There are a ton of hair products out there that claim to fix your hair. What if you’re looking for good products to promote loc growth that actually work? Before we get started, you should know there is a lot the goes into hair growth outside product use. For example, hair growth has a largely genetic component to it. Moreover, routines rather than product can have a bigger effect on length retention as described here. However, if you have a solid routine, there are still some considerations you can make for hair growth products for locs.
Using Shampoo to Promote Loc Growth
Having a good clarifying shampoo is the foundation of loc care. While it won’t make your locs grow, it’s still important for growing long healthy locs. The reason why is twofold. If your locs have a lot of buildup you’re likely to cut your journey short. The second is that the inflammation to hair follicles can cause hair to thin and growth to slow. This inflammation can occur due to scratching at dandruff flakes/itchy scalp. Have a frequent enough wash routine with a good shampoo is important. Below are 3 brands with clarifying shampoos:
Scalp Massage
Often times, hair oils are touted for their ability to promote growth; however, the act of massaging your scalp and increasing blood flow is what is also thought to be doing the work. Scalp massages stimulate blood flow to the scalp, which may help activate hair growth stimulating hormones. In fact, FDA approved Minoxidil for hair loss works by increasing blood flow.
Best hair promoting oils for massage
There is not much out there in terms of products scientifically proven to increase hair growth. However, there has been some study, anecdotal evidence, and/or traditional precedence for trying oils. Pairing these oils with a scalp massage at minimum would be good for relaxation! Something important to note when using any of these oils, is to dilute them before applying.
*more robust studies are needed to determine a definitive impact. If using rosemary or peppermint is ineffective, it does not mean that minoxidil will be ineffective. Also, again – remember to dilute your essential oils with a carrier oil or product before applying to your scalp.
Fix Deficiencies That Could Stunt Hair Growth
Being deficient in some vitamins and minerals could stunt your hair growth or even cause hair loss. Thus, even if you take a general multivitamin that isn’t targeted to hair growth, and/or change your diet, you may also see benefits in hair growth. Something else to keep in mind is that it often takes awhile for new products to work or even notice. Ideally, you should use a product for 6 to months to notice hair growth. However, you should immediately cease using any product if you have a signs of an allergic reaction or other effects.
Some supplements that could help with locs growth:
- Garden of Life Organic Multi-Vitamin for Women: This product contains a blend of ingredients such as vitamins like A, biotin, C, D, and E as well as many others. It is not specifically targeted for hair growth, but if you are deficient, you may see some benefits.
- Advanced Trichology: DHT Blocker: This contain Saw Palmetto which has DHT blocking properties. Reducing DHT is the same mechanism in which FDA approved finasteride works.
- Horbäach: Hair Skin and Nails: This product contains a blend of ingredients such as vitamins like A, biotin, C, D, and E as well as others like collagen to help stimulate hair growth.
FDA Approved Products for Hair Growth
There are only two FDA products for hair growth in the US. These products require the use of a prescription. You can reach out to a medical provider to see if this is right for you. If you have tried these, don’t give up hope, there are additional medications that are often prescribed off label as described here. Thus, these are the most scientifically back products to promote loc growth.
Minoxidil
This FDA, prescription-only, approved drug is for both men and women. It is the active ingredient within Rogaine. The drug works by opening up blood vessels, and increasing blood flow. If you stop using it, it will stop working. Women should keep note that it is not safe to use if breastfeeding or pregnancy.
Finasteride
This FDA, prescription-only drug is FDA approved for men only. However, even for women it is still worth speaking further with your doctor even even if minoxidil did not work for you. Similar as minoxidil, if you stop using finasteride, it will stop working. It works by blocking a hormone called DHT (dihydrotestosterone), that can cause male pattern baldness.
—
Overall, what will help you grow your locs when it comes to products, depends on the cause of lack of hair growth. What have you found useful (or not) for growing your locs?