Conduct an internet search for “hair growth tips” and you’ll be inundated with products, tricks, and “secrets” all promising miraculous results, and much sooner than you otherwise might expect. But the truth is, the secret to sustained hair growth is really no secret at all. In fact, for many it’s as simple as what you put on your hair and in your body – that is, the right hair care products and the right nutrition.

And yet simple doesn’t necessarily mean easy. Your genetic make-up, for example, is a determining factor in how early or late you may experience hair thinning or loss. Yet taking the best of care of your hair can help slow down the hair loss process and ensure that remaining hair is as healthy as can be for as long as possible.

Here are 8 practical and proven hair growth dos and don’ts.

Do feed your hair from the inside out. A healthy, well-balanced diet filled with the vitamins and nutrients essential for hair health promotes hair follicles to enter the anagen phase, the growing phase of hair’s life cycle. During this phase, hair follicles push hair out until they are cut or reach the end of their lifespan and fall out. Add in regular exercise and quality sleep for best results.

Do supplement your diet if needed. If you’re not getting the vitamins and nutrients from food, consult your primary care doctor about supplements, especially those that support hair growth. These include vitamins A, C, D, Omega-3s, iron, calcium, and magnesium, just to name a few.

Don’t over-wash hair. Healthy hair comes from a healthy scalp, so don’t skimp on shampoo and conditioner. The condition of your scalp will determine the frequency at which you should wash. A dry scalp should be washed two times a week to preserve natural oils and prevent further irritation. An oily or sweaty scalp will require more frequent washing. For most people, washing their hair three times a week is adequate. Use lukewarm water when washing as hot water can damage hair.

Do use products formulated for your hair type and condition. If you have a dry scalp, a hydrating and moisturizing shampoo is best while an oily scalp will benefit from a clarifying shampoo. Those with fine hair will benefit from a gentle shampoo that won’t weigh hair down. Use these guidelines when selecting a conditioner, mask, or other product as well.

Don’t skip regular trims. Trimming your hair regularly helps maintain its health by removing split ends – so, resist the temptation to go longer between cuts. Trimming your hair just a quarter of an inch every six to eight weeks is adequate.

Don’t over-style. Over-styling, especially with heat products, can lead to breakage and frizz. Let your hair air dry as much as possible. If you must blow dry, only do so after it’s almost dry and use the lowest heat setting possible. Try drying the roots for added lift.

Don’t fall for hair myths. Repeated often enough, a myth can eventually can become someone’s truth. For example, the more you brush your hair, the healthier it will be. Excess brushing creates friction and can lead to breakage. Instead, brush or comb once or twice a day, starting at the ends and moving toward the roots.

Not so difficult, right? But even with all the proper care in the world, people can and do experience sufficient hair loss for them to consider a transplant. If you’re even thinking about it, contact DiStefano Hair Restoration Center today to schedule a free consultation. We’ll take the mystery out of hair transplant surgery and show you just how beneficial the result can be.