Realistically, there is no single magical way to grow your hair out super long, in record time (unless you count hair extensions, of course). So instead of simply lusting over celebrities’ amazing mermaid lengths, we looked to experts for their suggestions on how to help your hair along, the old-fashioned way.

1. Dry Scalp Massage

Give yourself at-home scalp massages, says L.A. haircare specialist and 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.

2. 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?

3. 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.

4. Get Trimmed Hair Grow  Faster

We know, we know: You’re trying to *avoid* chopping off any length. However, healthy hair grows faster and if you keep on letting split ends work their course, they can keep forking further up the strand, damaging hair and causing breakage.

5. Condition, Condition, Condition Hair Grow Faster

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, opt for a deep treatment hair mask more often and ditch the shampoo now and then in favor of a dry shampoo.

6. Lay off the Heat Tools Hair Grow Faster

Deep down, you know that the burnt hair smell your straightener produces 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.

7. 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.  Hair Grow Faster

First published on marieclaire.com, ccto

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