You’ve reached the point where you’re starting to see the results of your new shower and haircare routine and finally getting the length you want. Congratulations! It takes a lot of time and diligence to get amazing hair, but it’s well worth it.

That said, this isn’t the time to sit back and relax just yet… because you’re not quite done. Your hair still needs you.

You see, long hair often requires more work than shorter hair because it’s more susceptible to breakage and split ends. Moisture is the name of the game for healthy hair from root to tip, and the longer it gets, the more it needs.

How to moisturize your hair

As you continue to support your hair while it grows, you’ll want to make sure to not hold back on the moisture. Fortunately, there are many super easy ways to keep your hair replenished while boosting your overall health.

Vitamins. Consider adding a haircare specific supplement to your routine that’s designed to support your hair goals.

Products. Take a close look at the products you’re currently using for your hair. Do they contain ingredients that dry out or weigh your hair down? Instead, try using I Polish, Protect & Tame to give your hair life without sacrificing moisture.

Feeding your hair. How about adding moisture through your diet? Believe it or not—your food choices can actually help your hair grow. We suggest this Roasted Tomato and Black Bean Soup with Avocado-Mango Salad for a fun hair-healthy approach to dinner.

Don’t have time to make a meal for your hair? Snack on Dolvett Quince’s Spinach Chips so you can both satisfy your cravings and add length to your hair. It’s a win-win!

Application. With certain products, it’s important to consider the technique you use when applying it to your hair as not all moisturizing products are the same. Your conditioner, for example, should be applied only to the middle and ends of your hair. That way it doesn’t interfere with the natural oil production at your roots.

Other tips to protect your hair

While moisture is vital to keeping hair strong and properly nourished, there are still a few other things you’ll want to make sure are a part of your daily routine. By utilizing these easy tips, you’ll ensure you don’t stop any of that awesome progress.

Sun protection. The sun doesn’t just give highlights, it also zaps your hair of moisture and ages it—just like it does to your skin. Find sunscreen designed for hair or make sure to keep a hat handy whenever you’ll be outside for extended periods of time.

Safe styling. Hot styling tools, such as your blow dryer, straightener or curling iron, can quickly dry out your hair, making it frizzy and prone to breakage. Try cutting down on the times you use these tools, but when you do—keep your blow dryer further from your hair while styling and use a moisturizer before applying any heat.

Trim your hair. It can feel counterproductive to cut your hair while trying to grow it out, but a trim can be as little as a quarter of an inch and is vital for keeping your hair healthy. Regular trimming helps eradicate split ends before they become worse. 

Use a mask. The Hair La Vie hair masque gives your hair moisture and protection without the harmful chemicals.

No more ponytails. Okay, so you don’t have to give up ponytails completely, but you do have to give up elastic bands—they out-rip your hair and cause breakage. Instead, try cloth ties or channel the 90s and opt for a scrunchie.

Satin sheets. Or at the very least, a satin pillowcase. Not only do satin sheets and pillowcases feel amazing, but they let your hair slide around without friction—keeping it shiny and smooth.

Brush—a lot. Brush your hair at least once-a-day and before you shower. Treat yourself to a nice soft-bristle or boar hair brush. These types of brushes make sure you’re not stripping your natural oils but are properly distributing them across your scalp and protecting your hair.

Final thoughts

You’ve come a long way and although your hair is starting to look effortlessly gorgeous, your work isn’t done just yet. Growing your hair is only half the battle—the second half is keeping it in excellent condition.

Remember to keep moisturizing at the top of your list, along with our other tips, and to avoid things that can dry or stress your hair out. Hopefully, they feel like little luxuries throughout your week, as you keep your long locks healthy and strong.