Long Hairstyles

More than likely you are reading this web page right now because you have stared in the mirror at your hair and you want it to be longer than it currently is.  Long hair has been the goal of women since the beginning of time.  The good news is there are many ways to get long hair and many ways to wear it.  First, what is the best approach to growing long hair?  Beauticians would probably agree to a number of key points to growing long, flowing hair.

• Healthy hair:  In order to have hair growth, having healthy hair is key.  The health of your hair is related to a lot of things, particularly nutrition and diet.  Our hair is supposed to grow approximately a quarter to half an inch each month.  You can make sure that happens by making sure your diet includes protein and iron.  Foods with omega-3 fatty acids like salmon, dark leafy green vegetables, beans which are rich in protein, eggs (another protein source), whole grains and foods with calcium like yogurt and skim milk are excellent food choices when you are trying to grow long, luxurious hair.
• Trim hair:  Long damaged hair is not long luxurious hair.  So, in order to add the "luxurious" to your "long", you have to keep your hair trimmed.  If you do it yourself, make sure you invest in a good pair of scissors made specifically for hair cutting and used specifically for hair cutting.  You should also probably trim your hair half an inch about once every few months.  However, if your hair is damaged, it will take longer to grow until all of the damaged areas have been removed.
• Avoid chemicals:  This is a tough one if you have been coloring your hair so long you don't even remember what your original color is.  But, it is a good idea to go easy on the coloring and other chemical treatments that only damage your hair in the long run.  If you absolutely must color your hair, opt for a semi-permanent color.  Also, make sure you use a really good shampoo and conditioner that is made for hair that has been color treated.  In addition, a deep conditioner should be used on a regular basis.
• Avoid heat:  Another tough suggestion because who has time to let their hair air dry every day?  But, blow dryers, curling irons and flat irons are the enemy when it comes to your hair.  The amount of heat these appliances put out leave a lot of damaged hair in their wake.  If you can, it is best to use some kind of heat protecting product on your hair before using these appliances. 
  
• Use a good brush:  Believe it or not, all brushes are not made equally.  The best brush to use on your hair is a 100% boar bristle brush.  It is good for moving the natural oils in your hair throughout your mane.
• Go to a good salon:  Sometimes you have to let the professionals do what they do best.  Make sure you find a good stylist who understands long hair and your desire to have long hair. 
  

Hair Extensions and Weaves

Of course if you are impatient and do not have the time to wait several months or years for your hair to grow to a certain length, there are alternatives like hair extensions and hair weaves.  They are used often by Hollywood actresses and stylists and they are being used more and more by everyday people who want the look without the fuss.  Generally hair extensions come in two types, either human hair or synthetic hair.  A lot of people prefer the human hair extensions because they are real, they look real and they can be styled like your own hair.  They are also more expensive, but the price does vary depending on the quality of the hair.

Hair weaves are similar to extensions but the applications are different.  Bonded hair weaves involve gluing the hair to the scalp.  This process is short-term.  The style may only last about a month.  Braided hair weaves involve braiding your real hair close the scalp, generally in cornrows.  The hair weave is then sown into the braids.  This typically is good for about two months.  There are a variety of hair weave techniques that utilize hair adhesives.  For example, strand bond weaving involves attaching weaved hair to small sections of hair using an adhesive application.  Another process is called fusion hair weave in which hair weave is attached to the natural hair using wax as a bonding agent.  These are longer lasting applications that can be worn in some cases for up to six months.

Wigs

If hair weaves and extensions are not for you, perhaps you may want to try a long hair wig.  Wigs long been used for a variety of reasons by men and women since ancient Egyptian times.  But, today they are just part of every day hair styling and many times they are so realistic looking, it is hard to tell if someone is wearing a wig or their own hair.  Similar to hair weaves and extensions, wigs are made from either human hair or synthetic hair.  The advantage is they can be cut and styled however the wearer likes.  And someone who likes a lot of variety can change from short to long, brown to blonde whenever they want.  Customized wigs are made to fit based on head measurements.  Other specialized wigs include lace wigs which improve the real appearance of the hair piece by following the wearers actual hairline.  Lace wigs can also be worn for longer times.

Long Hairstyles

In terms of hairstyles, longer hair can at times be more versatile and other times be more difficult.  Curls and layers keep long hair from looking flat and lifeless.  Soft waves are an attractive look for long hair and up dos always add an air of sophistication and style.  Braiding long hair is another option. And, if you are simply heading to the grocery store or out for a jog, a long ponytail swinging in the wind is a classic look.  Meanwhile, choosing your hairstyle may be tied to the shape of your face, the texture of your hair and even the color of your hair.  Wearing bangs, for example, may work work better for someone with a pear-shaped or oval face.