All over Instagram, the latest hair trend is lace frontals. A lace frontal is a large lace closure that extends from ear to ear and it simulates a real hairline. In the videos and pictures very few of the people who need them are seniors or middle-aged women. In fact, almost all of the women are in there twenties and they’re balding.

On YouTube there are hundreds of videos titled “how to grow your edges” and they include all kinds of pills and potions that all supposedly grow your hair back. I think the question that we really should be asking is why are so many women of color suffering from thinning hair at such a young age. These 6 factors are the main contributors that can cause the hairline to start thinning.

Malnutrition

In order to grow strong healthy hair, it is vital that you have a well-balanced diet. Hair is made primarily of protein, so in order for it to grow you will need protein. In addition to protein, vitamin D and omega 3 also help in the hair growth process. Foods like salmon, sweet potatoes and almonds can encourage the processes, which cause healthy hair to grow. According to WebMD, approximately 90 percent of your hair is going through the growing process at any time. The “growing phase” last

For about 2 to 3 years. Next the hair enters the resting phase, which last for about 3 months until the hair is naturally shed. Having an unbalanced diet can cause undeveloped hairs to enter the resting period early and stop them from growing fully.

Tension

If you keep pulling on anything repeatedly it will cause damage. This rule especially applies to your hairline. Habitually wearing tight hairstyles like buns and ponytails can cause to much stress on your edges. Instead, try a messy bun or a loose ponytail if you are looking for a protective style.

Another important thing to remember when it comes to tension is that pain is a sign of damage. If any style causes you to feel a lot of pain, it is most likely damaging your hair and hair follicle. It is possible to wear weaves and braids that do not give you a headache. Explain to your stylist that you are concerned about the damage too much tension can cause to your hair.

Repetition

Switching up how you wear your hair doesn’t seem that significant, but it is vital to keeping your edges thriving. If you always have a left side part, you will start to notice that the hair on your left side is thinning, including your edges. This principle goes with how you part your hair for twist, braids, and even under wigs. In addition to partings, it is also advised that you change your style completely to give your hair a break. Every 4 weeks you should a different style. For example, one month you can have cornrows and the next month go with crochet braids. Just don’t wear the same one style for to long or your edges will suffer.

Over-processing

Just like the rest of your hair, over-processing your edges can be detrimental. Heat damage, chemical damage, and damage from excessive brushing can all contribute to thinning edges. To prevent your hairline from being over-processed decrease the amount the heat, the amount of chemicals, and the amount of brushing on your hair.

Try to use heat tools only once or twice a month. Relax, color, or perm your hair less often which will strengthen the weakest part of your hair, the line of demarcation. The line of demarcation is where the new growth meets with the part of your hair that is already chemically treated. Add “low manipulation” styles to your hair regimen and try use a comb and not a brush.

Moisture

Dry hair will break off, it’s an undeniable fact. Many different factors contribute to whether or not your hair will be moist. One of the most often overlooked aspects of having moist hair is being hydrated. If your entire body is dry, your hair will be also. If your not sure how much you should be drinking everyday, use this link.

Another factor that contributes to hair moisture is the type of products you are using. Gels and other products with lots of alcohols will help your edges break off and become thin. Limit those types of products and instead use moisturizers that have water as one of the first 5 ingredients. Environmental factors such as the sun, wind, dry air, chlorine, and salt water can remove the moisture from you hair.

As you can see, these are the best ways to make sure your edges are healthy:

· Keep them moist

· Don’t over-process them with heat, chemicals, or manipulation

· Make sure you don’t repeat the same style to often

· Don’t wear styles that pull at your edges to tightly

· Eat a balanced healthy diet and drink plenty of water

photo credit: bowler forehead via photopin (license)