Reader Question: Different Rates Of Growth

Reader Question:

My hair tends to not grow in the back, on the right side of my head, my hair grows fast, on the left side, it grows slow…In saying all of that, my hair is contantly at 3 diferent lengths…might you have any reasons as to why this may be happening?

Our answer:

Hello,

It is common for people to have different growth patterns and areas of varying density on different areas of their scalp. It may simply be a matter of genetics.

You have to remember that each hair follicle is independent and has its own rate of growth which can change according to hormonal and aging influences independently.

However, to be sure that breakage is not the culprit for your lack of progress in your nape area, you can try protective styling that area of your hair constantly for a couple of months then measure the growth. Many ladies achieve this by braiding the hair in a single or two cornrows from one side to the other just in the nape area. If you wear your hair down then it will not affect your style as the cornrows will be covered but your nape hair will remain protected. You may find that your hair does in fact grow just the same in the back as it does elsewhere and it is possibly something in your hair regimen that is causing the breakage. Nape hair problems are especially common with relaxed hair.

Good luck!