A Guide to Growing Hair Around the Edges

For many individuals with natural hair, maintaining healthy edges can be a significant concern. The delicate hair around the edges, also known as the "edges" is susceptible to breakage, thinning, and even hair loss due to various factors like tension from styling, genetics, and improper care. However, with patience, dedication, and the right approach, growing and maintaining healthy edges is achievable. 

Understanding the Basics

Before delving into specific methods, it's crucial to understand the fundamentals of hair care and growth. Hair growth occurs in cycles and is influenced by factors like genetics, diet, lifestyle, and overall health. The hairline, being a sensitive area, requires gentle handling and specialized care to thrive.

Tips for Growing Hair Around the Edges

1. Gentle Handling

Avoid tight hairstyles that pull on the hairline, such as tight ponytails, braids, or weaves. Tension from these styles can lead to traction alopecia, a condition where constant pulling causes hair loss around the edges. Opt for looser styles that place minimal stress on the hairline. Growing back edges from tension alopecia is difficult and sometimes, impossible. 

2. Moisture is Key

Proper hydration is essential for maintaining the health of your hair and scalp. Regularly moisturize your edges using water-based leave-in conditioners or natural oils like coconut oil, jojoba oil, or castor oil. These moisturizers help prevent dryness and breakage, promoting healthier hair growth.

3. Protective Styling

Choose protective styles that safeguard the edges while allowing them to breathe and grow. Low-manipulation styles like twists, buns, and loose braids can help protect the hairline from damage caused by constant manipulation and exposure to harsh environmental elements.

4. Scalp Massage

Stimulate blood circulation to the scalp by incorporating regular scalp massages into your hair care routine. Gentle massages using your fingertips help nourish the hair follicles, promoting healthier and stronger hair growth around the edges.

5. Nutritious Diet

A balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and proteins is crucial for overall hair health. Incorporate foods high in vitamins A, C, E, and biotin, as well as protein-rich foods like fish, eggs, nuts, and leafy greens, to support hair growth from within.

6. Avoid Overprocessing

Minimize the use of heat styling tools and harsh chemical treatments, as they can weaken the hair shaft and contribute to breakage and thinning around the edges. Embrace your natural texture and explore heat-free styling methods to minimize damage.

7. Patience and Consistency

Hair growth takes time, so be patient and consistent with your hair care routine. Track your progress, take photos regularly, and celebrate small victories along the way. Remember that healthy hair growth is a journey, not a destination.

Growing hair around the edges requires a holistic approach that addresses both internal and external factors affecting hair health. By practicing gentle handling, maintaining moisture, adopting protective styling, promoting scalp circulation, nourishing your body from within, and exercising patience and consistency, you can encourage healthy hair growth and achieve the vibrant edges you desire. Again, desist from the same practices which caused the hair loss in the first place. Remember, embracing your natural hair is a beautiful journey of self-love and acceptance. Treat your hair with care, and watch it flourish.

For further hair consultation, please contact +233 204 600 464 or @eyanaturals on Facebook and Instagram.