Hair Growth vs. Length Retention: What Are You Really After?

We all want long locks to rival Lady Godiva. But is there anything we can do to really speed up the growth of our mane—or is it all a myth? And have you ever considered that what you might actually want is length retention? Not quite sure what that is, or how it differs from hair growth? Don’t worry, we’ve uncovered all that and then some. Read below to find out more.

Hair Growth: What You Need to Know

First, let’s cover the basics. In total, there are three stages of hair growth and shedding: anagen, catagen, and telogen. Anagen (a.k.a. the growth stage) can range anywhere from two-six years. Next is a 10-day transitional stage called catagen, and then finally, telogen, which is also known as the resting phase. Have you ever pulled out a hair from the root and noticed a white ‘bulb’ at the base? Well, that is a sign it’s reached the telogen period.

So, how fast does hair really grow? Generally, half an inch a month, so roughly six inches (or 15 cm) a year. Unfortunately, we can’t be more specific, because factors like race and genetics also play a part and cause variation in hair growth. But, you’ll be glad to hear that it’s completely normal to lose anywhere from 50 to 100 hairs a day because each individual strand goes through these stages at different times, which is why we don’t notice it.

The real question here though—and what you’re probably all dying to know—is can you make hair grow faster? Well, we hate to burst your bubble, but there’s no such thing as being able to increase your hair’s growth rate. Plus, we were born with all the follicles we’ll ever have, so there’s no chance of changing its density, either. In fact, as we advance, hair follicles actually stop working as efficiently, which why our hair can start to feel thinner as we age.

Hair growth vs. length retention: do you know the difference?

The truth is, a lot of people frequently misuse the term hair growth when what they really mean is length retention. Which brings us to our next point: what is length retention? Well, it’s as simple as maintaining or retaining the length of our locks through care. So while the speed of hair growth can’t be altered, our care routine can—and a better one will certainly help retain that length for longer.

But how does this explain why your hair isn’t getting any longer?

Our guess is that it’s simply because your hair is probably growing at the same rate as it is breaking (we know, shocking, right?), which means any changes in length are minimal or virtually undetectable. Sadly, there isn’t one sole cause—but a range of reasons—as to why your hair has seemingly reached a terminal length.

What is the solution?

Don’t worry, there are many measures you can take to help lessen hair breakage. We know it sounds counterintuitive, but going for regular trims will benefit your hair in the long run. Firstly, this will remove split ends and single-strand knots, which, if left unattended, can travel further up the hair shaft and develop into more extreme feather- and tree-split ends, that then catch on and tangle other hairs.

Excessive manipulation from styling—and friction from clothing, pillowcases, and towels—are other factors to consider. So think about cutting back on hairstyles that involve using tension and heat. Anyone with natural hair might want to consider protective styles that are low-maintenance and help keep ends properly and consistently moisturized. You may also find that a hair mask, like Suave Moisture Mask with Almond + Shea Butter, can really help smooth and hydrate your hair.

Ed’s tip: sleeping on silk pillowcases and gently squeezing excess water out of your hair with a towel or old T-shirt, rather than vigorously rubbing it, can also help minimize damage to your hair. 

A dry and damaged mane is also more prone to breakage. Consider topping up the effects of your regular conditioner with intensive treatments to help add moisture. One of the reasons industry professionals are always going on about biotin and keratin in relation to hair is because hair is actually made up of protein. So, using a keratin-rich system like the TRESemmé Keratin Infusing Shampoo and TRESemmé Keratin Infusing Conditioner could really help infuse protein back into damaged strands.

Ultimately, there is no quick fix or miracle solution for hair growth, but with patience and a well-considered and consistent hair care routine, you’ll be on the right track to keeping the length you have luscious.