My Routine
Important: Only do this routine once a week, regardless of how dirty or gross your hair feels. I don't care if your hair feels gross or you think you need to wash it. Suck it up, wear a hat, and deal with it.
Step 0: Prepare
- Apply rosemary oil to your scalp
- Massage for about 5 minutes
- Let it sit for as long as possible
Rationale: While I'm not certain of its effectiveness, the tingling sensation makes it feel like it's working.
Research: A 2015 study published in SKINmed Journal found that rosemary oil was as effective as minoxidil (a common hair growth treatment) for promoting hair growth in people with androgenetic alopecia^1.
Step 1: Clean
- Use a clarifying shampoo
- If hair is particularly dirty, shampoo twice
Rationale: This strips out oils and residue, thoroughly cleaning your hair.
Products: Kristen Ess Claifying Shampoo
Research: Clarifying shampoos are designed to remove buildup from styling products, hard water minerals, and natural oils. They can help restore shine and manageability to hair^2.
Step 2: Protect
- Apply a heat protectant throughout your hair
Rationale: Protects hair from heat damage during blow-drying or other heat styling.
Products: Bumble and Bumble Invisible Oil
Research: A 2011 study in the Annals of Dermatology found that applying a heat protectant before using flat irons significantly reduced hair damage^3.
Step 3: Moisturize
- Apply hair creams, oils, or leave-in conditioners
Rationale: This makes your hair soft and shiny.
Products: R&C hair crème, bonding oil
Research: A 2021 review in the International Journal of Trichology highlighted the importance of hair moisturization in maintaining hair health and preventing damage^4.
Step 4: Maintain
- For long hair, apply oils to the ends morning and night throughout the week
Products: Ouai oil
Research: Regular application of hair oils, especially to the ends, can help prevent split ends and breakage, which is crucial for growing long hair^5.
Additional Tips
- If your hair feels very dry, use a hair mask once a week
- Supplements/Lifestyle:
- Prioritize getting enough sleep and managing stress
- Consider biotin supplements (though effectiveness is debatable)
Research: A 2019 study in Dermatology Practical & Conceptual found that lack of sleep and high stress levels can negatively impact hair growth and health^6.
Key to Long Hair: Consistently oiling and maintaining the health of your ends is crucial. While hair grows from the root, keeping it healthy as it grows is essential for length retention.