Too much stress, flu, nutrient deficiencies or hormone fluctuations can lead to increased hair loss. Affected people then want fast hair growth to regain full hair. Learn here how to stimulate hair regrowth faster naturally.
The phases of the hair cycle – how does hair growth work?
Hair is a horny substance and, like fingernails and toenails, consists mainly of keratin. In the center of the hair root is the hair papilla. From there, the hair is formed. The hair papilla is supplied with nutrients via the smallest blood vessels and produces the horny filaments above it. Each individual hair goes through a hair cycle. This cycle takes place individually and depends on genes, hormones and other growth factors. This means that each hair goes through its hair cycle at a different time.
The hair cycle can be divided into the following three phases: In the growth phase, also called the anagen phase, the hair is nourished by the hair root and grows. Between 85 and 90 percent of all hairs are in this active phase. It can last from three to seven years. During this time, hair grows about 0.3 millimeters per day. After this, the hair enters the transition phase, also called the catagen phase. In this phase, the hair is no longer supplied with nutrients and the hair root becomes increasingly keratinized. Approximately one to three percent of all hairs are in this state. However, this stage only lasts for about three weeks. This is followed by the telogen phase, in which the hair rests and is then shed. The hairs are only loosely anchored and fall out when the hair is washed or brushed. The telogen phase lasts for about two to four months. Around 12 to 15 percent of the hair is in this phase.
Since each hair is in a different phase of the hair cycle but the majority of hairs are in the growth phase, they continue to grow continuously. Per month, the average hair growth is about 1.2 centimeters.
Hair loss can have serious causes
In fact, there are various factors that have an impact on hair growth. Behind increased hair loss sometimes there are even serious causes. Therefore, it should always be taken seriously and the causes discussed with a doctor. In the following, we explain what you should pay attention to in hair care, which home remedies and nutrition stimulate hair growth and how health can affect hair.
Home remedies that stimulate hair growth
There are some home remedies that are said to stimulate hair growth. Especially nettle, parsley, sage and rosemary are often used to activate the hair roots so that the hair sprouts faster. To do this, the herbs are diluted with water to form a decoction and massaged into the scalp. Regular weekly use is said to show improvement. However, there are no scientific studies on this.
Other home remedies that promote hair growth are:
Sodium bicarbonate shampoo: Those who regularly use styling products such as hairspray and gel should make sure to regularly rid their scalp of excess product residue so that the hair can grow. For this purpose, baking soda is ideal, because it is able to remove all styling residues on the scalp naturally. You can use it as a shampoo by mixing two tablespoons of baking soda with some lukewarm water.
Acid Rinse: After cleaning with the sodium bicarbonate shampoo, a so-called acid rinse is recommended. It closes the hair and stabilizes the pH balance of the scalp. Acid rinse is nothing more than apple cider vinegar, which you pour over your hair after shampooing and do not rinse. This soothes the scalp and creates the foundation for healthy hair growth. The smell of vinegar disappears after just a few seconds.
Aloe Vera: The Aloe Vera plant is also a popular home remedy for hair growth. The gel of the plant is known for its moisturizing, immune stimulating and wound healing properties. It can be used pure or mixed with other ingredients such as honey and oil and applied as a hair treatment all over the head.
Natural Oils: Natural oils are also said to boost hair growth. Coconut, olive, and castor oils are said to help the most. Coconut oil prevents a lack of fatty acids in the hair structure, as it penetrates deep into the hair and nourishes it from the inside with valuable fatty acids. Castor oil is rich in omega-6 fatty acids, strengthens hair and boosts growth. Olive oil, on the other hand, contains important antioxidants that protect against free radicals and reduces the release of the hormone responsible for hair loss. Incorporate one of these oils into your hair care routine and protect your hair from harmful environmental factors in the process. However, the oil can only work properly on the scalp if it is free of silicones. The best way to work the oil in is with a scalp massage. This simultaneously reduces stress and stimulates blood flow to the hair follicles.
Diet for fast hair regrowth
A healthy diet rich in vitamins also has a positive effect on hair growth. Nutrient deficiency, on the other hand, causes hair loss. Especially as a result of iron deficiency, hair loss can occur. Certain vitamins and minerals, on the other hand, stimulate hair growth. These include:
- B vitamins especially biotin
- Iron
- Zinc
- Copper
- Magnesium
- Selenium
- Folic acid
- Vitamin A, C, D & E
Since hair is largely made up of the protein keratin, it is important to eat enough protein-containing foods. Vegetable protein from soy, legumes, potatoes and cereals is more valuable here than animal protein.
Foods that contain the above vitamins and nutrients and support hair growth are:
- fresh fruit
- vegetables (especially green ones)
- legumes
- nuts, seeds and kernels
- fish and seafood
- linseed, olive, hemp seed oil
- Whole grain products
- Eggs and dairy products
- lean meat from poultry, beef or game
Those who suffer from nutrient deficiencies should compensate for them with appropriate preparations. This will also have a positive effect on the hair. In addition, you should not forget to drink at least 1.5 to 2 liters of water. Herbal teas are also good for healthy hair. Green tea in particular is said to stimulate hair growth due to its ingredients. Since hair consists of three percent omega-3 fatty acids, you should consume enough of them. The healthy fatty acids can be found in fish, chia seeds, walnuts or flax seeds. Many of these fats also contain vitamin E, which hair follicles also need for hair growth.
Health influences hair growth
Much can be read about health from the skin and hair. Women often suffer from hair loss due to hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy, menopause or after changing a hormonal contraceptive. However, thyroid disorders, nutrient deficiencies and excessive stress can also have a negative effect on hair growth.
- Goodbye gorgeous hair: When hair falls out en masse
- Strong and healthy hair: tips and tricks for men’s hair
- Severe hair loss: causes, types and treatment
- Loss of scalp hair: Which remedies really help with hair loss?
- Fear of hair loss: How much hair loss a day is normal?
- Causes of hair loss: how intestinal health affects hair
- What women advise men: This is what you should avoid if you have hair loss
Therefore, it is important to pay attention to body signals and practice a healthy lifestyle. A balanced diet, regular exercise and stress reduction, as well as abstaining from nicotine and alcohol, also contribute to keeping hair healthy and growing.
