7 Ways to Make Your Hair Grow Faster

Realistically, there is no one magical way to make your hair super long, super fast (unless you count hair extensions, of course). So instead of simply lusting over celebrities' amazing 'dos (ugh, Blake), try these tips to help your hair grow faster.

• Dry Scalp Massage

Give yourself at-home scalp massages, says L.A. stylist Philip B. Massaging your head can help stimulate the blood flow to your scalp, which helps nutrients get to your hair follicles more quickly. Better yet, nudge a *friend* to give you a scalp massage.

• Wet Hair Massage

While washing your hair, massage the scalp with your fingertips, starting at the back of the neck and moving around the hairline. A perfect excuse to stay in the shower longer, no?

•  Get Trimmed

We know, we know: You are trying to avoid chopping off any length. However, healthy hair grows faster. On the flip side, if you keep on letting long hair grow, split ends can work their way up stands, damaging hair and making it even shorter.

•  Vitamin 101

UCLA dermatologist Harold Lancer also suggests taking an over-the-counter vitamin every day that contains antioxidant blends and vitamin B derivatives to help fortify strands. Supplements like biotin, found at basically any local pharmacy, encourage healthy hair and nail growth, while some haircare experts recommend taking Viviscal as well to speed things up.

• Condition, Condition, Condition

Fact: Shampoo takes all of the dirt and grime out of your hair and scalp, while conditioner replenishes nutrients that you hair needs to be healthy and shiny. To help keep your hair in tip-top shape without stripping your hair of its natural oils and nutrients, ditch the shampoo every once in a while and alternate with one of these dry shampoos. 

• Lay off the Heat Tools

Deep down, you know that the burnt hair smell your straightener creates can't be a great sign for your tresses. To avoid heat damage, use your dryer, curling iron, and flat iron less, and when you *do*, use heat protectant products to shield your strands from harm, like ALTERNA Haircare Caviar Repair Multi-Vitamin Heat Protection Spray.

 

•  Cold Water Rinse

Before you step out of the shower, douse your mane in cold water for a few seconds. This will help seal your hair cuticles, and prevent moisture loss and heat damage. Alternatively, avoid using scalding hot water when washing you hair, as it can weaken and dry out strands over time.