15 Expert Tips to Make Your Hair Grow Faster and Healthier

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Cascading curls, intricate braids, swinging ponytails—the options are endless when it comes to hairstyles for long hair! And while we love Ree's hair (and all the other short and medium-length hairstyles out there), sometimes we long for something well, longer.

That's easier said than done, right? After all, according to The Trichological Society, hair grows just 0.5 to 1.7 centimeters per month. And if you're not-so-patiently waiting for your hair to reach a certain length, that timeframe can feel like forever. But if your patience is running thin, it doesn't mean your hair has to! While there isn't an exact formula to magically grant Rapunzel-esque tresses, there are things you can do to keep your scalp and hair healthier, and in turn, help promote growth.

We've consulted two hair experts, Anabel Kingsley, trichologist and brand president of the Philip Kingsley Clinics, as well as Liana Zingarino, a renowned hairstylist in New York City to bring you expert-approved ways to make your hair grow faster. You'll also find trusted product recommendations and advice for those experiencing hair loss or thinning hair. Keep reading for everything you need to know, then be sure you know how often to wash your hair along with the best shampoos and conditioners to maintain your new hairdo!

Create a Great Haircare Routine

For your locks to give you length, you've got to show them a little love. That starts with your hair and scalp routine like how often you should wash your hair and which products you should be using. As Liana Zingarino explains, "The main thing is keeping the balance between everything. Not overwashing but also not underwashing." She continues, "Everyones hair is different and build up can have an impact on hair growth. Finding shampoo and conditioners that actually work for you (not just trendy, cheap, expensive or because they smell good) will help a lot!"

Her advice? "I always keep two to three in my shower and rotate as our hair can get used to one thing and you won't get the same great results you once did." As for washing, that depends on your specific hair type! Anabel Kingsley tells us, "If you have fine hair, shampoo daily to every other day... For those with coiled curls or coarse hair, try not to leave more than three or four days between shampoos."

Additionally, if you work out or sweat a lot, you should be sure to at least rinse and condition after. And don't stop with your hair―scalp health is just as important! Kinsley says, "Just like the skin on your face, cleansing your scalp frequently keeps it clear of dead skin cells, old oils, pollution, microbial overgrowth and sweat, which in turn supports healthy hair growth. Generally, your scalp care should mirror your skin care routine."

Get Frequent Haircuts

While it might seem counterintuitive to cut your hair when you're trying to grow it out, haircuts will actually improve the appearance and condition of your ends, making your hair look thicker. A tip from Kingsley: "Just be sure not to have more than half an inch cut as hair only grows half an inch a month." Seriously, just a trim.

As for when to get your hair cut, Zingarino says, "Trims really depend on your hairstyle and health of your hair. If your hair is pretty healthy, I say every 12 weeks (two to three times a year) is good. If you're someone who colors your hair a lot and/or is using a lot of heat, I would say more often."

Eat a Healthy, Balanced Diet

Yep, your hair is what you eat! Kingsley explains, "Hair growth is largely reliant on a healthy diet. As hair is non-essential, at least physically, it’s the last part of our body to receive nutrients and the first to be withheld from. Hair cells are also the second fastest dividing cells our bodies makes. This means even a small deficiency can increase our rate of hair shedding."

She suggests including protein, complex carbohydrates, foods rich in iron, vitamin C, and vitamin B12 in every meal. Zingarino notes, "Eating lots of vitamin rich foods and omega-3 fatty acids (think fish, avocado, olive oil) is huge in helping your hair. Nuts, fish, avocados, coconut milk/oil, olive oil, broccoli, spinach, eggs, vitamin C rich fruits and berries are all amazing for the hair and skin!" And make sure you don't skip any meals! Not eating enough can lead to unhealthy hair.

Take Supplements and Vitamins

If your diet is lacking in some areas, you can always give yourself (and your hair) a helping hand by taking supplements. As for what to try, Kingsley says, "The most common deficiencies that cause hair loss are iron, ferritin (stored iron), vitamin B12, vitamin D and zinc deficiency." She also notes, "They must be taken alongside a good diet to have maximum effect, though. As hair isn’t essential, if you are not eating well, any nutrients contained in a supplement will be used to keep vital cells and systems functioning." Her recommendation is Philip Kingsley's Density Healthy Hair Complex. Zingarino also has a few recommendations for hair supplements like Nutrafol and biotin.

Use Oils and Serums

There are so many great products out there that you'll definitely want to add to your routine. "I also LOVE oil! Even fine hair girls can find one that works with some trial and error. It's the most natural thing already in your hair and will help keep it strong," says Zingarino. Here are her go-to products: Snobgirls serum capsules for daily use and Mielle Rosemary Mint Scalp and Hair Oil, which should be applied once or twice a week then left on overnight or during the day with your hair up. For stronger treatment, she also recommends "topical and oral minoxidil and Propecia. Both are incredibly affective in growing back thinning, anemic, or unhealthy hair. You can ask your doctor about either."

Dr. Kingsley also shared her expertise in this area, "Overnight hydrating serums work best as they work with your skin’s natural circadian rhythm when moisture loss is at its highest." She likes the Philip Kingsley Overnight Scalp Barrier Serum to regulate oil production, hydrate, soothe and exfoliate. If you have hair shedding, you can also apply stimulating drops such as the Philip Kingsley Density Preserving Scalp Drops.

Use Hair and Scalp Masks

Hair and scalp masks can work magic on your hair! "Making sure to do a good hair scrub and mask on your hair two to three times a month is also great! This will help avoid build up and keep your hair hydrated," says Zingarino. Another great idea? A weekly pre-shampoo conditioning treatment. Kingsley shares, "If your hair is brittle, inelastic and breaking, it will snap off before it reaches the length you want it to. To increase your hair’s elasticity, apply a weekly pre-shampoo conditioning mask. I love our Elasticizer, originally formulated for Audrey Hepburn." Using an exfoliating scalp mask on wash day will also help to get rid of any dead skin cells that may have accumulated there.

Manage Your Stress

Take it from Zingarino: "Healthy hair also comes from the inside out. Managing stress in your life can definitely help the health and thickness of your hair." That being said, it's important to lessen the stressors in your life. We know that's easier said than done, but seriously, it will help! Kingsley explains that "The stress hormone, cortisol, as well as the inflammation stress causes, can increase hair shedding. In times of stress, our scalp can also become irritated, oily, itchy and flaky, which can also impact hair growth."

Massage Your Scalp

Hair growth starts at the scalp. Not only will scalp massages feel good, but they'll also stimulate blood flow and help to remove dead skin cells—both of which will encourage healthy hair growth. Zingarino says, "Men and women who don't wash or brush their hair enough aren't getting these benefits." You should aim for daily scalp massages, but if life gets in the way, just do them as often as you can. Kingsley says, "Whether you’re shampooing daily or once a week, spend a good 60 seconds gently but firmly massaging your scalp." It's also helpful to massage your scalp while applying oil or serums so that you get double the benefits! Zingarino will "Use a couple drops once or twice a week, massage and brush through."

Brush Gently

Speaking of brushing, you should always brush as gently as possible and use a brush that won't damage your hair. You wouldn't want to tear out the healthy locks you're growing! Kinsley says, "Look for ones with rounded plastic prongs and vented, cushioned bases. Boar bristle brushes can damage your hair’s outer cuticle." She also says, "A good test is to run your brush over the back of your hand – if it feels scratchy or leaves marks, it’s too rough for your hair."

Use a Microfiber Hair Towel

"Hair is at its most vulnerable when wet, so you need to be extra gentle with it," explains Kingsley. Insert: a microfiber towel! Once you've got your hands on one (trust us, your tresses will thank you!), Kinsley recommends you "Gently squeeze excess moisture out with a microfiber towel. Never rub your hair, or use a rough towel, as this can damage the hair cuticle." We've even got a recommendation for you! Zingarino tells us she loves Aquis or Crown Affair for hair towels.

Get a Silk Pillowcase

Along with a hair towel, go ahead and grab yourself a silk pillowcase too. Zingarino says, "I also tell my clients to invest in a great hair towel and silk pillowcase as this will help eliminate breakage and frizz, this is HUGE!" She continues with, "I see huge differences in my hair when I do and don't use either of these!" Talk about a change you can see overnight! Bonus: A silk pillowcase will benefit your skin just as much as it will your hair. Zingarino recommends Slip pillowcases, which happens to be the pillowcase that Alex Drummond uses!

Invest in a Shower Filter

Another product that can help your hair is a shower filter! Damage, dryness, less shine, and less strength can all be the result of the water in your shower. To combat that, Zingarino says, "I also would invest in a shower filter if you live somewhere with bad or hard water. Jolie makes an amazing filter I use myself that will help get rid of build up on the hair that can make it dry or dull." And fun fact: Alex uses the Jolie Filtered Shower Head as well! If they both recommend it, you know it has to be good!

Limit Heat

That means not overdoing it with the hot tools. Zingarino tells us, "Limiting heat on the hair as much as possible, especially if you color/highlight your hair. Overtime this wreaks havoc on your hair." Her suggestion is: "Try to do it when you really have somewhere to be and try to find chic ways to wear it up on 'dirty days.'" You can also grab a great heat protectant for those days when breaking out the flat iron is all but necessary.

Examine Your Medications

Here's one you might not think about! Zingarino says she'll "Ask my clients if they've had any changes in medications as this can deeply affect your hair. A huge one is obviously birth control. Whether you're starting or stopping, hormones can play a major role in hair health and growth."

See a Doctor

To keep your hair healthy, it's never a bad idea to ask for help. Kingsley explains, "Hair loss can be so distressing, and often confusing, and an expert will be able to find the underlying cause and explain what is going on. Hair loss, especially in women, can be complex and caused by multiple factors." According to her, "If your hair loss has been going on for longer than six months, is patchy, or if it is accompanied by scalp inflammation, bleeding, severe itching or pain, or if you are losing your eyebrow hair alongside your scalp hair, you should see a trichologist or dermatologist."

Philip Kingsley Density Healthy Hair Complex

Philip Kingsley Overnight Scalp Barrier Serum

Philip Kingsley Preserving Scalp Drops for Hair Loss

Philip Kingsley Elasticizer

SNOBGIRLS Strongforce Salon Vegan Hair Oil

Mielle Rosemary Mint Scalp & Hair Strengthening Oil

AQUIS Towel Hair-Drying Tool

Slip Silk Pillow Case

Jolie The Filtered Showerhead

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