Myth Busted: Dirty Hair Grows Faster
hair + beauty, Thank God Im Natural
June 8, 2016
Ashley
At some point in their lives most black women have heard the phrase,” dirty hair grows faster”. Some took it literally and left protective styles in far too long, didn’t wash their hair or their children’s hair for months, or allowed hair to become clogged by putting excessive products on the scalp. Some watched their hair grow like weeds while others hair stayed stagnant. So the question remains, does dirty hair grow faster?
The simple answer is no. Dirty or clean hair does not grow any faster than the other. Hair in itself does not control growth instead hair growth is determined by your overall health, genetics and the health of the scalp. If the scalp is clogged by excessive oils or grease it is going to be more difficult for hair follicles to grow out of the scalp.
Some women refer to dirty hair meaning that it is washed less often. Hair being washed less doesn’t necessarily make it “dirty”. If you are only physically washing your hair with shampoo once a month but cleansing your scalp with essential oils or dry shampoos that actually could be more beneficial for women with tighter curl textures.
The other positive to not washing hair as often if you are wearing your hair in straight styles is that you most likely are not putting as much heat or manipulation on hair which could cause damage, breakage or shedding, making it appear as if hair is not growing.
On the flip side for many women who wear their hair in natural styles, by washing it with sulphate free shampoos and deep conditioning it weekly while wearing it in protective styles and keeping hair moisturized they see tons of growth.
Aside from grooming practices, just like any other part of your body hair is able to thrive when you are healthy and taking care of your body from the inside out. Eating plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, drinking water and exercising regularly all aid in not only hair growth but your overall health.
So all in all, if by washing your hair less you feel you notice more growth and less breakage then stick to what works for you. The key is maintaining a healthy scalp and well moisturized hair while keeping it protected.
When do you notice most hair growth?
Ashley Renee is a licensed esthetician,makeup artist, natural hair enthusiast, writer and poet from Chicago,residing in Los Angeles! Follow her on instagram @ashleyreneepoet, twitter and personal blog why I Waited