Tuesday, June 19, 2012

Tips for Growing Thicker, Fuller Hair


It is no secret how much I loathe my hair.  It is really thin, fine, limp, and lifeless.  I would trade hair with just about anyone really.    I went to the dermatologist to see if there was anything that could be causing me to lose hair or if there was a medicine they could give me that would help me grow back my hair.  The doctor told me there was nothing wrong with me and that the texture of my hair had changed.  Fine, thin hair is my new hair texture and I am just going to have to learn to deal. (Bummer!).  There are some products that I have become familiar with that have helped my hair appear fuller and thicker as well as helped me grow more hair.  



Big Sexy Hair Products: I have been using Big Sexy Hair shampoo, conditioner and root pump for the past 2 years.  I really like these products because they help give my hair volume, especially the root pump!  The root pump is put in your damp roots and then you blow dry your hair for mega volume!  Sometimes the products can be a bit pricey but I have been able to find them at Marshalls or TJMaxx for reduced prices.  In general, I always buy volumizing hair products but if you are interested in a specific brand you can try these!  

Paul Mitchell Strength Super Strong Daily Treatment




Paul Mitchell Strength: I did a YT video about the Paul Mitchell Strength Super Strong hair products.  These products are designed specifically to help strengthen, smooth and repair hair.   When I noticed a lot of fallout in the shower and on my bed pillow, I started using the shampoo, conditioner and liquid leave in treatment.  I noticed within the first 2 weeks that my amount of fallout had significantly decreased!  I was so excited!!    




Nioxin Scalp Treatment 2


Nioxin Scalp Treatment (#2):   This was another shampoo/conditioner and leave in foam treatment I used as well.  This treatment (#2) was specifically for natural fine hair that is noticeably thinning.  There are different numbers for different hair textures.  The treatment helps to repair the hair shaft from inside out using a combination of vitamins for the scalp. 
*One thing about the foam leave in serum is that too much will make your dry hair feel greasy!*




Nubian Heritage Grow & Strengthen Treatment Masque

 Nubian Heritage Grow and Strengthen Masque:  I use this before I wash my hair.  I wet my hair and then coat it in this hair masque for 15-30 minutes before I take my shower.  It helps condition my hair and leaves my hair feeling soft and looking shiny.  It says it helps to grow and strengthen by stopping breakage.  I try to use this masque at least 1-2 times per week.  You can find it at Target in the ethnic hair product aisle. 



Rogaine/Minoxidil
 Minoxidil a.k.a. Rogaine:  I use 2% Minoxidil on my hair every time I wash it.  After I towel dry my hair I add 2 full squirts of the Minoxidil all over my scalp.  I have had the most success with this and have experienced increased hair growth within 4 weeks of using it!  There is Minoxidil with a higher percentage but those are often marketed for men.  I would be hesitant to use a stronger percentage of Minoxidil because of possible side effects including increased body hair.  The only downside of using Minoxidil is that once you start you can't stop.  If you start Minoxidil, grow back hair and then decide to stop taking it, all the hair you grew will eventually begin to fall out.  I know this from personal experience.  I was using Minoxidil for awhile about 3 years ago and had grown hair.  I decided after some time that I didn't need to use it anymore because I had grown hair.  Within a year I realized I had lost most if not all the hair I had grown.   I was devastated!  

Left Pic: My hair after using Minoxidil Right Pic: My hair 6 months after stopping Minoxidil
 In January of this year, I started using Minoxidil again on a regular basis and I grew back a significant amount of the hair I had lost.  So I will have to continue to use this treatment to maintain my hair growth.  I am nowhere near to having a full head of thick, gorgeous Kim K hair but it's fuller than it was!   *One side effect is a tender scalp that tends to get a little itchy sometimes.  However, an itchy scalp is a small price to pay for having a little more hair on my head.* 


Biotin


Biotin: I was introduced to Biotin by a hair dresser who cut my hair.  She suggested that I try taking it because she heard from other clients that it was good for hair.  Biotin is basically a water soluble B-vitamin that promotes healthy hair, skin and nails.  It increases hair elasticity which helps to stop breakage/fall out.  It helps make your hair shiny and healthy.  In addition, it also helps your nails grow faster and stronger.  It also helps make your skin look healthy and clear.  I won't get into a long scientific paragraph because you can research it more if you are interested.  Here is a useful article I found online.  I get my Biotin at CVS, Walgreens, etc.  You can find it in most drugstores where they sell natural supplements and vitamins.  It is also a reasonable price; not expensive.  If you have any hesitation or questions I would contact my dermatologist to make sure it is safe for you to use.  However, I have not had any problems taking this supplement. 

Good luck with your hair growth and care!!!   


-xo, Michelle G