Let’s get real for a sec—hair growth routines can feel overwhelming. Between social feeds full of “miracle products” and influencers swearing by their secret tips, it’s hard to know what actually works.
Here’s something you might relate to: Maybe you’re dreaming of longer, fuller strands, but every time you check your progress, your hair still looks exactly the same.
I’ve been there, scrolling through hair inspo while eyeing my own stubborn split ends.
But the truth? Growing your hair healthier (and faster) isn’t all guesswork or just good genes. Backed by science, real user stories, and a few home remedies that actually make sense, there are practical things you can do to grow out your hair.
If you stick with a routine and snap progress pics, you’ll start seeing changes—sometimes in just a few weeks. Below, I’ve rounded up the best, most-loved hair growth routine tips you need on your radar.
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1. Massage Your Scalp Daily
Take a few minutes every day to gently massage your scalp using a scalp massager (or your fingertips). This simple habit can help boost blood flow to your hair follicles, which often means better growth.
Massage increases oxygen and nutrients to the roots. Plus, it feels relaxing after a long day. Set a timer on your phone, and let it become your new before-bed treat.
2. Maintain a Balanced Diet with Plenty of Protein
Hair is made mostly of protein (hellooo, keratin). Not getting enough can make hair weak or slow to grow. Focus on eating lean meats, eggs, beans, and dairy.
If you’re plant-based, tofu, lentils, chickpeas, and nuts are all fab options. Try to get protein in every meal for stronger strands from the inside out.
3. Use Rosemary Oil on Your Scalp
Rosemary oil has a cult following for a reason. Loads of people swear that it can kickstart new growth and even help with thinning spots.
You can buy rosemary oil specifically for use on your scalp (already diluted), or mix a few drops of rosemary essential oil in a carrier oil like jojoba or coconut, and massage into your scalp a couple times a week.
Keep it in for at least 20 minutes, then wash it out carefully and follow with your normal hair routine.
4. Minimize Heat Styling and Use Heat Protectant Spray
Heat is the enemy of healthy hair, especially if you’re aiming for length. Cut back on straighteners, curling irons, and blow-dryers whenever you can.
If you do reach for hot tools, always, always use a heat protection spray. This helps save your ends from frying while keeping your hair looking shinier.
5. Use a Satin or Silk Pillowcase to Reduce Breakage
Cotton pillowcases can snag and pull at your hair, leading to more breakage by morning. Satin or silk pillowcases let your hair glide over the pillow instead.
This tiny switch protects new growth and also feels extra luxe—your skin will love it too!
6. Avoid Harsh Brushing When Hair Is Wet
Wet hair stretches and snaps more easily than dry hair. If you need to detangle post-shower, use a wide-tooth comb or a detangling brush.
Start with the tips and slowly work up. Never yank from the roots—the breakage just isn’t worth it.
7. Apply Deep Conditioning Hair Masks Weekly
Your hair’s thirstier than you think, especially after sun, salt, or styling. A good deep conditioner or hair mask sinks in moisture and helps repair damage.
Aim to use one once a week, focusing on your mid-lengths and ends for that extra shot of softness.
8. Minimize Use of Harsh Chemicals (Dye, Bleach)
If you’re looking to grow your hair, lay off frequent coloring or bleaching. Chemicals weaken the hair shaft, making it prone to splitting and stalling growth.
If you really want to dye, go for ammonia-free options or ask your stylist for gentler solutions.
9. Eat Healthy Fats (Avocado, Nuts, Olive Oil)
Healthy hair needs healthy fats. Avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil all bring shine and strength to your hair by nourishing your scalp and hair shaft.
Sprinkle some chia seeds on your breakfast, or mash avocado on toast for a beauty boost.
10. Use Hair Serums or Oils on Your Ends
Ends are the oldest and driest part of your hair. Light serums or hair oils help seal split ends and prevent more breakage.
Add a tiny drop to your palms, smooth over your tips after styling, and let your hair drink it in.
11. Avoid Brushing from the Roots; Start from the Ends
Breakage starts when you drag a brush downward from the roots. Instead, hold sections of your hair and gently work out tangles at the ends, then slowly move upward.
This smoothing method actually keeps more hair on your head.
12. Apply Onion Juice or Aloe Vera (Many Redditors Swear by These)
TikTok and Reddit users go wild over onion juice and aloe vera for growth.
Onion juice can stimulate the scalp and boost circulation, while aloe vera soothes scalp irritation and supports healthier follicles.
Apply directly to your scalp before washing, and see if your hair loves it.
13. Don’t Towel-Dry Roughly; Gently Squeeze Out Excess Water
Rubbing hair with a towel after a shower can wreck the cuticle. Instead, press or gently squeeze out water with a microfiber towel or even an old tee. Less friction means fewer split ends and less frizz.
14. Braid Hair Loosely at Night
Loose braids prevent tangling and breakage while you sleep. Tight braids pull on your roots, leading to stress and even hair loss over time.
Keep your plaits soft and gentle, and wake up to tangle-free hair that’s ready to go.
15. Track Your Progress with Photos to See Real Results
It can be hard to notice growth day by day. Take regular photos (from the same angle and lighting, if possible).
In a couple of months, you’ll be shocked at the difference! Plus, those progress pics give you motivation to keep up your routine.
16. Use Bonding Treatments to Strengthen Hair
Bonding treatments help rebuild broken bonds in your hair caused by heat, coloring, or chemical treatments.
These products, such as those with ingredients like bis-aminopropyl diglycol dimaleate (found in Olaplex), target hair at a molecular level.
Apply a bonding treatment once a week or as directed. This can make your hair feel stronger, smoother, and less prone to snapping, letting you grow it longer with fewer setbacks.
17. Keep Your Routine Consistent
This is less of a “product” tip and more about patience. Routines matter more than one-off treatments. Stick with these habits, and don’t give up if you don’t see instant results—the magic happens slowly but surely.
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