Photo Credit: @Quistyle (On Instagram)

We've all seen pictures of black girls on Instagram and Facebook with long hair and we admire and appreciate it but in the back of our minds we are thinking "good for them, but that will never be me." Why do we do that?

People think afro hair does not grow or grows to a particular length and stops. Should we resign our efforts just because studies have been conducted that implied that afro hair grows at a slower rate than all other hair types? This might be an 'Aha!' moment for some, but, the fact is, all hair grows. When we can accept that then we can do something about it. Below are some reasons why you may be feeling that afro hair is harder to grow and some practical solutions to tackle them.

Photo Credit: Hariscapades.com

1. Knotting

Afro hair has more knots than other hair types, and whenever our hair knots, a weak point is exposed in our hair shaft and can become permanently damaged. This is just what our hair does, when we accept it, and don't get frustrated with it then we can deal with it appropriately. I can't remember the last time I successfully untied a single strand knot. The best thing to do with these is cut them off (do not pull). 

Photo Credit: rehairducation.com

2. Shape

If we pulled one of our hair strands straight and stared down the length of it like a straw with a microscope, we'd see that the shape of our hair strands are oval. Asian and Caucasian hair strands are more circular in shape. Studies have suggested that the oval shape of afro hair strands is a cause of weakness. If true, this can cause our hair to break more, leaving us with the impression that our hair isn't growing. The practical solution to this is to be gentle when dealing with our hair. Wear protective styles more often and stretch and colour your hair less if you can so your hair gets enough rest time.

3. Manifestation

If we don't act like our hair can and will grow - it wont. Simple. You have to have the mindset that will enable your coils and curls to flourish to their best ability. Having the will to nurture your hair growth will transform your journey. How can you do this? Wash and de-tangle when you have the time as rushing will cause damage. Eat foods rich in vitamins and minerals and proteins, hydrate your body and exercise. Applying product is only part of the battle, the rest is down to what is going on inside you. So be sure to make the most of that to see the best results.

Hair'negy Hydrating Hair Mist contains a natural ingredient that has been proven to reverse temporary hair loss and increase growth by up to 27%. Get yours!

Watch my video on Length Retention

Are you guilty of thinking you can't achieve long hair? is long hair even your goal? Please leave your comments below.