TWO commonly used cooking ingredients are among little-known tricks to boost hair growth, according to an expert.
She shared can’t-miss tips for longer, thicker hair without expensive salon treatments.
Nicole Petty is a hair specialist at Milk + Blusha hair extensions company with celebrity clients including Kim Kardashian, Karlie Kloss and the Jenners.
Speaking to The US Sun, she shared advice on how to look after your hair.
HOME REMEDIES
Petty said rosemary has “high antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.”
This makes it a great natural ingredient to “grow, cleanse and condition” hair.
“The ursolic acid in rosemary works by strengthening circulation in the scalp to allow more oxygen and nutrients to the hair follicles,” she said.
“If you fancy creating your own solution, fill a jar with rosemary sprigs and olive oil and let it sit for a few hours before carefully massaging it into your scalp.
“For best results, dilute with a carrier oil, like jojoba or shampoo, to limit potential discomfort or irritation on sensitive skin, and add a sprig of lavender for extra fragrance.”
She said ginger is also “rich in antioxidants” and has antiseptic properties.
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She recommended using it to eliminate dandruff and scalp irritation while also improving blood circulation around the scalp to stimulate hair follicles.
She said the vitamins, minerals and fatty acids in ginger can “strengthen” hair and also provide long-term protection.
“You can create your own ginger hair mask by grating fresh ginger, squeezing the juice, and mixing in some coconut oil before applying it to your scalp,” she said.
“Massage with your fingertips for three minutes and let it sit for another 20 minutes before rinsing and washing your hair.”
Petty said regular exercise can also be beneficial for hair growth because when your heart beats faster, it increases blood flow and circulation.
“In turn, this results in more nutrients and oxygen reaching the scalp, which hair needs to grow,” she said.
“Plus, with increased cortisol levels in your system, the serotonin your body releases when you exercise is the best medicine you need to combat stress.
“A simple run or a relaxing yoga session can do the trick and get your blood flowing.”
PROBLEMATIC PRODUCTS
Petty said that “overuse of certain products” combined with at-home dye kits and excessive washing can damage hair.
“Harsh chemicals found in dyes and lightening kits can kill melanin and destroy hair follicles,” she said.
“Furthermore, excessive washing can cause strands to become brittle and break during styling.
“It can also damage follicles if natural oils are constantly stripped away.”
Sodium lauryl sulfate, parabens, propylene glycol, imidazolidinyl urea, and sodium chloride are among the hair care ingredients she recommends avoiding.
The omega-3 found in fish oil provides essential proteins and nutrients to hair follicles.
Nicole Petty
“Instead, look for products that contain essential oils like rosemary or tea tree, which help stimulate hair growth,” she said.
“And to avoid reactions to hair dye, it’s best to consult a color change professional, who will consult and perform a patch test.”
FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Petty said it’s important to have a nutritious diet, as the foods you eat affect your hair’s growth, strength, and volume.
“To ensure maximum hair health and prevent hair loss, consume plenty of foods rich in protein and iron, such as red meat, spinach and pumpkin seeds,” she said.
“Hair follicles are primarily made up of a protein called keratin, so when an adequate amount of protein is consumed, the hair produces higher levels of keratin, allowing the hair to repair and grow.
“Additionally, by consuming biotin-rich foods such as organic meats, egg yolks, nuts, bananas, cauliflower, and mushrooms, you can improve your body’s keratin infrastructure.”
She said that Omege-3, vitamins A, C and E are equally important to consume regularly.
“The omega-3s found in fish oil provide essential proteins and nutrients to hair follicles, prevent follicle inflammation, and promote circulation to the scalp,” she said.
“Vitamin A is found in foods such as sweet potatoes, carrots, milk, eggs and yogurt.
“It is a necessity for hair cell growth and is necessary to allow hair to remain hydrated.
“Vitamin C, found in strawberries, peppers, guavas and citrus fruits, is needed to produce collagen, prevent hair graying and help the body absorb iron.
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“Vitamin E is found in sunflower seeds, almonds, spinach and avocado.
“It is an antioxidant that can help prevent oxidative stress and stimulate hair growth.
“In addition to maintaining a healthy and balanced diet to prevent hair loss, it is also important to drink plenty of water, as a lack of water prevents cell reproduction.
“You should consume 8 cups a day to keep your hair healthy.”
Petty said juicing the aforementioned fruits and vegetables daily is an easy way to get the nutrients you need for healthy hair.
“By filling your body with essential nutrients, you can stimulate strong growth and prevent future hair loss or weakness,” she said.
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This story originally appeared on The-sun.com read the full story
