Full and healthy hair edges, also known as the “baby hairs” or “edges,” are the delicate hairs that frame the hairline along the forehead. However, due to various reasons such as genetics, styling practices, and environmental factors, many individuals may experience thinning or damage to their hair edges. Fortunately, there are ways to promote the growth of hair edges and restore them to their former glory. In this article, we will explore tips and techniques on how to grow hair edges.
- Be Gentle with Your Edges: One of the most critical factors in growing healthy hair edges is to be gentle with them. Avoid harsh styling practices such as tight ponytails, braids, or other styles that pull on the hairline. Constant tension and pressure on the edges can cause stress to the hair follicles, leading to hair breakage and thinning. Opt for looser hairstyles that do not place excessive stress on the edges, and avoid using hair accessories that can cause friction or damage, such as tight headbands or clips.
- Keep Your Edges Moisturized: Moisture is crucial for hair health, including the edges. Dry and brittle hair is more prone to breakage, so it’s essential to keep your edges moisturized. Use a water-based moisturizer or natural oils such as coconut oil, jojoba oil, or castor oil to keep your edges hydrated. Gently massage the moisturizer or oil onto your edges with your fingertips, and avoid using excessive heat or harsh chemicals that can strip the hair of its natural moisture.
- Avoid Heat Styling: Excessive use of heat styling tools, such as flat irons, curling irons, and hair dryers, can damage the hair shaft and weaken the edges. If you must use heat styling tools, use them sparingly and at the lowest heat setting possible. Always apply a heat protectant spray before using heat styling tools to create a barrier between the heat and your hair edges. Consider air-drying your hair or using heatless styling methods, such as twist-outs or braid-outs, to minimize heat damage.
- Eat a Healthy Diet: Proper nutrition plays a crucial role in promoting healthy hair growth, including the edges. Eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and proteins can provide the necessary nutrients for hair growth. Include foods such as leafy green vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, fish, eggs, and lean meats in your diet. Additionally, drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, as dehydration can affect the health of your hair and scalp.
- Protect Your Edges at Night: Protecting your edges while you sleep is essential to prevent breakage and damage. Invest in a silk or satin pillowcase, or use a silk or satin bonnet or scarf to wrap your hair at night. These materials create less friction against your hair, reducing the chances of hair breakage and preserving the moisture in your hair. Avoid sleeping with cotton pillowcases or using cotton bonnets or scarves, as cotton can absorb moisture from your hair and cause friction, leading to hair damage.
- Practice Regular Scalp Massage: Massaging your scalp can improve blood circulation to the hair follicles, promoting hair growth, including the edges. Use your fingertips to gently massage your scalp in circular motions for a few minutes each day. You can also use natural oils such as castor oil, rosemary oil, or peppermint oil while massaging your scalp for added benefits. Scalp massage can help to stimulate the hair follicles and promote healthy hair growth.
- Avoid Over-Manipulation: Constantly touching, combing, or brushing your hair edges can cause friction and breakage. Avoid over-manipulating your edges and limit the use of combs or brushes in that area. Instead
