In recent history with the re-emergence of the natural hair movement growing long thick hair seems to be the focus for many black girls out here. So in this post I will discuss the importance of hair retention for Black hair and dispel some common misconceptions about hair growth. So we can adjust and tailor our approach to get the results we want.
I noticed when I did my big chop and was looking for content to aid my natural hair journey content surrounding rapid hair growth has and is the most popular content on blogs, instagram and YouTube.
Many methods coming out saying such and such would grow your hair two inches every week and people were so invested in the methods they convinced themselves of it working from rice water, hot oil treatments to the inversion method none of these things actually ‘rapidly growing’ your hair.
Growth Vs. Retention
Each person has an optimum amount of hair growth but on average its one inch a month and nothing you can do will change the amount of hair growing out of your head. So the growth is taken care of and doesn’t need to be worried about.
The real issue is retention and that is what needs to be focused on which means minimising shedding, breakage and tangles. Our hair grows about an inch a month nothing can actually increase that. So what we need to focus on now is making sure that inch is maintained and is maintained each month.
Hair retention means focusing on the strength and health of your hair and making sure the inch that you have grown over the month is kept adding to length over time.One of the critical factors for achieving long and healthy hair is understanding hair retention. In this article, we will discuss the importance of hair retention for Black hair and dispel some common misconceptions about hair growth.
Why Hair Retention Matters for Natural Hair
Black hair is often more prone to breakage and damage than other hair types due to its unique texture. Good hair retention practices, such as protective styling, deep conditioning, and using gentle products, can help maintain the health and length of Black hair. Understanding your hair and how to retain your length will allow you to take control of your hair journey and achieve your desired hair goals.
Debunking Hair Growth Misconceptions
There are many misconceptions about hair growth, and some of them can be detrimental to hair health. Here are a few of the most common hair growth misconceptions and the truth behind them:
1. Regular trims will make your hair grow faster
While regular trims can help remove split ends and prevent further breakage, they do not directly impact the rate of hair growth. Hair grows from the roots, not the ends.
2. Brushing your hair 100 strokes a day will make it grow
Brushing your hair frequently can help distribute natural oils, but it does not impact the rate of hair growth. Excessive brushing can also cause breakage, especially for Black hair.
3. Hair supplements will make your hair grow faster
While taking vitamins and supplements can improve overall hair health, they do not directly impact the rate of hair growth. A balanced diet and proper hair care practices are more effective for promoting healthy hair growth.
4. Cutting off relaxed or heat-damaged hair will result in healthier faster hair growth
While removing relaxed or heat-damaged hair can help reduce breakage, it does not guarantee healthier hair growth. Proper hair care practices, such as using heat protectants and limiting heat styling, are essential for promoting healthy hair growth.
5. Hair oils will speed up your hair growth
Lastly, there is no oil, even ones designed for the scalp, that will speed up your hair growth when you actually look at the packaging it will say it aids in retention which promotes hair growth. The language is slightly confusing and it is easy to get confused. Anyone promising rapid hair growth when selling their own oils you can trust and believe that you won’t get the results you are after and to just leave it alone if thats the angle they are coming from. I find it exploitative and dishonest.
If you struggle with hair growth beyond this I highly recommend seeking out a medical advice, a trichologist (one that specialises in black hair).
Now we have cleared all that up please remember hair retention is a critical aspect of maintaining healthy and long Black hair. You can take control of your hair journey and achieve your desired hair goals. Remember to practice gentle hair care, protect your hair when possible, and nourish your hair from the inside out.
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