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 colour for too long and now the only way out is to get the dreaded big chop to 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. Invest in good quality shampoo
Previously I was absolutely the type of girl who thought shampoo is shampoo surely? However, having tried shampoo from more high-end brands I have seen the biggest difference in the overall look of my hair. Odylique’s Reviving Rosemary Shampoo has been my go too for the last couple of weeks. Packed with rosemary, using two different extracts, which gives it a nice, fresh scent and a seriously invigorating feel. Plus, they’ve added seaweed and aloe amino acids, which are supposed to be great for scalp health and shine. And you know what? My hair does feel stronger.
Not only does this shampoo and conditioner feel super luxurious to use it has left my hair feeling thicker and shinier, whilst clearing any flakiness from my scalp. What more could you ask for?
If you’re looking to switch to a higher-end shampoo I would highly recommend investing in the Odylique rosemary shampoo and conditioner.
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!
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 feeding your strands with hydration, definition and care. The result? Healthier hair, less breakage and a whole lot more confidence. It’s time to celebrate the way your hair moves, lives and shows up in the world – perfectly you, just as it is.
7. Invest in a good hair mask
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.
You can check out some of my favourites here.
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.
