Bristol Barber sheds light on men's hair growth secrets
Bristol Master Barber Franco is regularly asked about men’s hair growth and how it is possible to enhance and encourage longer hair for men.
Typically, our hair grows at around 1cm (0.5 inch) each month, though this varies because of factors like age, genetics and health.
Each ‘hair’ is made up of two main structures – the follicle and the shaft. The follicle is a small pocket beneath the skin where hair growth begins, while the shaft is the visible part of the hair.
A hair stays on our scalp for up to seven years, going through four different phases before it says its final goodbye.
Talking of phrases let’s break them down, says Franco:
What is your hair growth cycle?
Phase One: Growth
Known by trichologists as the Anagen phase, it’s the longest phase, lasting anywhere between 3-7 years. During this time, your hair is active and grows.
Phase Two: Transition
Lasting about 10 days, the Catagen phase sees the hair follicle shrinking and cutting from the blood supply. At any given time about 3% of all your hair is in this phase.
Phase Three: Resting
For approximately three months, the hair rests while new hair begins to grow beneath it. This is known as the Telogen phase.
Phase Four: Shedding
This is when the old hair sheds from the follicle, making room for the new growth and the cycle starts again.
What affects hair growth and length?
There are a few things that can interrupt or reduce hair growth, says Franco:
#1. Genetics
As you’ve probably guessed, your genes play a big role in determining your hair growth rate and thickness.
#2. Age
Unfortunately, as we get older our hair growth tends to slow down as the hair follicles gradually weaken or even stop producing new hair completely.
#3. Hormonal changes
Hormonal fluctuations (it’s not just the girls) can also adversely affect hair growth, explains Franco.
#4. Harsh treatments
Watch out for straightening, perms, bleach and weaves which can leave our hair more fragile and prone to breakage.
#5. Diet and nutrition
A balanced diet that’s packed with vitamins and minerals is key for healthy hair growth. If you’re on a restrictive diet, you might notice slow growth or even hair loss a few months later.
#6. Stress
High-stress levels can lead to hair loss or stunted growth.
#7. Medications
Certain health conditions and prescribed medications can also impact hair growth.
We offer detailed, in-depth men’s hair consultations in Bristol and can prescribe the best possible haircare regime for you.
To find out why a thorough men’s hair consultation is so important for you, please visit here.
Franco‘s top tips for longer hair:
Get professional help
Regular trims are your friend. They help prevent split ends, which can make your hair appear shorter and less healthy.
Check out this blog post on the benefits of Maintenance Haircuts for men in Bristol.
Use scalp massage and treatments
Give your scalp some love with regular massages which boost blood flow to your scalp and keep those follicles healthy.
And don’t forget about repairing treatments like Moroccan Oil to reduce breakages or our add-on treatment services which are tailored to the needs of your hair.
To buy Moroccan Oil today from our online shop, visit here.
Go gently
Be gentle with your hair. A soft bristle brush is your best bet.
Need some expert advice?
If you’d like some expert advice on your hair and which are the right men’s hair products for you, just ask our Bristol barbers. We love to help.
Call us on 0117 944 6265 or get in touch here.
Franco also recommends this article on haircare regimes for long hair.
