingredients in turn. Stir up the mixture and heat it up in a water-bath. Part your hair carefully section by section and apply the mask on the scalp massaging the mixture well into the hair roots. Cover up your head with plastic wrap or a shower cap and wrap your head around with a towel. Allow 45 - 60 min for the mask to work in then wash it away under warmish running water. Thereafter, shampoo your head as normal. |
Mask 5 - Essential oils & cayenne pepper
Mix everything up. If necessary add some purified or distilled water to the mix. Massage the mask into the scalp along the partings. Put on a shower cap and wrap your head with a towel. Allow 30 to 45 min for the mask to work into your skin. Rinse your hair off with lukewarm running water then wash it with natural shampoo. |
Mask 6 - Camphor spirit & peppermint tincture
Mix up all the ingredients and pour the mixture over into an old applicator bottle from a hair dye kit. Carefully separate the hair into sections and apply on the scalp along the partings. Lightly massage the mixture into the skin. Put on a cellophane shower cap and wrap the head in a towel. Let the mask sit for 45 - 60 min then wash your hair as normal. In addition to stimulating hair growth this mask creates a cooling, toning-up effect which also relieves itching. It resembles cryotherapy (liquid nitrogen massage). When applied topically menthol in peppermint tincture stimulates nerve endings. Blood vessels contract and expand thereby increasing blood flow around hair follicles. |
Mask 7 - Olive oil, honey, cinnamon & cayenne pepper
This mask is suitable for oily as well as dry hair. Mix all the ingredients together. Warm the mixture up in a water-bath until it becomes semi-liquid. Apply the mask onto your scalp by massaging movements one hour before shampooing your hair. The mask doesn’t dribble or crumble away when drying so you can cover up your head with a shower cap and go about your daily routine. After you wash off the mask with shampoo no effect of “greasy hair” is left. |
Mask 8 - Burdock oil, wheat germ oil & clove oil
Mix everything and apply on the scalp by lightly massaging it. Protect your head with plastic wrap from dripping of oil and leave the mask to sit for one hour. Then wash your hair with natural shampoo. |
Mask 9 - Rosemary oil & almond oil
This is a very simple mask you can use before every hair washing. Rub the oil into the scalp and cover your head up with plastic wrap. Leave the mask to sit for 45 - 60 min then wash your hair with natural shampoo. |
Mask 10 - Essential oils, garlic juice, yolk & aloe vera
All ingredients blend pretty well together. Massage the mixture into the scalp, leave it for 30 - 45 min then wash your head. |
Frequency of application
For best results, apply these masks twice a week for a period of one to three months. Then give your hair a break and if necessary repeat the procedure.
A word of caution
There are a few things to look out for when applying these masks. Protect your hands with disposable latex gloves. Don’t breathe in the fumes and avoid the mixture getting into your eyes.
Before the application you are advised to test the sensitivity of your skin to allergic reactions. You can apply a small amount of the mixture on your neck and wait for 30 min to see how your skin reacts to it.
Especially be careful with pepper-based masks. These are caustic so they will cause a burning sensation to your scalp; but don’t fear, it’s normal.
Also, don’t get intimidated by the use of alcohol in these masks. The alcohol in these recipes acts as a solvent of ethereal oils, extracts and other biologically active substances. Also, the concentration of alcohol in these masks is such that it evaporates quicker than it’s capable of drying the scalp.
What other factors influence hair growth?
Hair growth may depend on a number of factors such as your diet, age, hormonal changes, genetic predisposition, hair care regime, climate, pregnancy, diseases and the use of certain medications and therapies to name but a few.
Additionally, the ethnic group you belong to also plays a role in this regard. For example, the hair on Asian people has the capacity to grow longer and faster than on Caucasian, Black-Afro and Caribbean people.
Diet
No home remedies for hair growth will work for you if you fail to hydrate properly and feed your body with a healthy diet.
For continuous and effective sustenance of hair growth drinking plenty of water is essential. Water is part of a lot of natural reactions in your system. Water carries nutrients to the cells of your body and water cleanses your body from waste elements. So if you want longer and healthier hair, drink at least 1.5 – 2 liters of water per day.
Just like any other part of your body, the cells and processes that support strong and vibrant hair depend on a balanced nutritious diet rich in vitamins and minerals.
Lean on a diet that includes fresh fruits and vegetables, seeds and nuts, herbs, dairy products (no more than 0.5 liters per day), eggs and fish. Do not forget to enrich your diet with olive oil and flaxseed oil as these exhibit a high nutritional and biological value which adds to the health of your hair.
Supplements
If you desire you can add essential minerals and vitamins as dietary supplements. Viviscal is a fairly popular hair growth supplement that contains vitamin B7 aka biotin, iron, zinc and fish oil - all extremely important elements not only for promoting hair growth but also healthy nails. |
Don’t traumatize your hair
Pay a lot of attention to the chemical and physical traumatic impact on your hair. You may want to consider to give up on hair styling foams, hairsprays and gels at least for some time until your hair gains strength. This is due to the fact that these products do more bad to your hair than good.
Avoid tight hairstyles as these put too much stress on your hair and basically pull your hair out of their roots. Excessive hair washing, hair dyeing and perming as well as blow-drying and styling your hair with a hair iron are all a big no-no if you want to grow voluptuous healthy hair.
Laugh more
Forget not that the earth delights to feel your bare feet and the winds long to play with your hair. – Khalil Gibran
Furthermore, it may sound banal but your overall psychological state can influence your hair growth too. If you live in a constant state of depression, stress and chronic sleep deprivation then the body is unlikely to sustain enough stamina in order to maximize the focus on the hair. Get plenty of rest and relax whenever possible. Sport is always only of benefit.
Abstain from drinking alcohol and smoking since these are not compatible with long and beautiful hair.
Conclusion
Promoting hair growth is a process. Don’t despair if some home remedies for hair growth don’t seem to work. Don’t give up too quickly. Have an integrated approach. Understand that it may take time for certain natural hair treatments to start to show their full glory.
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