It is a worldwide misconception that African hair can barely grow past shoulder length. The term Nappy hair is a derogatory term used to describe a black person’s hair. Despite the fact that the rate of hair growth is greatly influenced by genetic factors, practicing a proper hair care routine can boost hair growth and limit hair loss. The argument that black hair can barely grow past shoulder length is based on the assumption that kinky hair stops growing at some point, this is not true. Those with kinky hair know that their hair grows several inches out of their skull every month. The question is where does the length go?
The greatest challenge when caring for kinky hair is how to retain its length. Most Africans do not have long hair because they don’t know how to care for it and hence end up losing its length. The women of Chad discovered a traditional powder, Chebe which is used to retain the length of their kinky hair. They have used this powder for years and it is believed to be the main reason behind their rich and long hair.
Before we look at the DIY hair growth serums, here are a few hair care tips for kinky hair.
1. Use warm oils instead of cold oils
2. Never comb shampooed hair.
3. Always condition your hair after washing with shampoo
4. Avoid relaxers
5. Avoid unnecessary combing of hair especially when the hair is dry. Use a brush instead.
Aloe Vera Hair Growth Serum
Ingredients
Coconut oil
Aloe Vera leaf
Vitamin E capsules/ oil
Method
The natural aloe Vera plant effectively boosts hair growth. The trick to growing your hair is ensuring it gets enough moisture.
Cut off the bottom and top parts of the aloe leaf and cube the remaining part and blend.
Alternatively, you may skin one part of the leaf and use a spoon to scrap off the gel and blend.
Pour the gel into a pan and add an equal amount of coconut oil into the pan.
Heat the mixture under medium heat until the aloe Vera gel turns lumpy
Turn off the heat and allow it to cool a little.
Sieve the warm oil into a glass jar and add in a tablespoon of vitamin E oil.
Your hair growth serum is ready for use
Apply the warm oil on the scalp, and length of the hair. Do not forget to massage your scalp.
TIP: Aloe Vera is an effective shampoo and conditioner on its own. Apply the gel on your hair and leave it overnight, rinse with plain water in the morning then apply the above hair growth serum for maximum results.