There’s some precedent for this belief, too. Farmers have relied upon the moon’s phases for guidance on when to plant crops for optimal growth, dating as far back as the 1800s. (See the Farmer’s Almanac.) Lunar hair care simply applies the same planetary principles to us—specifically, to our hair. “The pull of the full moon and new moon creates a healthier, more productive garden. This is the same approach we take in lunar hair care,” says Stefani Padilla, a hairstylist and shaman. “Just as the moon pulls the tides in the ocean, it pulls upon all bodies of water: This causes moisture to rise on earth, which encourages growth.” It is this upward movement of water, cued by the moon, that is at the root of lunar hair care. After all, humans are made up mostly of water—and it makes up approximately 10 to 13% of our hair. “The new moons are a powerful moon phase to plant seeds of intention as it is a window in time to manifest—including longer hair and quicker growing,” says Padilla. As you are manifesting your best possible mane, Padilla reminds us that positive self-talk is the missing ingredient for success. “When we repeat the narrative of ‘my hair isn’t growing, my hair is falling out, my hair is dull, my hair is dry and brittle,’ we are creating that reality,” she continues. “Hair, just like our being, requires positive affirmations in order to transform into what we are trying to create.” First, make sure to keep your ends hydrated and limit damage. While this won’t stimulate growth at the root, it will mean less length taken off at your next trim. You must also practice regular scalp care by eliminating buildup and encouraging circulation. When you have too much buildup from oils, products, and debris, it can cause inflammation at the root. When this happens long term, chronic inflammation can even lead to hair loss. Make sure to clean the scalp regularly with a safe shampoo—or even a scalp exfoliator. Finally, consider your diet and supplements. Eating foods high in fatty acids and vitamins B6, B12, and folic acid may encourage hair growth and reduce hair loss. And supplements like iron, magnesium, zinc, collagen, and biotin may support hair health1.* “This moon phase is a great time for thickening and strengthening,” Padilla also says—so even if you’re not yet due for a trim, consider using this time for a strengthening or hydrating treatment. No better excuse for a night in during a full moon than a hair mask, no? “I encourage ritual as a means of taking time out from our busy schedules and the daily noise around us to create a dedicated space to care for both our hair and our well-being,” Padilla says. “This means allowing the space for calling in what we are desiring.”
