Why Doesn’t My Hair Seem To Be Growing?

Learn more about the reasons why your hair might be damaged or isn’t growing properly. Discover the best ways to care for your hair—so it remains healthy and vibrant.

We’ve all had it happen—you get a drastic cut, and as the months go by, you realize your hair has barely grown an inch. Meanwhile, your friend down the hall went from a bob cut to waist-length hair in one semester. What’s to give!

In reality, many factors could contribute to why your hair isn’t growing. Much of the time, it isn’t that your hair isn’t growing, rather, it is breaking off at the ends before it even has a chance. Read this guide to learn about the causes of thinning hair or delayed growth and how you can resolve some of these issues for long, luscious locks.

1) Straightening or Blow-Drying Hair Too Often 

Anytime you are applying heat to your hair, there is an opportunity for damage to occur. As there are many different hair types with a range of fineness, some people’s hair can handle prolonged heat exposure better than others. Generally speaking, too much heat breaks down the protective layers of the hair strands, making them prone to breakage and split ends. Though your hair is likely growing, the damage and breakage that occurs prevent you from reaching the desired length. Though it may take more time, air-drying your hair or using a soft cotton fabric will be much kinder to your hair. If you use a flat iron or curling wand, be sure to use a heat protectant on your hair beforehand.

2) Taking Showers That Are Too Hot 

Though we all relish a scorching shower after a long day, hot water can actually strip your hair and scalp of essential oils. Without these oils, the scalp can become dry, and the environment becomes less inducive to hair growth. Not to mention, the hair strands themselves can become frayed and brittle from the heat, meaning the hair breaks before you can notice any hair growth.

3) Vitamin or Mineral Deficiencies in Your Diet 

There are many supported arguments that your diet can affect not only the look and feel of your hair but how it grows. If a person is deficient in vital nutrients, this could eventually even lead to hair loss. Foods rich in protein, vitamin C, vitamin A, vitamin E, and other minerals have all been linked to promoting healthy hair. Dark leafy greens, eggs, nuts, and fish full of essential amino acids have usually been heralded as supporting durable locks and strong nails

4) Genetics and Age 

Unfortunately, much of the way your hair looks and behaves is down to genetics. As we age, hair tends to lose its vitality and often grows thinner. Some people will have a predisposition for fuller hair that grows faster, while others may have hair that takes longer to grow or is naturally sparser. The best we can do is to appreciate our natural hair, take care of it, and give our hair the much-needed love and R&R it deserves, regardless of our current age.

5) Not Getting Enough Frequent Haircuts 

Contrary to what many believe, getting frequent haircuts is one of the best ways to help your hair grow longer. Though it may seem like a step backward when you’re sitting in the chair and seeing the scissors move, it is extremely beneficial for hair growth. Cutting off dry, damaged ends ensures that your hair can continue to grow without breaking off. It’s true—your hair isn’t growing any faster at the follicle. It just isn’t breaking off or splitting at the ends anymore, resulting in overall longer hair.

6) Using Too Many Harsh Chemicals

The products we use can alter the overall health of our hair. Using chemicals and too many harsh hair treatments can lead to frazzled hair that has weaker integrity. Dyes and bleach can especially be damaging to the hair, so always be sure to go to a specialist when dealing with hair color. Cosmetologists and hairdressers can lighten or darken your hair without causing long-term damage.

7) Stress and Poor Circulation 

There has also been some evidence that stress and poor circulation can cause diminished hair growth. For your overall health, you should always be aware of your stress levels and take moments in your day to breathe and recenter yourself. Exercise and a healthy diet can also help reduce stress levels. To counter poor circulation on the scalp, several studies have concluded that regular massage can improve blood flow to the area.

8) Untreated Hormone Imbalance 

Sometimes brittle hair, hair loss, or thinning can be a sign of hormonal imbalance. One of the main culprits is a thyroid condition, (an overactive or underactive thyroid can have a symptom of hair loss). If you are struggling with weight changes, lethargy, anxiety, heart rate fluctuations, and other symptoms, be sure to make an appointment with your doctor. Do not attempt to combat a hormone imbalance on your own—your doctor will be able to run tests and confirm if you need treatment.

Haircare has evolved to the point that it has become both a science and a field of beautification. If you enjoy styling and taking care of the health of your hair, you should consider starting a career in cosmetology. Cosmetology school will further your knowledge about everything hair and even train you to be an expert stylist and colorist. Taking the next steps doesn’t have to be challenging. Connect online today or call 800-62-SALON (72566). Enrollment advisors are ready to assist you!