How to Grow Your Hair Faster (in 6 Tips)

Hair thrives on protein, iron, zinc, omega-3s and vitamin B12. Load up on fatty fish like salmon, avocado, eggs (yolk and all), leafy greens, nuts, seeds and beans to nourish your strands and promote growth.

While the evidence for biotin is still more anecdotal than scientific at this point, it can’t hurt to try the stuff so long as you stick to the recommended dose of 5,000 micrograms daily. Any more than that and you may notice an increased growth of hair in places (eek) other than your head.

We’re not saying forgo trims altogether (that causes the need for larger cuts down the road). We’re saying just scale back a couple of weeks from every eight to ten (or even twelve) weeks to allow time for your hair to grow in between. When you do go in for a trim, ask your stylist for a “dusting” so they know not to get too scissor happy on your precious ends.

Whenever you’re lathering up, give your scalp a quick massage using the pads of your fingertips to stimulate circulation and encourage blood flow to the area. (Blood flow equals fuel, which equals growth.) It’s worth the extra two minutes in the shower.

Dry, brittle hair means breakage—and breakage means hair that never reaches past your shoulders. Every other time you shampoo, swap out your regular conditioner for a deep treatment instead. Let it sit for at least five minutes before rinsing it out. 

Hey, we love our flat irons, too—but if long, healthy hair is your goal, scale back on the heat styling. On that note, only use tools with a ceramic coating on them so they don’t burn the hair and don’t forget to use a protective spray beforehand. Silky strands are more likely to last (and grow) longer.