Length Retention

**Raxxie** · 12-02-2009, 10:24 PM

I think I need some help. I went and looked at pictures from my one year nappiversary and I realized my hair looks to be about the same length now, almost a year later!

Last year I had no issues with length retention but this year.. oye

I've attributed it to the fact that my hair right now rests right at the tops of all my shirts/scarves/jackets.

So here's my question. What are some cute updos a (more or less) shoulder-length baby-locker can do to protect her ends?

I've seen the pinned threads for styles but there are MILLIONS of pages to skim through, not all the pix still work, and most I saw were for longer locks.

Anyone know of a resource for shorter styles? Or any other tips to help me get beyond this length and retain my new growth??????

Sorry for the essay ladies (and gentlemen) and thanks soooo much for your help!

**DeBe** · 12-02-2009, 10:41 PM

In the first year or two, most of the growth tends to be eaten up with shrinkage. Don't stress, most people say that in the second year, the visual length takes off. It certainly did with mine.

DeBe

**Mirah Nirvana** · 12-02-2009, 11:28 PM

^^^what she said, see my fotki.

**philly1206** · 12-03-2009, 05:18 AM

agreeing with the other ladies

i would think that retaining length is pretty much a given with dreads. i mean, you have the ultimate protective style

as for getting beyond the short stage...it takes patience, my dear. just concentrate on keeping it healthy...clean, conditioned and moisturized...and the length will come

**Raxxie** · 12-03-2009, 11:05 AM

so my ends aren't in danger if i let them hang?

**DANTAN** · 12-03-2009, 11:23 AM

I agree that your hair is growing, but because of shrinkage, you're unable to see it. Around year two, your hair will stretch out, almost overnight, and you'll see your full length.

As someone else said, locks are the ultimate protective style, so relax and enjoy.

**chachadiva** · 12-03-2009, 12:22 PM

Originally Posted by Raxxie

so my ends aren't in danger if i let them hang?

Nope. I've always let my locks hang. Just chill and let natural do its thing. Your hair is growing even if you can't see it.

**Alastri** · 12-03-2009, 01:30 PM

two years?! omg, i am going to have to learn some more patience.

**Hennessy** · 12-03-2009, 01:35 PM

Yes what every one else has said! My babies shrunk up to high heaven during the first year. Your hair is fine and there is no need to panic, just let it do its thing and before you know it you'll have hang time.