A building is as strong as its foundation. Hair is no different. If you desire long, strong and healthy hair, check your hair roots! They are embedded within the hair follicle beneath the skin’s surface. If they are weak, it can lead to brittle strands that can affect your hair growth. One way to strengthen hair roots is by avoiding harsh chemicals in your hair care products. Let us tell you more ways to make hair roots stronger.

What causes weak hair roots?

The hair root includes the hair bulb and the follicle sheath, which surrounds and protects the growing hair shaft, explains dermatologist Dr Rishabh Raj Sharma. The hair bulb contains the actively dividing cells responsible for hair growth, while the follicle sheath provides structural support and nourishment to the developing hair. Together, the hair root and follicle form the foundation for hair growth.

There are many causes of weak hair roots, including –

• Hormonal imbalance
• Nutritional deficiencies
• Excessive heat styling
• Harsh chemical treatments
• Stress.

What are the ways to make hair roots strong?

Weak hair roots can lead to hair loss, fewer hair follicles, less hair density, and the formation of coarse, brittle strands that undermine hair health and growth.

Here are a few ways to make hair roots stronger:

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1. Eat healthy

A well-balanced diet, especially high in protein, promotes hair growth in a variety of ways. Protein, the fundamental building block of hair, particularly keratin, supports the growth and regeneration of hair follicles, resulting in the formation of strong hair strands, says the expert. Vitamins, particularly Vitamin B7, also help in long-term hair development. Minerals such as iron and zinc are crucial to hair health. Iron promotes the efficient supply of oxygen to hair follicles, and its deficiency may lead to hair thinning and loss. Zinc, on the other hand, is required for tissue growth and repair.

2. Scalp massage

Scalp massage has numerous benefits for hair health, including promoting hair growth. A 2016 study published in the ePlasty journal found that a four-minute daily scalp massage may help in increasing hair thickness and strength over time. It primarily improves blood circulation to the hair follicles, which facilitates the supply of crucial nutrients and oxygen required for optimal hair development and scalp health. This increased circulation improves the function of the hair follicles, resulting in stronger, healthier hair strands.

3. Aloe vera

Many know that aloe vera is good for skin, but it also provides numerous benefits for hair health. Its natural soothing and moisturising characteristics make it a great agent for relieving scalp irritation and dryness. It creates an environment perfect for good hair development while also addressing issues like dandruff and itching, thanks to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Aloe vera gel is a natural conditioner that adds moisture to hair while improving structure and manageability. It can be used in its raw gel form or combined into hair care products.

4. Egg mask

Egg mask is a home remedy popular for enhancing hair health. Eggs serve as an abundant source of protein, crucial for making hair strong. They are also rich in biotin, folate, and vitamins A and D, which collectively nourish the scalp and hair follicles, says Dr Sharma. But some may have egg allergies, so be cautious while using them.

5. Green tea rinse

Green tea rinses can help with hair health. The antioxidant properties inherent in green tea facilitate the stimulation of hair follicles, so they promote healthy hair growth. Catechins found in green tea exhibit the potential to inhibit the activity of dihydrotestosterone, a hormone associated with hair loss, says the expert.

6. Hibiscus flower

Enriched with vitamins and amino acids, hibiscus flowers nourish the hair follicles, stimulating healthy growth. Also, hibiscus flowers have a conditioning agent that help in strengthening the hair shafts. Whether utilised in homemade concoctions or incorporated into commercial hair care formulations, hibiscus works as a natural ingredient in promoting healthy hair.

7. Coconut milk

Coconut milk is a rich reservoir of essential fats, proteins, and nutrients. They nourish both the scalp and hair follicles, fostering an environment conducive to healthy hair growth. Also, coconut milk’s innate moisturising properties facilitate hydration of the hair and scalp.

8. Proper hydration

Maintaining proper hydration is essential for fostering optimal hair growth. Adequate hydration fosters scalp health by preventing conditions such as dryness, flakiness, and itchiness, which can impede the conducive environment necessary for hair growth. Proper hydration facilitates the efficient transport of vital nutrients and oxygen to the scalp, essential for nourishing the hair follicles and stimulating healthy hair growth, says the expert.

Also, opt for looser hairstyles over tight ones to safeguard the well-being of your hair and scalp. If you ponytails or braids are too tight, they can impose undue tension on the hair follicles and scalp.