We all know that one person that claims they grew inches of hair in a matter of weeks thanks to some DIY concoction passed down through their family. Well, that person is (probably) lying. Everyone’s hair, for the most part, grows at the same rate every month. According to research, hair usually grows about half an inch per month, so if you do the math, that’s about six inches per year. Here’s the bad news, first: “Nothing over the counter is going to make your hair start growing from your scalp faster,” says celebrity hairstylist Clayton Hawkins. So while you can’t grow Rapunzel-length hair overnight—you’re going to need extensions to work that kind of magic—there are steps you can take to create the most ideal conditions for hair growth. Long, healthy hair requires a healthy scalp, a healthy body, and smart hair habits. Thankfully, we’ve got all the expert tips that hit all three points, below.
How do you make your hair grow faster?
1. Use a Detangling Brush
Nothing will literally make you want to pull your hair out (no pun intended) like trying to detangle a rat’s nest. But patience is key here, especially when you’ve just hopped out of the shower. “Most breakage occurs while your hair is wet, so it’s crucial not to tug or yank at your soaking tresses,” says Hawkins. The brush you use is important, too. Hawkins recommends a detangling brush to work out those knots. P.S. Start brushing your hair from the ends and work your way up to prevent potential breakage.
2. Sleep on a Satin Pillowcase
It sounds a bit extra, but swapping out your cotton pillowcase for a silk or satin one is actually worth it if you’re trying to grow out your hair. “A satin pillowcase has been proven to prevent breakage and keep your hair growing strong,” says Hawkins. There’s less friction when you rest your head on a satin surface which means fewer knots and less breakage.
3. Get a Good Night's Sleep
And while we’re on the topic of sleep, beauty sleep isn’t just an expression. Hawkins suggests aiming for at least eight hours every night for stronger hair, skin, and nails. It’s easier said than done, especially when there are Love is Blind episodes to binge and Vanderpump Rules Reddit threads to sift through, but if you’re as vain as I am, you’ll make it a priority.
4. Drink Plenty of Water
It’s 3 pm… how many glasses of water have you had today? Drinking plenty of water throughout the day is super important, says celebrity hairstylist and co-founder of Flawless by Gabrielle Union Larry Sims. “It helps prevent a brittle hair texture and fosters a healthier scalp which means you’ll be less likely to deal with dryness, itchiness, and dandruff.”
5. Heat Protectant is a Must
Every hairstylist will tell you this, but you’ll want to keep the heat styling to a minimum or ditch your hot tools completely. Blow dryers and flat irons can damage hair, make it dry and brittle, and cause breakage. Both Hawkins and celebrity stylist Glenn Ellis recommend using a good heat protectant if you do choose to continue heat styling. Oh, and never set flat irons to a temperature over 375 degrees Fahrenheit, cautions Ellis.
6. Take Care of Your Scalp
FYI: By the time your hair comes out of your scalp, it’s dead. Once it comes out of those follicles, there’s not much you can do to make it stronger or fuller which is why you need to take care of the skin underneath your hair. Developing a scalp care routine that includes a mix of oils, serums, and masks can help create an ideal foundation for hair growth. Also, set some time aside each week to give yourself a scalp massage. Not only does it feel good, but it’ll help increase circulation and blood flow to your follicles, aiding in growth. You can either go in dry or massage in some scalp-stimulating oils like peppermint or tea tree oil.
7. Move Your Body
Here’s a rule of thumb: If it’s good for your overall health, it’ll probably help your hair grow. Sims suggests a regular exercise routine to “keep a healthy blood flow to your scalp and follicles.” According to Sims, “the stimulated blood flow at the scalp will enrich your hair follicles with everything they need for added strength and health,” so keep scheduling those hot girl walks.
8. Get regular trims
It sounds counterintuitive but haircuts are necessary for long and healthy hair. Regardless of what you’ve heard, split ends don’t get better on their own—you need to cut them off. “I tell all my clients to come in for regular trims about every three to four months to cut off split ends and maintain healthy hair,” says Ellis.
9. Eat Whole Foods
Are you living off of peanut butter-filled pretzels and Cheez-Its? It’s time to stop eating like a twelve-year-old boy and start eating your veggies. If your diet is lacking in key nutrients—think iron, vitamin B12, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids—your body will hit pause on any potential hair growth and instead focus its attention on directing energy and nutrients to vital organs. Looking for ideas on what you should add to your grocery list? Sims recommends strawberries, avocados, sweet potatoes, broccoli, spinach, and chia seeds, among other foods.
10. Avoid Damaging Hair Treatments
You’re going to have to put any dreams of being platinum blonde on hold while growing out your hair. Bleach, hair dye, and other chemical treatments open up your hair cuticles which makes your hair dry, brittle, and more likely to break off.
11. Regularly Condition Your Hair
Conditioner helps protect your hair from its enemies (heat, coloring treatments, environmental aggressors, etc.) by injecting proteins and fats into hair strands while also locking in moisture. Think of it as a first responder when it comes to protecting against any external threats to your hair goals.
