16 Ways to Make Hair Grow Faster, According to Experts

Getting Rapunzel-like strands is no easy feat—ask anyone who’s gobbled down countless biotin pills and vitamin E supplements only to be greeted with the same lackluster strands. On average, hair grows roughly half an inch each month, adding up to about six inches per year. Of course, a number of factors can affect hair growth, like age (we tend to shed hair as we get older), overall health (like vitamin deficiencies), and factors such as stress and daily habits (like smoking).

There are also several ways to contribute to hair growth, including physical stimulation—such as massaging the heck out of your scalp. Turns out giving yourself a scalp massage using some key natural ingredients can help retain length and, in turn, make your strands look more Blake Lively–esque. There’s also the whole egg-yolk-mask thing, and let’s not forget the sworn-by hot castor oil treatment.

With plenty of natural and over-the-counter treatment options, achieving the hair of your dreams doesn’t have to feel so far-fetched. Just remember, there isn’t an ingredient or method that can actually make your hair grow faster from the root. To help us figure out how to grow healthier, stronger hair that will reduce breakage at the ends and, in turn, promote length, we hit up the pros.

Meet the Expert

• Meryl Pritchard is a holistic nutritionist and the founder of Kore Kitchen.
• Alan J. Bauman, MD, is a board-certified hair restoration surgeon and an advisory board member for the World Trichology Society.

Keep scrolling for 16 ways to achieve healthy, longer hair.

Michela Buttignol / Byrdie