Hair expert reveals two kitchen ingredients that “promote growth”

According to experts, two common cooking ingredients are some of the lesser known secrets to promoting hair growth.

She shared her must-try tips for growing longer, thicker hair without the use of expensive salon treatments.

Nicole Petty is a hair expert at Milk + Blush, a hair extension company whose celebrity clients include Karlie Kloss, Kim Kardashian, and her sisters Kendall and Kylie Jenner.

She shared her advice for caring for your hair with the US Sun.

Home remedies

Petty said rosemary has “high antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.”

This makes it an excellent natural ingredient for nurturing, cleansing and conditioning hair.

“The ursolic acid in rosemary helps increase blood circulation to the scalp, delivering more oxygen and nutrients to your hair follicles,” she says.

“If you want to try making your own solution, put some rosemary sprigs and olive oil in a jar, leave it for a few hours and then gently massage it into your scalp.

“For best results, dilute it with a carrier oil, such as jojoba oil or shampoo, to minimize discomfort and irritation on sensitive skin, and add a sprig of lavender for extra fragrance.”

Ginger is “rich in antioxidants” and has antiseptic properties, she said.

She recommended using it to eliminate dandruff and scalp irritation, as well as to improve blood circulation around the scalp to stimulate hair follicles.

She said the vitamins, minerals and fatty acids in ginger not only “strengthen” hair, but also offer long-term protection.

“You can make your own ginger hair mask by grating some ginger, squeezing out the juice, mixing it with a bit of coconut oil and applying it to your scalp,” she says.

“Massage with your fingertips for three minutes and leave on for a further 20 minutes before rinsing and washing your hair.”

Petty said regular exercise can also help hair growth because it increases your heart rate, which improves blood flow and circulation.

“As a result, your scalp receives more nutrients and oxygen, which is essential for hair growth,” she says.

“Furthermore, with increased levels of cortisol in the body, serotonin, which is released in the body during exercise, becomes the best medicine to combat stress.

“An easy run or a relaxing yoga session are both great ways to get the blood flowing.”

Problematic Products

Petty said “overuse of certain products,” home dye kits and excessive washing can damage hair.

“Harsh chemicals in dye and bleach kits can kill melanin and destroy hair follicles,” she says.

“Plus, over-washing can make your hair brittle and cause it to break while combing.

“If the natural oils are constantly washed away, it can also cause damage to hair follicles.”

Hair care ingredients she recommends avoiding include sodium lauryl sulfate, parabens, propylene glycol, imidazolidinyl urea, and sodium chloride.

The omega-3 found in fish oil provides essential protein and nutrients to hair follicles.

Nicole Petty

“Instead, look for products with essential oils like rosemary and tea tree, which promote hair growth,” she said.

“To avoid any hair colour reactions, it is best to consult with a professional colouring service and get a patch test.”

Food for thought

Petty said it's important to eat a nutritious diet, as the foods you eat affect hair growth, strength and volume.

“To optimize your hair's health and prevent hair loss, eat plenty of foods rich in protein and iron, such as lean meat, spinach and pumpkin seeds,” she said.

“Hair follicles are primarily made up of a protein called keratin, so when enough protein is consumed, the hair produces more keratin, allowing the hair to repair and grow.

“Additionally, consuming biotin-rich foods such as organ meats, egg yolks, nuts, bananas, cauliflower and mushrooms can help improve the body's keratin infrastructure.”

She said regular intake of omega-3 and vitamins A, C and E was equally important.

“The omega-3 content in fish oil provides essential protein and nutrients to hair follicles, prevents inflammation in the hair follicles and increases blood circulation to the scalp,” she said.

“Vitamin A is found in foods such as sweet potatoes, carrots, milk, eggs and yogurt.

“It's necessary for hair cell growth and to keep hair moisturized.

“Vitamin C, found in strawberries, bell peppers, guavas and citrus fruits, is needed to produce collagen, prevent premature ageing of hair and aid in iron absorption.

“Vitamin E is found in sunflower seeds, almonds, spinach and avocados.

“It's an antioxidant that prevents oxidative stress and promotes hair growth.

“To prevent hair loss, it's important not only to maintain a healthy, balanced diet, but also to drink enough water, as lack of hydration stops cell regeneration.”

“Aim for eight cups a day to maintain healthy hair.”

Petty said juicing each day from the fruits and vegetables mentioned above is an easy way to get the nutrients needed for healthy hair.

“Supplying essential nutrients to your body can help promote strong hair regrowth and prevent future hair loss and weakening,” she said.