Laurabeth Cabbot, a Los Angeles professional hairstylist, also points to scalp stimulation as her number one tip for hair growth. “Scalp stimulation therapy is a great way to stimulate your hair follicle,” she says. “You can find certain specialists that are specifically trained in scalp stimulation treatments such as scalp acupuncture, because sometimes even natural remedies can help.” If you’d rather DIY, there are plenty of at-home scalp-stimulating massagers, though my personal favorite is Body Proud’s adorable duck scalp brush.
“Anything that helps manipulate the scalp helps promote hair growth,” adds Mena, which can even includes brushes and how you use them. “I always tell my clients to brush their scalp with a boar-bristle brush,” he says, citing the infamous Mason Pearson brush as his favorite for the job. “Just part your hair, section it, and comb the scalp. This manipulates the scalp, helps to produce your natural oils, and it can help make your hair grow.”
Dr. Henry agrees, saying that a healthy scalp is essential for optimal hair growth. “Regular scalp massages with gentle pressure can help stimulate blood circulation to the hair follicles,” she says. “And this increased blood flow brings more nutrients and oxygen to the hair roots, promoting healthy hair growth.” And this is important even if you’re using scalp serums and oils. “They will be most effective in conjunction with a multitargeting supplement or other treatment,” she adds.
Dietary supplements
Dr. Green and Dr. Henry also point to hair supplements as excellent way to provide nutrients that support hair growth. “Nutrafol is a popular physician-formulated and clinically tested dietary supplement formulated with ingredients that target hair health from within,” says Dr. Henry. “It typically includes a blend of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and botanical extracts. These nutrients can help address underlying factors that might contribute to hair thinning and promote a conducive environment for hair growth.”
Further, Nutrafol’s ingredients like biotin, saw palmetto, marine collagen, and horsetail extract are believed to support hair follicles, improve circulation, and provide essential nutrients for hair vitality.
Another option, which both Dr. Green and Mena recommend, are Viviscal Hair Growth Supplements. “Nutrafol is formulated with saw palmetto, ashwagandha, natural ingredients, and a propriety blend created to address causes of hair health such as hormones and nutrition,” says Dr. Green, “and Viviscal supplements contain proprietary and essential vitamins, such as B vitamins, biotin, and vitamin C, that are proven to thicken hair and increase growth.”
Frequent trims & good hair care habits
Cutting your hair may feel counterintuitive, but both Hurtado and Cabbot say that it’s a must when it comes to promoting hair growth. “Getting rid of dry split ends allows hair to grow healthy and long and maintains the hairstyle,” says Hurtado.
“While procedures, serums, and vitamins are all effective treatment options, changing your hair routine can promote hair growth,” Dr. Green reiterates. Sometimes hair growth is simply a matter of taking better care of your hair—which, of course, includes those dreaded regular trims. “Heat styling, using straightening or curling irons, breaks down the bonds in your hair, leading to decreased moisture. Try opting for no-heat styles or, if you need to use heat, use a heat protectant that can stand the temperature you are using,” Dr. Green continues. “Using chemicals, dyes, and relaxers on your hair can damage the hair and cause breakage. Avoid these processes, use them less frequently, or use semipermanent dyes over permanent ones.”
Thickening treatments
Another way to bolster hair growth? Incorporating robust hair-repair and thickening products into your routine to ensure your hair recovers from damage and stays its healthiest.
