A top trichologist reveals how to build strong foundations & promote good hair health, so you can hold onto your lengths for longer
If you’re longing for longer hair, you’re not alone. According to Google Trends data, ‘how to make hair grow faster’ and ‘how to make your hair thicker’ receive thousands of searches each month. And while hair is the second fastest growing tissue in the body (second to bone marrow), the World Trichology Society reports that, on average, it grows just half an inch each month, or roughly six inches per year.
So, is it possible to give hair growth a boost? "The maximum rate to which your hair will grow is genetically determined," says Anabel Kingsley, brand president and consultant trichologist at Philip Kingsley. "For most people, this is approximately half an inch per month, and unfortunately there’s not a lot you can do to speed this up." Other factors that may affect hair growth include age, health and hormones.
However, there are several ways to boost hair health, making it less susceptible to breakage, as well as things to avoid that may slow healthy hair growth down.
Here, Anabel reveals her top expert tricks to look after your lengths and create the optimum conditions for hair to grow, along with a round-up of our best hair growth products to promote healthy hair. You’re welcome!
1. Use a weekly conditioning treatment
It may sound obvious, but if your hair’s breaking at the ends, it will not be able to grow past a certain length. "The key is using treatments and products that will help strengthen strands," says Anabel, who recommends using a weekly conditioning treatment. It’s also important to avoid excessive heat styling (and use a heat protector spray when you do) as this can lead to damage, dryness and, ultimately, breakage.
"Hair isn’t a living tissue and therefore it has no nerves – meaning we can’t feel it burn," points out Anabel. "As a rule of thumb, if your dryer’s too hot for the back of your hand, it’s too hot for your hair. So turn down the heat setting."
Also, never straighten wet or damp hair as "the moisture inside the hair shaft can boil causing the hair shaft to burst, forming small nodules that may eventually lead to breakage."
Our top picks:
Try: L’Oréal Professionnel Metal Detox Hair Mask
• Size: 250ml
• Can be used after colour, balayage or bleach treatments
• Leave on for 1-3 minutes
Specially designed to protect colour or balayage, this innovative, salon-trusted formula helps protect against copper deposits found in shower water. These deposits can damage or discolour hair, so this mask works by purifying the hair to enhance vibrancy – pretty clever if you ask us! Lightweight, easy to use and with a sweet citrus scent, it’s a must to keep your hair fresh from AM to PM.
Try: L’Oréal Paris Elvive Dream Lengths XXL Fibre Mask for Long, Damaged Hair
• Size: 400ml
• Suitable for all hair types
• With recyclable tub & lid
For some XXL volume, answer your hair dreams with this fibre mask. Scientifically powered by a 19% restoring fibres complex with pro-collagen, it gets to work on your strands, detangling, strengthening and so much more. Clap your hands together to awaken the restoring fibres inside, before applying onto wet hair. Rinse after three minutes to reveal softer, fuller locks.
Try: Pantene Pro-V Miracles Hair Mask Biotin & Bamboo
• Size: 300ml
• Suitable for all hair types
• With biotin & bamboo
Dry, damaged or colour treated hair is no match for this one pot wonder from Pantene. The formula, enriched with bamboo and Pro-V vitamin blends works to reconstruct the hair, making it stronger and less prone to breakage. Apply onto wet hair and leave for two minutes before rinsing off thoroughly.
Try: FUL Intense Moisture Hair Mask
• Size: 300ml
• Suitable for all hair types
• Vegan & cruelty-free*
• 94% naturally derived ingredients
• Free from silicone, sulphates, parabens & mineral oils
Achieve that fresh out-of-the-salon feeling from the comfort of our own home with this nourishing, thirst-quenching mask from FUL. Designed for optimum hydration, the pH balanced formula is infused with conditioning agents, including shea butter and coconut oil which work in tandem to smooth hair and banish frizz. Did we mention it also smells incredible too? It gets ticks all round!
Want to help shield hair from heat styling? Check out our guide to the best heat protection sprays and products.
2. Eat a healthy, balanced diet
The impact that nutrition has on hair growth should not be underestimated. "As hair is a non-essential tissue, and the second fastest growing tissue in the body, its nutritional requirements are high," says Anabel. "Even a small deficiency may cause hair loss."
According to the NHS, not eating enough calories during the day may lead to hair loss and a lack of certain vitamins or minerals (particularly iron and protein) can contribute to it as well. If you’re concerned, book in with your GP who can arrange a blood test to help highlight any deficiencies.
Anabel’s top tip for feeding hair from within? "Never skip breakfast. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day for your hair as it’s when energy to form hair cells is at its lowest," she says. "A 'hair-healthy' breakfast includes a portion of protein and a complex carbohydrate, such as eggs and wholewheat toast, smoked salmon on a bagel, or quinoa porridge with nuts and berries."
3. Massage your scalp & keep it clean
A healthy scalp is vital for healthy hair growth and, according to Anabel, a healthy scalp is a clean scalp. "Try to shampoo regularly (daily or every other day) to keep your scalp clean and flake-free," advises Anabel. Find what works best for your lifestyle, needs and hair type. The ultimate goal of shampooing is to cleanse your scalp of sebum, sweat, styling products and general dust and pollution. But if you have a dry scalp and don’t tend to use that many styling products, you may find that washing your hair less frequently works for you. Team with a scalp massage to turn your hair wash into the ultimate self-care ritual.
While it’s easy to forget about the skin on your scalp, Anabel reminds us that "the scalp is simply an extension of the skin on your forehead, and it should be cared for with the same attention that’s devoted to facial skin." Think cleanser, an exfoliator and treatments. "Once a week, try using an exfoliating scalp mask to gently lift away dead skin cells," recommends Anabel.
Our top picks:
Try: Ouai Scalp & Body Scrub
• Size: 250g
• Vegan & cruelty-free*
Take your scalp and skin to rehab with this deep-cleansing scrub from Ouai. Massage the sugar crystals in circular motions onto a wet scalp and watch as it gently foams. Rinse to reveal a cleansed and softened scalp that complements your swish-worthy styles. This hybrid hero can also be used on the body too. So, you’re getting even more bang for your buck.
Try: Pureology Hydrate Moisturising Shampoo for Medium to Thick Hair
• Size: 266ml
• Suitable for all hair types
• Vegan*
• With jojoba, green tea & sage
Looking for a hair growth shampoo? Indulge your tresses in a little self-care treat thanks to this luxurious shampoo from Pureology. The hydrating formula coats each strand with an aromatherapy blend of lavender, bergamot and patchouli. From the first use, your hair will achieve added moisture, softness and colour protection. Plus, it’ll help you wave goodbye to split ends and brittleness.
Try: Umberto Giannini Scalp Serum
• Size: 50ml
• Free from sulfates, parabens & silicones
Want to scratch that itch when it comes to finding scalp solutions? Look no further. This soothing serum is packed full of nourishing super fruit enzymes to help restore balance to the scalp by calming the skin. You no longer need to deal with the burden of pesky flakes and can instead say ‘hello’ to a healthy scalp. This one-size-fits all formula is also suitable for colour-treated hair.
Try: Tangle Teezer Scalp Exfoliator & Massager - Onyx Black
• Suitable for all hair types
• With two types of teeth
• Not suitable for detangling
Want to know the secret to a happy and healthy scalp? Designed with two types of teeth, this multi-tasking marvel helps to detox the scalp and clear product build-up, all while giving you a little head massage TLC, too. Its flexible long teeth work to exfoliate, while the shorter thick teeth stimulate pressure points to give your scalp some love. And with its winged design, it never slips – even in water!
Try: FUL Scalp Massager Shampoo Brush
• Suitable for all hair types
• Made from silicone & biodegradable straw
• Easy-to-grip handle
• For best results, use every time you shampoo or use a scalp treatment
If you’re looking for *the* tool for cleansing your hair and exfoliating your scalp with ease, then reach for this scalp massager from FUL. Perfect for using with your favourite shampoo, this handy little massager delivers a deep clean, while helping you to maintain a healthy scalp and gorgeous hair. And its soft and malleable silicone tips make it great for a gentle and relaxing massage – an added bonus!
4. Brush hair from ends to roots
Contrary to what you may think, it’s important to brush hair from ends to roots – but gently, rather than tugging at strands like you’ve got a personal grudge against them. "Dragging a brush through the length of your hair and tugging on tangles can cause strands to snap," warns Anabel, "and over time, rough brushing can lead to breakage and split ends."
The best way to brush to work towards a fast growth of hair? Begin by detangling with a wide-tooth comb. "Gently run your comb through your hair, starting at the ends and gradually working your way up to the roots," says Anabel.
Do this before you step in the shower. "Hair can swell by 20% to 30% when it’s wet, making wet hair a little like a taut rubber band," explains Anabel, "roughly brushing hair in this state can easily cause it to snap." So, be gentle on wet hair, using a comb and detangling spray to help prevent any tugging.
Our top picks:
Try: Boots Basics Paddle Hair Brush
• Made from at least 25% recycled materials
• Packaging is 100% recyclable
No haircare routine is complete without that one trusty tool – a soft, bristled brush. And this pretty baby blue paddle brush certainly fits the bill. With a purse-friendly price tag, it’s the convenient companion you need to keep your strands looking tip-top. Use it to effortlessly tease and detangle unruly locks – it’s also great for blow drying your hair to get that smooth, sleek finish.
Try: Matrix Food For Soft Hair Oil Serum
• Size: 50ml
• Leave-in treatment
• For all hair types
• Protects from heat damage up to 230°C
Looking for a solution to quench those thirsty locks? Give them a gulp of avocado goodness with this little green bottle of dreams. Powered by hyaluronic acid and avocado oil, the lightweight, leave-in treatment provides long-lasting moisture, while smoothing and softening the hair for added shine – it even provides heat protection too. Is there anything it can’t do?
5. Get your hair trimmed regularly
While this may seem a little contradictory when you’re trying to grow your hair, having regular trims can actually help your hair grow faster. “This is because trimming off the dead ends frequently will allow your hair to stay healthy and keep growing, as well as keeping your style neat and tidy,” explains Liz.
So how often should you get your hair cut? The general rule of thumb is to aim for every six weeks, but as long as you’re allowing 12 weeks or three months between trims then this is fine too. It all depends on your hair type, condition and personal preferences, but you can always ask your hairdresser for advice next time you go in.
6. Try rosemary oil & treatments
Now, if you’ve been on social media recently, you would’ve seen rosemary oil trending, with people claiming that it stimulates hair growth. But how much truth is there to this mystery ingredient?
“Some studies suggest that rosemary oil could help with preventing hair fall and may assist with hair growth,” says Liz. Our advice? Give it a try and see what benefits your hair reaps from it!
Our top picks
Try: Nature Spell Rosemary Oil For Hair
• Size: 150ml
• Suitable for all hair types
• Can be used on dry or damp hair
• Can also be used to reduce frizz & enhance shine
Looking for a natural way to grow your locks? Elevate your haircare routine with the unique blend of rosemary, almond and sunflower oils in this Nature Spell hair oil. The expertly pre-diluted oil helps promote hair growth, fortifying it from the roots to make it stronger and less prone to breakage. Just massage a small amount into your scalp and leave on for around 30 minutes before washing off with your usual shampoo.
Try: Hair Syrup Pre-Wash Hair Oil, Grows-Mary
• Size: 100ml
• Use at least 2-3 times a week
If you’re experiencing thinning, slow growth and dryness and you’re looking for a new holy grail on your hair growth journey, then let it be this one from Hair Syrup. Silky, glowing and smooth locks are just a few scalp massages away. Simply section off dry, unwashed hair and apply this rosemary and thyme-infused syrup from root to tips, leaving it on for a few hours – or overnight. Let it work its magic before washing off with a double cleanse shampoo.
7. Invest in a silk pillowcase & accessories
As well as looking pretty, silk pillowcases actually come with plenty of benefits. Not only do they have a nice cool feel (great for hot sleepers – we feel you!), but they’re also kind to those who have frizzy hair, thanks to their softness and ability to minimise moisture build-up.
But it’s not just silk pillowcases. Liz explains “Using hair accessories that are gentle on hair, such as silk pillowcases and silk hair ties, can prevent hair breakage, in turn helping your hair grow.” If you’re someone who is prone to breakage then investing in a little silk may just save your strands. “Hair breakage is one of the main causes of slow growing hair, so if you have brittle hair, investing in items like a silk pillowcase can be a great idea for limiting breakage,” says Liz.
Our top picks
Try: Kitsch Satin Pillowcase Blush
• Dimensions: 66cm x 51cm
• Contains one pillowcase
• Available in blush
Your new night-time necessity? Make it this silk pillowcase. The soft satin fabric is kind to hair while you sleep, allowing you to wake up frizz-free and ready to take on the day. And that’s just the hair benefits! It works wonders for your skin too, so that’s an added bonus!
Try: SILKE London - SILKE Hair Ties – Coco – Champagne
• Pack of 6
• Strong elastic inside & 100% pure mulberry silk
Make any hairstyle instantly cuter by swapping out your usual hair ties for these silk ones. Available in black and a range of brighter colours, these hair ties are beautifully crafted to glide against hair, eliminating any ripping, tugging, creasing and kinking – they're all the hold, without the damage.
8. Limit heat styling
A tale as old as time – heat causes damage. We know this all in theory, and while we make a conscious effort to eliminate heat styling, sometimes you just need to use the straighteners (hello frizz, kinks and flicks!). But one thing you can do, is go into your haircare routine armed with a good heat protectant.
Liz explains how “Heat styling (especially frequently and without a heat protectant) can lead to damage, which can lead to brittle hair that breaks easily and grows slowly.”
Liz’s advice? “To help speed up hair growth and limit breakage, we recommend heatless styling. Using overnight stylers such as the Boots Heatless Hair Curling Ribbon or stylers without extreme heat like the Dyson Airwrap™ will help you achieve gorgeous styles without the damage, so you can have long healthy locks!”
Our top picks
Try: Drybar Hot Toddy Heat Protectant Mist
• Size: 130g
• Notes of coconut, amber & vanilla
• Vegan*
• Leaping bunny certified
A cult-favourite brand that are masters in the art of blow-dries, Drybar certainly know their stuff. This heat protectant mist is one must-have in their ever-growing list of professional-quality products. Enriched with a powerful blend of fire tulip extract and marula oil, one spritz graces your hair with a protective coat, defending against heat up to 232°C.
Try: Dyson Airwrap™ Multi-Styler and Dryer Complete Long with Presentation Case Nickel and Copper
• Incudes 6 attachments
• Multiple heat & speed settings
• Intelligent heat control
• Engineered for multiple hair types, lengths & styles
• 2-year guarantee
• Best used on hair that’s longer than chest-length
The only multi-styler to dry, curl, shape and hide flyaways with the Coanda effect, the iconic Dyson Airwrap™ is a must-have tool for effortless styling without the heat damage. Thanks to its re-engineered attachments, the Airwrap™ harnesses enhanced Coanda airflow to create styles with air, from wet to dry, with no extreme heat – it’s that easy!
Try: Boots Heatless Hair Curling Ribbon
• Suitable for all ages & hair types
• No heat damage
If you’re trying to steer away from heat altogether but still want to look like you’ve put maximum effort into your hair, then heatless curls will be your new best friend. This silk heatless curl headband is flattened at the top and soft on the sides, making it super comfortable to sleep in. Just follow a few simple steps, head to bed and wake up the next morning with beautiful, bouncy curls!
The takeaway
"Although there’s no 'one-size-fits-all' in haircare, a balanced diet and a good haircare regime can encourage healthy hair growth," says Anabel. With the right products, regular cleansing and a less damaging hair brushing technique, we can help keep our new-found lengths looking stronger, healthier and happier for longer. Apply several drops of oil serum to wet or dry hair and don’t rinse. It really is that easy!
