Hair growth tips: how to get thicker and longer hair

Get thicker and fuller hair by caring for your scalp, improving your diet, and treating your hair more gently. These tips will help support natural hair growth and volume.

Why has my hair growth slowed down?

Hair growth often slows as we age. By middle age, many people find their hair enters a 'resting phase' rather than a growth phase. Along with this, hair may become drier, thinner, more brittle, or coarse. Grey hair, which lacks melanin and protein, can also lose its shine. But the root cause of slowed growth is often the scalp, not the hair itself—keeping your scalp in good shape is key for maintaining hair health.

How to maintain a healthy scalp (and help hair growth)

Giving your scalp proper attention can make a real difference in supporting hair growth. Here's how to care for it:

  • Eat a balanced diet – Include protein-rich foods like leafy greens, beans, nuts, eggs, fish, and chicken. Antioxidant-rich foods, such as blueberries, beets, and beans, can also promote good circulation to your scalp.
  • Massage your scalp – It improves blood flow, which supports the hair follicles and can aid growth. It doesn’t take long and is worth adding to your routine.
  • Try coconut oil during your massage – This may help moisturize roots and support normal hair growth.

5 practical hair growth tips for longer hair

  • Get regular trims – It may seem counterproductive, but trimming removes split ends, which helps prevent breakage and allows your hair to grow longer over time.
  • Consider supplements – Nutrients like vitamin B7 (Biotin), copper, selenium, and zinc play a role in normal hair maintenance.
  • Limit how often you wash your hair – Washing too frequently can strip away natural oils. Space out washes to help maintain moisture.
  • Never skip conditioner – Conditioner nourishes the scalp and can help prevent split ends, keeping hair healthier.
  • Take breaks from heated tools – Curlers, straighteners, and dryers can make hair brittle. Aim for five days without heat styling and two days with, letting your hair breathe in between.

5 practical hair growth tips for fuller hair

  • Use thickening hair products – Look for volumising shampoos and conditioners. They often contain fewer heavy ingredients and can give your hair a boost.
  • Reverse your wash routine – Apply conditioner before shampooing. This method can reduce the effect of conditioner weighing your hair down, resulting in more volume.
  • Reach for dry shampoo – Spraying some on before bed allows your hair to absorb it overnight, offering a natural lift by morning.
  • Work in some mousse – A bit of mousse (about the size of an egg) can add volume to fine hair. Apply to damp hair and work from roots to tips for best effect.
  • Use an egg treatment – Eggs are full of protein, which is beneficial for hair health. Here's how to try it:

How to create an egg treatment for your hair

  • Whisk one or two eggs
  • Apply to your scalp and damp hair
  • Leave on for 30 minutes
  • Wash off with warm water and mild shampoo

3 other hair growth tips to consider

  • Switch your towel – Traditional towels can be rough on wet hair. Try a microfibre hair towel instead, which is gentler and helps reduce breakage.
  • Treat your hair weekly – Use a hydrating hair mask or oil to lock in moisture. Apply oil to damp hair to help it absorb better.
  • Sleep on a silk or satin pillowcase – These fabrics reduce friction while you sleep, helping to prevent tangles and breakage.

With a few thoughtful changes to how you care for your scalp and hair, longer or fuller locks are within reach. These simple, effective tips can help support your hair goals, whether you're after more length, volume, or both.

Disclaimer

The advice in this article is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical care. Please speak with your GP or healthcare provider before using any supplements, treatments, or remedies.

Food supplements are not a substitute for a varied, balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle.

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