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Plus, how long it usually takes to grow out your hair
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Ready to grow out your hair and rock long, luscious locks, but aren’t sure where to start? Don’t worry, we’re here to help! We consulted with expert hairstylists and licensed cosmetologists for the best tips on how to grow out your hair and maintain long locks so your hair stays healthy, flowing, and stylish. We’ll also go over ways to stimulate hair growth , explain how long it takes to grow out your hair , and provide some DIY hair treatments to make your mane shine. Keep on reading to learn more!

Top Tips for Growing Out Your Hair

  1. Wash your hair with a gentle shampoo every 2-3 days.
  2. Apply conditioner onto the ends of your hair after each wash.
  3. Brush your hair 1-2 times each day.
  4. Get regular hair trims every few months.
  5. Avoid using heat on your hair or wearing tight hairstyles.
  6. Eat healthy and stay hydrated.
Section 1 of 4:

How to Grow Out and Maintain Long Hair

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  1. 1
    Get your hair trimmed before you start to grow out your hair. Getting a fresh cut removes split ends and damage to keep your hair healthy and looking great as it grows out. Just tell your barber or stylist that you plan on growing your hair long. They’ll work with you to find a style that suits you and grows out well so you stay looking good.
    • Plus, your barber or stylist can give you tips on growing out your hair and provide some suggestions on a long style that suits you.

    Meet the wikiHow Experts

    Patrick Evan is a professional hair stylist and owner of Patrick Evan Salon in San Francisco, CA.

    Arthur Sebastian is a professional hair stylist and owner of Arthur Sebastian Hair Salon in San Francisco, CA.

    Janet Miranda is a professional hair stylist with over 15 years of experience in the hair and makeup world.

    Jenny Tran is a professional hair stylist and founder of JT Hair Lab in Dallas, TX.

    Bianca Cox is a professional hair stylist, licensed cosmetologist, and owner of The Hair Throne.

  2. Instead of washing your hair every day, professional hair stylist Patrick Evan recommends shampooing it every other day or every third day. Washing your hair every day strips away the natural and protective oils on your scalp, which can dry out your hair, make it prone to breakage, and slow its growth. [1]
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  3. To keep your hair looking clean and healthy, professional hair stylist Arthur Sebastian suggests using a sulfate-free and paraben-free shampoo . These shampoos are less harsh on your hair, which helps the strands stay hydrated and strong, reducing breakage. [3] In general, avoid shampoos that contain silicone, as they can block out moisture and nutrients, which may hinder hair growth.
    • To wash your hair , gently massage the shampoo into your scalp, as this is where oils and dirt build up. Avoid lathering the ends of your hair, as this can dry out the strands and cause breakage. [4]
    • There are dozens of shampoos on the market, so professional hair stylist Janet Miranda recommends choosing one based on your hair type. [5] For instance, if you have fine hair, use a volumizing shampoo. If you have curly hair, opt for a moisturizing shampoo.
  4. Wring out your hair while still in the shower and apply a dime-sized amount of conditioner to the ends of your hair. Let it sit for 1 to 2 minutes, then rinse it out of your hair. Conditioner is an important step in your new haircare routine , as it hydrates your hair to help prevent breakage and damage. Plus, it makes your hair feel smooth and soft. [6]
  5. Hot showers may be the most comfortable, but the heat from the water can damage your hair. Heat can lift up the cuticle, making it more brittle and susceptible to breakage, and dry out your scalp. Instead, wash and rinse your hair with the coldest water you can stand to keep your hair healthy. [8]
  6. 6
    Gently pat your hair dry with a microfiber towel or old t-shirt. According to Evan, aggressively rubbing your hair dry can lead to damage and breakage, which can slow down your hair growth. Instead, he suggests gently squeezing and scrunching your hair dry . Opt for a microfiber towel or old t-shirt, as the fabric is softer and causes less snagging, breakage, and frizz. [9]
  7. To easily remove knots and prevent potential breakage, Evan suggests starting at the ends of your hair and then working your way up—either a brush or a comb is fine. [10] Aim to do this regularly, like every morning and evening, to keep your hair healthy, tangle-free, and looking smooth. As a plus, brushing your hair distributes oils to keep your hair hydrated, is good for your scalp health, and might increase blood flow, which can increase growth. [11]
  8. Even though you’re growing out your hair, it’s still important to get your hair cut semi-regularly to remove split ends and damage. According to licensed cosmetologist Courtney Foster, forgoing regular trims means the split ends “will travel up the hair shaft and will cause breakage.” This causes you to have to remove more hair, which can slow down your hair growth. [15]
    • How often should you trim your hair? While hair stylists agree that getting your hair trimmed is beneficial, it’s a hotly debated topic on how often to do it. Some hair stylists, like Miranda, recommend getting your hair trimmed every 4 to 6 weeks. [16] However, others say every 6 months or so is fine. Ultimately, this comes down to your comfort level, and when you start to notice split ends forming.
    • Note : It’s a myth that trimming your hair helps your hair grow longer. However, regularly trimming your hair does remove split ends and damage, which keeps your hair healthy and prevents breakage.
  9. Keep heat away from your hair as much as possible, which includes using a hair dryer, curling iron, or straightener. Evan agrees that heat not only makes your hair appear frizzy and dull, but it can also cause damage and brittleness that leads to breakage and slow growth. [17] Similarly, chemical-based hair treatments, like hair dyes and relaxers, can harm your hair and hinder its growth. So, aim to dry and style your hair without heat, and keep it as natural as possible.
    • That’s not to say you can’t ever use heat on your hair. Just make sure to protect it as much as possible. For instance, Evan suggests: [18]
      • Applying a heat protectant through your strands before you blow dry it or use a flat iron or curler.
      • Using a low heat setting. Most hair dryers have a “Cool” button, while Evan says 280-325°F (137-162°C) is best for curling or straightening.
  10. 10
    Use light-weight styling products. Light-weight styling products tend to work best on long hair, as they don’t weigh it down as much or make your hair look overly styled. Whether you prefer pomades, mousses, waxes, gels, or creams, simply choose a product that works best for your hair type. For instance, use a pomade to slick back straight hair. Or, run curl defining cream through your hair to make your curls pop.
  11. 11
    Avoid wearing tight hairstyles. Pulling your hair back into tight and high styles can create tension along your scalp, which can lead to hair breakage or even hair loss (called traction alopecia). Instead of braiding your hair into tight cornrows or brushing it back into a tight manbun, relax your grip and gently style your hair to create a looser look. [19]
  12. To keep your hair healthy and prevent breakage as you sleep, professional hair stylist Madeleine Johnson recommends sleeping on a satin pillowcase . She says the smooth material protects your hair from getting snagged or tugged against the fabric. [22] Niang also suggests loosely braiding or putting your hair into a ponytail to reduce breakage and tangles when you wake up. [23]
    • For extra protection , Niang recommends wrapping your hair in a silk scarf or bonnet .
  13. 13
    Accessorize and style your hair during the awkward growth stage. As you grow your hair out, it’s normal for it to hit an awkward stage, and you might feel tempted to cut it all off. To get you through this stage, look up trendy ways to style your hair at its current length. Or, wear a hat or other hair accessory (bandana, headband) on days when your hair just won’t cooperate.
    • To help avoid the awkward growth stage, professional hair stylist Bianca Cox suggests getting your hair cut around the ears as it grows. She says once the top starts to grow over the ears, you can grow it out into a bob or a mullet. [24]
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Section 2 of 4:

Ways to Boost Hair Growth

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  1. Evan says that “healthy hair growth starts internally.” So, it’s important to eat a balanced diet , exercise regularly , and reduce stress to grow long, luscious locks . [25] Not getting enough nutrients, movement, and rest can contribute to hair loss. [26]
    • Some great foods to help boost hair growth include lean protein (chicken, fish, beans, tofu), eggs, leafy greens (kale, spinach), and fruit (berries, oranges).
  2. Drinking water doesn’t just keep you hydrated, but it also nourishes your hair, explains Evan. [27] Not getting enough water can dry out your scalp and slow your hair growth. So, aim to drink at least 8 to 10 cups (1.8-2.3 L) of water each day to supply your body with adequate moisture. [28]
  3. Apply a deep conditioner about once per week. Deep conditioners are ultra-hydrating products that help restore moisture and reverse damage, which can help your hair grow faster, says Sebastian. [29] After you wash your hair in the shower, apply a dollop of deep conditioner to the ends of your hair (instead of your regular conditioner). Let it sit for about 10 to 30 minutes, and then rinse it out.
    • Choose a deep conditioner for your hair type. Most products are labeled with the hair types they work best on, like textured, curly, or fine hair.
    • Different deep conditioners may have different instructions, so always follow your product’s application directions.
  4. 4
    Give your scalp a daily massage. Scalp massages might help to promote hair growth and thicker strands by stimulating blood flow to the scalp. After you wash your hair, use the pads of your fingers to gently knead your scalp in small, circular motions. Aim to massage your scalp for about 5 minutes. [30]
  5. According to Evan, supplements containing biotin , folic acid , and vitamin E can help with hair growth. [31] These vitamins are all important for keeping your hair healthy, which can promote its growth. It’s also a good idea to ensure you’re getting all your other necessary vitamins by taking a multivitamin . [32]
    • Always talk to your doctor about any supplements you want to take before you start taking them, especially if you take other medications. [33]
    Jen Atkin, Celebrity Hairstylist

    Supplements can help nourish your hair. "Alongside hydration in the shower with the shampoo, conditioner or mask that you use, on top of that, getting fish oil vitamins or biotin from a vitamin store is also really key in helping to keep your hair healthy."

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Section 3 of 4:

How long does it take to grow long hair?

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  1. It can take 2 to 3 years to grow your hair to about shoulder-length. According to professional hair stylist Yan Kandkhorov, hair grows about ½ inch (1.3 cm) per month. On average, this means you can expect your hair to grow 6 inches (15 cm) in one year. [34] So, if you’re growing your hair out from a very short cut, it may take 2 to 3 years for it to grow past your shoulders (along with getting regular trims).
Section 4 of 4:

Using DIY Treatments on Your Hair

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  1. Give yourself a hot oil massage . Growing healthy hair starts at the roots, which means that taking care of your scalp can help stimulate growth. Massaging your hair with warm oil, which can condition and strengthen hair, can help promote hair growth. Heat up a bit of olive or coconut oil until warm to the touch. Then, master cosmetologist Shun Pittman says to apply it onto your hair with an applicator bottle and massage it into your scalp. Let it soak in for about 30 minutes, then wash out the oil with shampoo. [35]
  2. Try an apple cider vinegar rinse . Apple cider vinegar is a great product that can work wonders on your hair and skin, and potentially stimulate hair growth. Mix 3 parts apple cider vinegar with 1 part water, and put it in a spray bottle. Every time you shower, spritz your hair with the vinegar mixture post-shampoo. Then, wait 1 to 2 minutes and rinse it out. [36]
  3. Egg whites and aloe vera have been used in hair for centuries. They help add moisture to hair, giving it a healthier appearance, and can potentially stimulate hair growth. Mix 1 egg white with fresh aloe vera (or 100% bottled aloe) and cover your hair and scalp in the mixture. Let the mask sit for 15 to 20 minutes, and then rinse it out with cool water. Allow your hair to air-dry when finished. [37]
  4. Peel and cut a red onion into medium-sized pieces and blend it with 1 cup (236 ml) of water. Then, strain the mixture through cheesecloth to extract the juice. Pour the liquid into an applicator bottle and simply coat your scalp while your hair is dry. Let it sit for about 1 hour, and then rinse it out with cool water (no shampoo). Don’t worry—the onion won’t leave a smell in your hair as long as you rinse it all out! [38]
    • Onion juice can stimulate the scalp, which can potentially promote hair growth. [39]
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      Tips

      • At the middle stages of hair growth, you might have a hard time tying back your hair. So, use a headband or bandana to keep your hair back and protected.
      • Once you have reached the hair length you want, visit your barber or hairstylist regularly to maintain your hair at your desired length.
      • Grow your hair out long for yourself, not anyone else. If you like the look, don’t pay attention to what anyone else says.

      Tips from our Readers

      The advice in this section is based on the lived experiences of wikiHow readers like you. If you have a helpful tip you’d like to share on wikiHow, please submit it in the field below.
      • I only wash my hair 2-3 times a week. When I let my hair get "greasy" and then wash it less often I can go from a shaved head to a 4-inch ponytail within a year. I also use upper-end Tea Tree shampoo and conditioner.
      • I use Not Your Mother's Shampoo and it seems to make my hair grow twice as fast. I'm a guy and I have hair down to about an inch above my belly button right now.
      • For healthy hair, avoid dying it as this can damage the hair and dry it out. If you must, use natural hair dye products, such as henna.
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      Warnings

      • It’s a common rumor that the longer your hair is, the more it will fall out. However, this statement is scientifically unfounded. As your hair gets longer, it will appear that it is falling out more frequently, as each hair is longer and more noticeable than the short hairs. Most people lose 50 to 100 strands of hair each day, so it’s completely normal to notice your hair falling out. [40]
      • If you are working with power tools (e.g., drills, saws), tie up your hair to stay safe.
      • If your job involves working with food, put your hair up and wear a hair net.
      • Some professions may have policies against having long hair, so check in with your employer before growing out your hair, or ask if it’s acceptable to keep it tied back (like in a ponytail).
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      References

      1. Patrick Evan. Professional Hair Stylist. Expert Interview
      2. Patrick Evan. Professional Hair Stylist. Expert Interview
      3. Arthur Sebastian. Professional Hair Stylist. Expert Interview
      4. https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/hair-scalp-care/hair/healthy-hair-tips
      5. Janet Miranda. Professional Hair Stylist & Makeup Artist. Expert Interview
      6. https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/hair-scalp-care/hair/healthy-hair-tips
      7. Jenny Tran. Professional Hair Stylist. Expert Interview
      8. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/how-much-hair-is-normal-to-lose-in-the-shower
      9. Patrick Evan. Professional Hair Stylist. Expert Interview
      1. Patrick Evan. Professional Hair Stylist. Expert Interview
      2. https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/inconclusive-if-scalp-massage-stimulates-hair-growth
      3. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/your-best-strategies-for-beautiful-hair-in-the-winter
      4. https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/hair-scalp-care/hair/habits-that-damage-hair
      5. Patrick Evan. Professional Hair Stylist. Expert Interview
      6. Courtney Foster. Licensed Cosmetologist. Expert Interview
      7. Janet Miranda. Professional Hair Stylist & Makeup Artist. Expert Interview
      8. Patrick Evan. Professional Hair Stylist. Expert Interview
      9. Patrick Evan. Professional Hair Stylist. Expert Interview
      10. https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/hair-loss/causes/hairstyles
      11. Arthur Sebastian. Professional Hair Stylist. Expert Interview
      12. Ndeye Anta Niang. Hair Stylist & Master Braider. Expert Interview
      13. Madeleine Johnson. Hair Stylist & Hair Extensions Specialist. Expert Interview
      14. Ndeye Anta Niang. Hair Stylist & Master Braider. Expert Interview
      15. Bianca Cox. Professional Hair Stylist. Expert Interview
      16. Patrick Evan. Professional Hair Stylist. Expert Interview
      17. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/food-for-hair-growth
      18. Patrick Evan. Professional Hair Stylist. Expert Interview
      19. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/food-for-hair-growth
      20. Arthur Sebastian. Professional Hair Stylist. Expert Interview
      21. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/16921-hair-loss-in-women
      22. Patrick Evan. Professional Hair Stylist. Expert Interview
      23. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/the-best-vitamins-supplements-and-products-for-healthier-hair
      24. https://www.ynhhs.org/articles/taking-your-vitamins
      25. Yan Kandkhorov. Hair Stylist. Expert Interview
      26. Shun Pittman. Master Cosmetologist. Expert Interview
      27. https://health.unl.edu/apple-cider-vinegar-good-your-skin-and-hair/
      28. https://youtu.be/0tpwcVGOHT0?si=GSAaQHz_qHgz0Gpj&t=113
      29. https://youtu.be/MRvesq4d8UA?si=gAK5dZYzEjwyjkUS&t=61
      30. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12126069/
      31. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/how-much-hair-loss-is-normal

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