One thing that I have learned from being natural is that my hair loves a routine. Everyone’s hair is different, but one thing is for certain, if you are good to your hair your hair will be good to you. It takes time to figure out what products work for you and how often you should use them. Once you figure out your personal routine the health of your hair will flourish and grow. Listed below are a ten tips that I live by for my hair growth routine.

1. Wash your hair at least once a week (if you are wearing your hair curly) and at least once every two weeks (if you are wearing your hair straight). Be very gentle with your hair while its wet because this is when your hair is its weakest.
2. Moisturize your hair as often as needed. Natural hair is notorious for being dry. Your hair will tell you if it’s dry. LISTEN! Pay special attention to the ends of your hair because they are the oldest.
3. Give yourself scalp massages . Massaging your scalp helps to stimulate growth. I massage my scalp every time I moisturize.
4. Limit the amount of heat you use on your hair. Too much heat literally fries your hair.This means no flatiron everyday. Try to air dry or diffuse on a low heat setting. If you absolutely have to use heat use a heat protectant.
5. DEEP CONDITION! DEEP CONDITION! DEEP CONDITION! Can you tell how important I think this is? I have learned that if you deep condition  on a regular basis (I do this every time I wash my hair) your hair will love you for this. It’s like giving your hair a spa treatment.
6. Use wide tooth combs. Most of those small combs rip your hair out.
7. Do a protein treatment every six weeks. Our hair is made up of protein.Harsh chemical treatments, exposure to sun, pollution and lack of proper care can lead to the breakage and dull hair. Protein treatments help to restore and strengthen your hair. Be sure not to do protein treatments too often or this will make your hair even more brittle.
8. Protect the ends of your hair. The ends of your hair are the oldest part of your hair. Making sure your ends are tucked , braided, and/ or moisturized helps retain length. Trim ONLY if needed. Trimming your hair too often will make it seem like your hair isn’t growing when it really is.
9. Protective style. Weaves, braids, and wigs (and other extensions) are a amazing when you are trying to grow your hair out. Just remember that you need to take care of the hair beneath. Don’t keep these protective styles in too long and make sure its not braided too tightly. Too tight braids lead to thinning hair.
10. Lastly, let your hair be. I know. I know! I just gave you a full list of all the things you should do to your hair. I mean try not to touch your hair too much once its styled. Constant combing and brushing leads to breakage and split ends.

I hope that my routine inspires you to create your own. Your hair will thank you for this!