How Quickly Does Hair Grow
Have you ever wondered how quickly hair grows? Well, the answer may surprise you.
Without delay, let’s dive in and explore how fast hair grows.
How quickly does hair grow?
Generally speaking, according to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), the average person’s hair grows about half an inch per month.
That’s about six inches per year.
The Trichological Society says that hair grows at different rates depending on age, genetics, gender, and other factors, but the average is about 0.5cm – 1.7cm per month.
Of course, this can vary from person to person.
For example, some people may experience much faster hair growth, while others may experience slower growth.
Stages of hair growth
Did you know that there are three main stages of hair growth?
They are:
- Anagen phase – This is the growth phase. It can last anywhere from 2-8 years, and during this time, your hair will grow about 1cm per month.
- Catagen phase – This is the transitional phase. It lasts for about 2-3 weeks, and during this time, your hair growth will slow down.
- Telogen phase – This is the resting phase. It lasts for about 2-3 months, and during this time, your hair will not grow.
After the telogen phase, your hair will fall out, and a new anagen phase will begin.
This cycle will repeat itself throughout your lifetime.
What factors affect hair growth?
There are several factors that can affect how quickly your hair grows, including:
- Age: Hair growth tends to be fastest during your teenage years and slows down as you get older.
- Genetics: Your hair growth is determined by your genes. If your parents had fast-growing hair, you’re likely to have the same.
- Gender: Men typically have faster hair growth than women.
- Nutrient deficiencies: A lack of certain vitamins and minerals, such as iron, zinc, and vitamin B12, can lead to slow hair growth and even hair loss.
- Certain health conditions: Conditions like thyroid problems, lupus, psoriasis, and anemia can lead to hair loss or slower hair growth.
- Medications: Some medications, such as those used to treat cancer, can cause hair loss.
- Stress: The Mayo Clinic says that high levels of stress can cause you to lose your hair. But don’t worry. Once the stress is gone, your hair will grow back.
- Hormonal imbalance: An imbalance of hormones such as testosterone, estrogen, and thyroid hormones can cause slow hair growth and hair loss.
How can I speed up hair growth?
While you can’t necessarily “speed up” hair growth overnight, there are a few things you can do to promote healthy hair growth.
Here are some tips:
1. Eat a healthy diet
Your hair is made up of keratin, which is a protein, so it’s important to eat a diet that is rich in protein.
In addition to protein, you should also make sure you’re getting enough iron, zinc, and vitamins A, C, and E.
According to studies, these nutrients are essential for healthy hair growth.
2. Get enough sleep
One of the best things you can do for your hair is to get enough sleep.
A good night’s sleep will not only help you feel rested and refreshed, but it will also give your hair a chance to rest and repair itself.
When you’re sleep-deprived, your body doesn’t have the energy to do all the little things that keep your hair healthy, so make sure you’re getting enough shut-eye.
3. Take supplements
If you’re not getting enough of certain vitamins and minerals in your diet, you may want to consider taking supplements.
For example, if you’re deficient in iron, taking an iron supplement can help promote hair growth.
4. Reduce stress
As we mentioned, stress can lead to hair loss and slow hair growth.
If you’re experiencing high levels of stress, find ways to reduce it in your life.
This might include yoga, meditation, or other stress-relieving activities.
5. Avoid damaging your hair
As you know, over-washing, heat styling, and harsh chemicals can all damage your hair.
So, if you want to promote healthy hair growth, it’s important to avoid these things as much as possible.
Instead, opt for gentle cleansing and styling methods that won’t damage your hair.
6. Try essential oils
There are a few essential oils that are said to promote hair growth, including lavender oil, rosemary oil, and peppermint oil.
You can add a few drops of these oils to your shampoo or conditioner, or you can massage them into your scalp.
7. See a doctor
If you’re concerned about your hair growth or if you’re experiencing hair loss, it’s a good idea to see a doctor.
They can help identify any underlying health conditions that may be causing your hair problems and recommend the best course of treatment.
Final thoughts
The average person’s hair grows about 6 inches per year.
That’s about half an inch per month.
However, your hair growth can vary depending on factors like your age, genetics, diet, and stress levels.
But if you’re concerned about your hair growth or you’re experiencing hair loss, there are a few things you can do to promote healthy hair growth.
Eating a healthy diet, getting enough sleep, and reducing stress are all good ways to promote healthy hair growth.
You can also try taking supplements or using essential oils.
