Grow Long 101
The Basics of Growing Long, Healthy Hair
Whether you recently got a haircut that’s way too short, overdid it with bleach, or are dealing with hair loss from medical conditions—I see you. Losing hair or watching it become dry, brittle, and lifeless can feel heartbreaking. It’s not just about looks; it’s about confidence, self-expression, and feeling like yourself.
If you’re reading this, chances are you’re not satisfied with the state of your hair right now. Maybe it feels stuck at the same length, breaks off easily, or has lost its shine and bounce. The good news? You can bring your hair back to life and start growing the long, healthy strands you’ve been dreaming of.
I’ve been through the ups and downs of my own hair journey—breakage, dryness, trial-and-error with products—and I’ve learned a lot along the way. Through research, experimentation, and patience, I’ve put together a collection of tips, tricks, and lifestyle changes that actually make a difference.
Healthy hair growth isn’t about quick fixes or miracle products. It’s about creating the right environment for your hair to thrive. That means nurturing your scalp, treating your strands with care, fueling your body with the right nutrition, and managing stress so your body can focus on repair and growth.
Best Tips for Hair Growth
1. Prevent Breakage
Take care of what you got and prevent the rest! My first tip is taking care of the hair you got and preventing any further breakage. In order to reduce trims and get long, healthy hair, it is essential to prevent breakage. Using a silk or satin pillow case or hair cap is a great option, or sleeping in loose braids. Not only does it help prevent hair breakage, but silk or satin pillow cases can be beneficial to prevent acne, and wrinkles. Tight pony tails or braids can cause tension, thus causing breakage. Also, silk scrunchies are a good alternative to rubber bands and elastics.
silk bonnet-$12
silk pillow case-$12
2. Reduce Damage to Hair
Gentle Hair Care: Avoid harsh brushing, tight hairstyles, and excessive heat styling that weaken and break your hair. Take a break from the heat tools and try alternative no-heat hairstyles and methods. Minimizing heat and damage will give your hair time to get back to its natural state and actually get a chance to grow out naturally. Another tip is to use a wide-toothed comb on wet hair and a boar bristle brush on dry hair. Boar bristle brushes are great on dry hair because they are gentle detanglers and distribute your hairs natural oils.
Benefits of Boar Bristle Brushes
Distributes Natural Oils
The bristles help carry sebum (your scalp’s natural oil) from the roots down to the ends of your hair.
This gives your strands a natural shine and reduces the need for added products.
Improves Scalp Health
Brushing gently stimulates blood circulation in the scalp, which can support healthier hair growth.
It also helps exfoliate the scalp by removing dead skin cells and buildup.
Reduces Frizz & Adds Shine
Because natural oils are evenly spread through the hair, frizz is smoothed down.
Hair looks glossier and more polished without silicone-heavy serums.
Gentle Detangling
The natural bristles are softer than plastic ones, making them less damaging to fragile or fine hair.
They glide through strands without tugging as harshly, reducing breakage.
Strengthens Hair Over Time
With consistent use, hair becomes softer, more manageable, and less prone to split ends.
It can also reduce the need for frequent washing since oils are more evenly distributed.
Eco-Friendly & Long-Lasting
A well-made boar bristle brush can last years with proper care.
Since they rely on your scalp’s natural oils, you may use fewer hair products over time.
boar bristle brush/wide comb <— I started using this one a few years ago, and haven’t changed yet.
3. Avoid using hair products with harmful chemicals
Shampoos, conditions, or other hair products that have harsh chemicals can be extremely damaging to your hair. It can cause hair loss, more split ends, breakage, dull, and even damaged hair. Avoid synthetic chemicals like silicone, alcohol, sulfates, mineral oil, triclosan, sulphates, parabens, denatured alcohols, and basically anything that seems like it shouldn’t be on your hair! For best results, opt for an all-natural shampoo and conditioner.
Safe Shampoo Options for all hair types - $19.99
4. Scalp massages/oils
Hair oiling was like putting fertilizer on my scalp that made my hair grow fast and strong. The oils give moisture to your hair and scalp, and the massage will help circulate blood flow to boost hair growth. Hair oiling was a game changer for me! I started hair oiling two times a week. Sometimes I would sleep in it over night, but I recommend you start with once a week, leave on for an hour, and then shampoo and condition as normal. If you haven’t heard of hair oiling this is your sign to give it a try! I make my own hair oils now, but I will link a few good hair growth oils below. Check out the DIY Hair oil link (by clicking on DIY, it will lead you to that page) to learn how to make your own!
Benefits of Scalp Oil Massages
Boosts Circulation for Hair Growth
Massaging the scalp increases blood flow to the hair follicles.
Better circulation means more oxygen and nutrients delivered to support growth.
Nourishes Hair & Scalp
Oils like coconut, jojoba, argan, or castor oil provide fatty acids and vitamins that moisturize the scalp and strengthen strands.
Helps prevent dryness, flakiness, and breakage.
Strengthens Roots
A healthy, nourished scalp creates a stronger foundation for new hair growth.
Regular massages can reduce shedding and hair fall caused by weak roots.
Reduces Stress & Tension
Gentle scalp massage has a calming effect on the nervous system.
Less stress = healthier hormones, which indirectly support hair growth.
Balances Sebum Production
Massaging with the right oils can help regulate scalp oils.
Great for both dry scalps (adds moisture) and oily scalps (helps balance overproduction).
Adds Natural Shine & Softness
Oils coat the hair shaft, sealing in moisture.
Hair looks smoother, shinier, and more manageable over time.
Tips for Best Results:
Use lukewarm oil (never hot) for deeper absorption.
Massage with fingertips (not nails) in small circular motions.
Leave oil on for at least 30 minutes before washing, or overnight for a deeper treatment.
1–2 times per week is usually enough.
5. Balanced Diet
Eat a diet that will nourish your hair from the inside out. Your body is like a plant and your hair is an extension of that. It needs plenty of water and essential nutrients in order to grow. Refer to my other blog post called, “Hair Food” for more information on all the foods you should be eating to grow long, gorgeous hair.
6. Reduce Stress
Stress levels can severely affect hair growth. Chronic stress can put hair follicles into a resting phase and cause hair loss. Practice stress reducing activities like reading, yoga, and meditation. Having a stable sleep schedule, limited caffeine, and regular exercise are all great ways to reduce stress and contribute to better health. The heathier you are, the healthier your hair is.
Promoting healthy hair growth involves a combination of good hair care practices, a balanced diet, and overall well-being. While there are no "secrets" that guarantee rapid hair growth, the following tips can contribute to maintaining healthy hair and supporting natural growth:
