We’ve all been there, haven’t we? Desperate for a change, we decide the only option is to hack all of our hair off, only to have an identity crisis once the novelty has gone. Or like me, your hairdresser has over-lapped the bleach one too many times and now the only way out is to get the dreaded big chop and start all over again.
It’s been nearly a year now since I decided to lose the peroxide, and six months since I went heat free. I’ve also had to have three big trims in that time – each time making me wince as I see all my hard work falling to floor! But the health and shine is finally back so now it’s time to for the last stage – leaving it alone and letting the growing commence!
So in the spirit of girlhood, I wanted to share with you the tips and products I’ve found on my search for longer, thicker and healthier looking hair so you can hopefully speed up your own hair growth process…
*Some products have been kindly gifted but all thoughts are my own.
1. Increase scalp circulation
So Eco, home to hair restoration products, has now added a new product to its collection. Introducing, So Eco Scalp Massaging Brush, a brush to help tackle all your hair problems and help increase your scalp blood circulation to support healthy hair growth. The scalp brush helps to stimulate your follicles while leading to a healthy-looking scalp. Hand-held and easy to use, it helps remove dry skin that leads to dandruff, eases any itchiness, improves blood circulation, and strengthens the roots of your hair.
Compact enough to fit in your handbag and super affordable it can also be used on dry hair to eliminate dandruff. I use mine in the shower whilst washing my hair and not only does it help my irritated scalp, but it also helps to detangle my curly hair. A gentle and safe way to scrub your scalp without leaving your head irritated or itchy and provides a massaging experience to help revive your hair, leading to stronger, healthier-looking hair.
2. Take time off from heat styling
Take it from someone who knows, laying off the heat for six months will give your hair a major head start in boosting both its health and growth. One of the main ways I manage to stay away from the straighteners is by slicking my hair back with gel and wearing it in a low bun. Now not everyone suits a slicked back bun, and I’m not 100% sure if I even do to be honest, but sometimes it’s needed – nights out on holiday and weekly netball games for example. My go-to gel every time is the classic Eco Style’s Rosemary Mint Gel.
Infused with rosemary oil – a natural hero when it comes to stimulating hair growth – it helps boost scalp circulation and awaken sleepy hair follicles (yes, really!). Think of it as a mini scalp workout every time you style. The minty kick isn’t just refreshing either; it soothes irritation and leaves your scalp feeling fresh and tingly in the best way. Even better? This gel is alcohol-free, so it won’t dry your strands out like some old-school formulas. Instead, it helps lock in moisture, adds shine, and keeps your hair in place without the crunch.
However, if you’re someone who can’t live without your straighteners, curling wand or blow-dry routine, make sure you at least invest in a good heat protector. Hairstory Primer is one of the best around – it’s a lightweight mist that acts like a bodyguard for your strands, shielding them from heat damage up to a sizzling 450°F. It preps your hair before styling, making it smoother, softer, and way easier to manage. Packed with nourishing ingredients like Capilipid and lilac leaf extract, it helps lock in moisture, protect against breakage, and leaves your hair looking healthy, not frazzled. Plus, it’s vegan, fragrance-free, and totally free from silicones and parabens. Spritz it on damp hair before you blow-dry or before any heat tool, and you’ll notice the difference.
Related article: 8 Foods to Have in Your Diet for Thicker Hair
3. Look after your scalp
If you’re trying to grow your hair fast, you need to start with your scalp. When you take care of your scalp, you’re ensuring that nutrients and blood can easily flow to the hair follicle. That’s why I’m a big believer in targeted scalp treatments. Think scalp drops, oils, serums, or masks – find what works for you.
I’ve recently incorporated the Soft & Co Pure Castor Oil into my routine. This is a 100% pure, cold extracted plant oil designed to nourish the scalp with Vitamin A, minerals and fatty acids and create an optimal environment for hair growth. I apply a few drops directly to my scalp after washing, and I’ve found it absorbs quickly without leaving any greasy residue. It’s just another step I’m taking to really prioritise my scalp health, which I’m convinced is the foundation for strong, healthy hair.
Another option is the Aura Scalp Balm which is a dry balm that turns into a liquid with the heat of your palms. Packed with nourishing oils and botanical extracts like Aloe Vera, Tea Tree and Blue Spirulina, this balm is designed to soothe, hydrate and rebalance your scalp Think of it as skincare for your scalp: it melts in like a dream, smells amazing, and helps create the perfect environment for stronger, longer hair. Whether you’re dealing with dryness, irritation or just want to boost growth, this little pot of magic deserves a spot in your Sunday self-care ritual. And the best part for me? It’s blue!
I’ve also been using the Hair Syrup Grows‑Mary Pre‑Wash Oil Treatment, and keeping it on overnight, and it’s now become an absolute staple in my haircare routine. It’s packed with rosemary and thyme -both known for boosting blood flow to the scalp and encouraging healthy hair growth. I massage it into my dry hair once or twice a week, leave it on for as long as I like and then rinse it out. Every time, my hair feels softer, stronger, and way more manageable.
You might recognise it from TikTok where it’s recently being going viral, with some commenters saying they had seen up to 35% more hair growth, which is wild! For me, it’s helped reduce breakage and made my scalp feel so much healthier, plus it doesn’t weigh your hair down like a lot of oils do. If you’re trying to grow your hair or bring it back to life, this one’s definitely worth a spot on your shelf.
4. Take your vitamins
Collagen is always a key part of the conversation when it comes to hair growth, and with good reason. It provides the building blocks that your body needs to make keratin which is the key protein your hair is made of. It also plays an important role in keeping your skin healthy which is necessary if you’re wanting to create the right environment for hair to grow. I’ve been incorporating a scoop of Rejuvenated Collagen Shots into my morning glass of water every day for the past month and have already noticed a difference in the elasticity of my skin due to the hyaluronic acid and vitamins C and B5. I sleep face down which has created some lines on my forehead from my pillow, but they seem to be getting less noticeable since introducing the collagen shots which is really encouraging!
While I’m a firm believer that no single supplement is a magic bullet for hair growth, I’ve seen a noticeable difference since incorporating the WelleCo’s The Hair Elixir into my daily routine. I’ve been taking their recommended dose per day for the past few months, and my hair looks and feels noticeably thicker and shinier. My hairline around my face has also filled in quite a bit and I’ve noticed a lot less strands falling out on hair wash day.
It’s a vegan supplement which is packed with hair-loving nutrients like biotin, zinc, and iodine (from organic seaweed), all of which are known to support hair growth and reduce breakage. It also includes adaptogens like rhodiola to help your body handle stress which I didn’t realise can often be a sneaky culprit behind thinning hair. It’s become a key part of my overall hair care strategy, and I’d definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a well-rounded hair supplement.
Another stand out supplement recommendation from one of our TDS writers, Claire, is the Seabody Beauty Supplement. It’s packed with all the green flags you’d expect like Biotin, Zinc, Vitamin C, as well as marine-based Fucoidan – which might sound fancy, but basically helps support healthy hair, glowing skin and stronger nails. It’s vegan, sustainably made in Ireland, and doesn’t come with any of the filler ingredients you’ll find in some other supplements. Claire’s on her third month of the Beauty Supplement and says her hair definitely feels like it’s been given a serious boost of goodness and the shine is next level!
5. Protect your hair whilst you sleep
A silk or satin pillow is a great way of protecting your face from wrinkles and your hair from matting and frizzing in the night. Or you could go one better and invest in a silk bonnet or turban which will stop your hair from tangling full stop, or from changing texture if you’ve got a fan or dehumidifier in your bedroom!
If you’d rather opt for a bonnet that’s sleek and stays close to your head than the bigger one’s that require an elastic band round your hairline to keep them on, then the Celeste Silk Veil could be the best option for you. Made from pure mulberry silk, not only does it look super chic, but it’s designed to reduce any friction on your hair while you sleep – meaning less breakage, fewer tangles, and no more waking up to a nest of split ends. Unlike cotton, which can pull on delicate strands and absorb your hair’s natural oils, silk helps to lock in moisture and protect your lengths as they grow.
Whether you’re aiming for Rapunzel hair goals or just want stronger, healthier strands, slipping this luxurious veil on at night is an easy win no matter what your hair type is.
6. Embrace your natural hair texture
Let’s hear it for natural texture – because your hair was made to do exactly what it’s doing. Whether it’s coily, wavy, curly or gloriously unpredictable, embracing your natural texture is all about working with your hair, not against it. Ditch the endless heat styling and start giving your strands the hydration, definition and care they deserve.
If you’re on a hair health journey or embracing your natural curls and waves, the Remington Airvive Digital Hair Dryer might just be your new holy grail. Designed to be kind to your hair, it uses high-speed airflow and lower heat to dry your hair faster with way less damage. That means fewer split ends, less breakage, and a better chance of seeing real growth. The real game-changer though is it comes with a magnetic diffuser that enhances your natural texture without flattening or frizzing it out, and a slim nozzle for when you want to go smooth and sleek. Add in heat-activated micro-conditioners that lock in moisture and shine, and you’ve got a dryer that works with your hair not against it. Perfect for curly or wavy girls who want definition, bounce, and healthier hair with every blowdry.
7. Use silicone and sulphate free shampoo’s
Making the switch to a silicone and sulfate-free shampoo like Cantu’s Weightless Smoothing Shampoo can do wonders for your hair, especially if you’re focused on growth and long-term health. Sulphate’s are known for creating a satisfying lather, but they can also strip away the natural oils your hair and scalp need to stay hydrated and strong. For me this led to dryness, breakage, and a scalp that was less than happy. Silicones on the other hand, often leave behind a coating that can weigh hair down and block moisture from getting in. Going without them allows your strands to truly breathe, soak up the good stuff, and stay light, fresh, and full of movement.
And don’t worry, with Cantu’s you’ll still get that lather as well as a delicious smell of coconut and shea butter, just without any of the build-up or brittleness that you get with regular shampoo’s!
8. Invest in a good hair mask and leave-in
Getting into the habit of treating your hair as much as you treat your skin will really help with your hair care journey. Adding a mask to your self-care routine once a week will not only help with growing your hair long and strong but will also help the look and feel of your hair too.
If you’ve got curly or wavy hair that’s on the drier side and need an extra bit of conditioning day to day the Hask Curl Care 5‑in‑1 Leave‑In Spray is a low-key miracle in a bottle. This multitasker detangles, controls frizz for up to 24 hours, seals in hydration, protects against heat (up to 205 °C), and gives your hair a soft, glossy finish – all thanks to a blend of coconut oil, argan oil, and vitamin E. It’s also packed with a Curl Activating Complex that brings lasting definition to every coil and wave. Plus, it’s vegan, cruelty‑free, and silicone-free, so it’s a clean, conscious choice for everyday curl care. Try it, and trust me, you’ll immediately see and feel the difference!
Hask has a great range of deep conditioners for every hair type and one of my favourites (especially for holidays with minimal suitcase space!) is the Hask Argan Oil Repairing Deep Conditioner. Packed with Moroccan argan oil (aka liquid gold), it delivers a burst of hydration, smooths split ends, and plumps strands with moisture and shine. Just massage it into wet hair, leave for about 10 minutes, rinse, and you’ll see the magic for yourself. Plus, its sulfate and paraben-free formula means it’s gentle on your hair.
Another all time favourite is Cloud Nine’s Magical Remedy which really lives up to its name! From the first use, my hair felt noticeably softer, smoother, and so much easier to manage. It’s super versatile – I use it as a leave-in when I’m short on time, or as a deep conditioner when my hair needs some serious TLC. What I love most about it is that it helps repair and protect without weighing my hair down. It tames frizz, adds shine, and actually makes my ends look healthier (which is no small feat after years of bleach and heat styling). It’s packed with nourishing ingredients like natural oils, keratin and collagen – you can immediately feel the buttery moisture in it! Whether I’m blow-drying or letting it air dry, this leave in is a total game-changer.
You can check out some of my other favourite hair masks here.
Remember, healthy hair growth doesn’t happen overnight, but with the right habits, products, and a little patience, you should start to see real results around the six month mark. Whether it’s choosing gentle, nourishing formulas, massaging your scalp, or cutting back on heat styling, every small change adds up. The key is consistency and care. So stick with it, trust the process, and most importantly – be kind to your hair!
Beauty Editor at The Daily Struggle. Beauty and makeup loving Liverpool girl with a tendency to over share and over spend. Dawn writes everything from skincare reviews to the latest makeup looks.
