by Marlin Bressi

Created on: April 28, 2009

Many men decide to grow their hair long because they are under the impression that long hair doesn't require any maintenance. Unfortunately, this is not the case. When it comes to hair, long hair has very specific needs which shorter hair does not.

In order to understand these needs, we must understand the rate of hair growth. Typically, hair grows at a rate of around one half-inch per month. This means that the ends of the hair are older than hair near the scalp. This also means hair that is shoulder-length can be several months, if not years, older than the hair near the scalp. As a result, the ends of the hair can be damaged, dry, or split.

In order to keep long hair looking healthy, it is important to have the ends trimmed every six to eight weeks. You don't have to get much cut off in order to keep the hair in good shape, just the very ends. This step alone is the single most important tip for maintaining long healthy hair. Once the ends of the hair begin to split, the ends can look shaggy and scraggly, which makes the entire hair look awful.

The second most important tip is to use the right shampoo and conditioner. Since long hair is older than shorter hair, it is usually dry and will require a hydrating or moisturizing shampoo in order to maintain an optimal moisture balance. Hair is protected by the oils which are secreted by the scalp's sebaceous glands, and shampoos that are too harsh can strip away these protective oils, leaving hair looking dull and lifeless. Shampoos and conditioners for long hair should be mild to avoid stripping away these oils.

The final tip for men with long hair is to avoid excessive heat from blowdryers and the sun. Whenever possible, hair should be allowed to dry naturally. If a blowdryer is used, never blow the hair completely dry, as this will cause damage to the cuticle of the hair. Ultraviolet radiation from the sun is also damaging to the hair, so wear a hat whenever possible or protect hair with a leave-in conditioner formulated with sunscreen. Also avoid styling products that contain alcohol, since this will dry out the hair and leave your hair looking dull. A light styling cream or a leave-in conditioner are usually the only products a man with long hair will need.

By following these simple tips, your long hair will be stronger, healthier and shinier which means that you will be able to turn heads wherever you go!

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