Achieving the ideal hair length is not always easy. Fortunately, there are a few tricks up your sleeve... We tell you all about them.

We've all (more or less) dreamed of having long, beautiful, strong, shiny, healthy hair in the image of the figures who rocked our childhood: Pocahontas, Rapunzel and even Barbie. It's true that long hair that flatters the loins or the shoulders is very attractive. However, the exercise can be a little complicated. Especially for those who suffer from limited growth, dry, fine hair and easy breakage. Growing out your mane can be a real obstacle course. 

The beauty industry is well aware of this, and for some years now has been offering a wide range of solutions for the various hair problems that can arise. Hair rejuvenation cures, dietary supplements, cranial massages, special shampoos and more... There are many solutions, but it's important to know what's real and what's not. In this article, we give you the best (and most reliable) tips for long, shiny, beautiful hair. 

How do you define your hair type? These tips from our beauty guide could help you take better care of your mane. 

Understanding hair growth 

Hair growth is a complex biological process that takes place in the hair follicles of the skin. To learn a little more, and above all to understand what happens at scalp level, here are some key aspects of the principle of healthy hair growth: 

The hair growth cycle 

Hair growth goes through a three-phase cycle:

Anagen phase: This is the phase of active hair growth. Hair root cells divide rapidly, producing new hair cells. This phase can last from 2 to 7 years, and largely determines hair length.

Catagen phase: This is a transitional phase when hair growth slows down. It generally lasts a few weeks.

Telogen phase: This is the resting phase when hair is not actively growing. At the end of this phase, the hair naturally falls out, and a new growth cycle begins.

Internal factors 

Influence génétique : La génétique joue un rôle majeur dans la vitesse de croissance des cheveux, leur texture et leur épaisseur. Vos gènes déterminent en grande partie votre potentiel de croissance capillaire.

Hormonal factors: Hormones, particularly sex hormones (estrogen and testosterone), influence hair growth. Hormonal changes linked to age, pregnancy or other factors can affect hair growth and density.

Nutrition and general health: A balanced diet rich in essential nutrients, such as proteins, vitamins (including biotin, vitamin A, vitamin C) and minerals (such as iron and zinc), promotes hair growth. In addition, underlying health problems, such as nutritional deficiencies, hormonal imbalances or skin diseases, can affect hair health.

 Les facteurs externes 

Hair care: Proper hair care can help maintain hair growth and promote optimal hair health. This includes regular washing, protection against heat and chemical damage, and the use of quality, natural hair care products such as castor oil, a strengthening hair serum, a homemade mask, cider vinegar and gentle styling.

Stress and lifestyle: Chronic stress can disrupt the hair growth cycle, causing excessive hair loss. A healthy lifestyle, stress management and a good night's sleep are important for maintaining healthy hair.

Age: Hair growth can slow with age. Hair often becomes thinner and more fragile as we age.

The right hair routine to maintain long hair

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To maintain healthy long hair, it's essential to adopt a proper hair routine. Here's a multi-step routine to care for your long hair:

Le lavage des cheveux 

This is the number-one step in good hair care. Use a mild shampoo suited to your hair type. The frequency of washing will depend on your hair type, but in general, it's recommended not to wash your hair every day to avoid drying it out. 2 to 3 times a week is more than enough. Then use a conditioner or hair mask to moisturize and detangle your hair, applying it to the lengths and ends. Leave on for a few minutes, then rinse. Be careful to avoid hot water, which can damage hair by drying it out. Opt instead for lukewarm to cool water when washing and rinsing your hair.

Hair styling

To dry, avoid rubbing your hair vigorously with a towel, as this can cause breakage. Dab gently to remove excess water. Avoid using a high-temperature hair dryer. If you do use a hair dryer, set it to a lower temperature and use a heat protector. To style hair,use a wide-tooth comb or soft brush to detangle strands, starting with the ends and gradually working your way up to the roots. Avoid pulling on knots, as this can cause breakage.

Les soins

Faites confiance le plus possible au naturel ! Réduisez l'utilisation de produits chimiques agressifs tels que les colorations fréquentes ou les défrisants. Ces traitements peuvent endommager les cheveux, en particulier les longueurs. Pensez à couper les pointes régulièrement afin de vous débarrasser des fourches et leur offrir un aspect rajeunissant. 

Protect your hair 

From the heat, thanks to thermoprotective protection, but also from external aggressors such as the sun, wind and cold. Remember to wear a hat for long exposure to the sun. You can also opt for a UV-protective lotion. When it's windy, tie your hair back, and when it's very cold, always wear a cap, and moisturize your strands with specific care products. At night, it's best to sleep on a silk pillowcase, to preserve not only the hair fiber but also the cutaneous balance of your facial skin.

 4 Natural Tips to Promote Hair Growth  

There are several natural tricks that can help promote hair growth. Keep in mind that hair growth is largely determined by genetic factors, but these tricks can help maintain the health of your hair and create a favorable environment for optimal growth. Here are five natural tips:

Scalp massage:

A gentle scalp massage stimulates blood circulation to the area being massaged, which can not only promote hair growth but also prevent hair loss. Use your fingers to massage your scalp for a few minutes every day, using circular movements. Special brushes and hair tools are also available for this purpose. 

Using essential oils in your hair routine: 

Certain essential oils, such as rosemary oil, peppermint oil and lavender oil, are reputed to promote hair growth. You can dilute a few drops of oil in a vegetable oil (such as coconut oil or sweet almond oil) and gently massage the mixture into your scalp.

Wash your hair regularly:

Keeping your hair and scalp clean is important for hair health. However, avoid washing your hair too frequently, as over-washing can strip it of its natural protective oils. Choose a gentle shampoo suited to your hair type (oily hair, fine hair, dry hair)... Shampoo at least twice a week and avoid products containing harsh sulfates. You can finish your rinse with cider vinegar or a special vinegar to strengthen scales, add shine and make hair care easier.

Prendre des compléments alimentaires 

Dietary supplements can be used to complement an already balanced diet. These are highly effective in helping hair growth. They are now available in all shapes and sizes, in ampoules for drinking, capsules for ingesting and gummies for chewing.