The Best Ways for Busy Mums to Fix Damaged Hair and Promote Growth, Backed by Science

Between managing a busy household, work responsibilities, and family life, finding time for self-care can feel nearly impossible for mums. Amid all the chaos, it’s easy for hair health to fall by the wayside. But the stress of daily life, combined with things like frequent styling and environmental exposure, can lead to damaged hair that feels dry, brittle, and hard to manage.

The good news? With a few scientifically backed strategies, it’s possible to restore your hair’s health and even encourage new growth. Here’s a guide tailored for mums who want to give their hair some extra TLC, even with a packed schedule. And if you stick around until the end, I have a special treat just for you – a simple, homemade remedy to help repair and nourish your hair!

1. Trim Regularly to Prevent Further Damage

With the daily hustle, it’s tempting to let haircuts slide, but regular trims are essential for managing split ends, which can spread up the hair shaft and cause even more damage. A study in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology confirms that trims are effective for reducing split ends and improving overall hair health.

Quick Tip: If you can’t make it to the salon every few weeks, aim for a trim every 6-8 weeks to prevent splits from worsening. Even a quick trim at home can help reduce breakage and make hair easier to manage.

2. Deep Condition with Protein Treatments

Between heat styling, coloring, and exposure to the elements, hair can lose essential proteins, leaving it weak and prone to breakage. Protein treatments, like keratin, help fill in damaged areas and reinforce your hair. According to research in the International Journal of Trichology, keratin treatments can temporarily rebuild hair structure and improve its strength.

Quick Tip: Set aside 10-15 minutes every week for a deep-conditioning treatment with hydrolyzed protein or keratin. Many masks work in just minutes, making them easy to fit into your schedule – even while helping the kids with homework or folding laundry!

3. Essential Oils to Stimulate Hair Growth

Essential oils like rosemary and peppermint can promote growth by increasing blood flow to the scalp. In fact, Skinmed reports that rosemary oil has growth-promoting effects similar to minoxidil, a common hair growth treatment. Peppermint oil is also effective for its circulation-boosting properties.

Here are four powerful oils that are known to promote hair growth:

Quick Tip: Add a few drops of rosemary or peppermint oil to a carrier oil (like coconut or olive oil) and massage it into your scalp once or twice a week. The massage only takes a few minutes and is a quick way to give yourself a mini-spa moment while boosting hair health.

4. Cut Back on Heat Styling and Chemical Treatments

Heat styling and chemical treatments, like dyeing, cause significant damage, especially when used frequently. Studies published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science show that high temperatures disrupt the hair’s structure, leading to dryness and breakage. Reducing the frequency of these treatments gives your hair time to recover and grow stronger.

Quick Tip: Limit heat styling to once a week, and always use a heat protectant spray. On busy days, opt for quick, heat-free styles like braids or buns, which also protect your hair and save you time.

5. Prioritize a Balanced Diet Full of Hair-Boosting Nutrients

Nutrition is essential for hair health, and a diet lacking in key nutrients can lead to dull, slow-growing hair. Studies in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology have shown that nutrients like biotin, vitamin E, and iron are vital for hair growth and strength. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish and nuts, are also beneficial for a healthy scalp.

Quick Tip: Look for easy ways to add these nutrients into your meals, like snacking on almonds, adding spinach to a smoothie, or incorporating more fish. Even on a hectic day, a nutrient-packed snack can be a quick boost for your hair and overall energy.

6. Protect Hair from Environmental Damage

Sun exposure, pollution, and humidity can damage hair, leading to dryness and dullness. A study in the Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology found that UV rays specifically break down hair proteins, making it brittle and less shiny.

Quick Tip: Protect your hair by wearing a hat when outside or using a leave-in conditioner with UV protection. If you’re running errands or spending time at the park, a hat not only shields your hair but can add a touch of style to your look, even on a busy day.

7. Scalp Massage to Stimulate Hair Follicles

A daily scalp massage can improve blood flow to hair follicles, promoting growth. In a study published in Eplasty, participants who massaged their scalps daily saw thicker hair over time. The stimulation increases circulation, delivering more nutrients to hair follicles for stronger growth.

Quick Tip: Take 5-10 minutes before bed to massage your scalp in circular motions. It’s quick and can even help you unwind after a busy day. For extra relaxation, add a drop of your favorite essential oil, like lavender.

8. Switch to Sulfate-Free, pH-Balanced Shampoos

Sulfates, found in many shampoos, can strip hair of its natural oils, leaving it dry and vulnerable. According to research in the Indian Journal of Dermatology, sulfate-free and pH-balanced shampoos are gentler and help maintain the hair’s moisture barrier, essential for both scalp and hair health.

Quick Tip: Look for sulfate-free shampoos with a pH-balanced formula to cleanse without stripping moisture. This small switch can make a significant difference in keeping your hair soft and manageable.

In Conclusion

For mums managing the chaos of daily life, hair care might feel like just another task. But by incorporating these science-backed tips into your routine, you can improve the health of your hair while nurturing yourself. Remember, hair health is as much about self-care as it is about science. Embrace these changes gradually, and celebrate each small victory as you restore your hair to its natural beauty.