by Gary Schwind

Created on: August 02, 2008   Last Updated: August 03, 2008

Donating hair has become a popular thing to do as more and more people discover that it doesn't take a research scientist or a biochemist to help fight cancer. I have joined the cause myself, letting my hair grow longer than it has ever been. If you want to do a good deed for someone by donating your hair, here are some things to consider.

It's a long-term commitment. On average, human hair grows approximately one-half inch every month, with some minor variation. Some folks will tell you that there are things to make your hair grow faster (such as taking pre-natal vitamins or increasing your protein intake), but for the most part they are just theorizing. Considering that some of the organizations that accept donated hair require 8 inches (Beautiful Lengths) from a ponytail, 10 inches (Locks of Love), or even 12 inches (Wigs for Kids), your good deed is going to take time, particularly if you are starting with short hair.

Don't make any rash decisions. Chances are, there will be days that you would like nothing more than to shed the locks you've grown before they are long enough to donate. This is particularly true:
-in those middle stages where it seems like you can't really do anything with your hair
-in the summer months when the temperature never seems to drop below 80 degrees
-if your hair is curly (like mine) and has a tendency to get tangled
-if you are not accustomed to having long hair.
Just remember that this is for a good cause. So, no matter how frustrated you get with maintaining your mane, remember that whoever will get your hair has been through a lot worse.

Be prepared for questions about your hair. Guys, this is especially true for us. The one question you can expect to hear a lot is "When are you going to do something about that hair?" How you answer that question is up to you. I prefer a response like, "I am doing something about my hair. I'm letting it grow." The repeated line of questioning does get annoying, but once you tell people why you are growing your hair, they are a lot more understanding and a lot less judgmental. Male or female, you can use questions about your hair as an opportunity to recruit someone else into the cause. After all, several ponytails are required to make a single wig.

Research organizations that receive donated hair. The three previously mentioned organizations are some of the more popular recipients of donated hair. Each one has different requirements for length. In each case, when you donate it, the hair must be clean, dry, and free of any styling products. You will have plenty of time, so go ahead and research various organizations that receive hair and choose the one you think is the best. One thing is certain. You cannot make a bad choice as to which organization gets your hair. No matter which organization you choose, you will be doing something really nice for someone.

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