Photo: Scott Webb

How to accelerate hair growth?

How to make your hair grow stronger Keep up with vitamins and nutrients. ... Apply essential oils/carrier oils. ... Try topical ointments. ... Take keratin supplements. ... Use a topical protein treatment. ... Caffeinate your follicles.

healthline.com - 6 Ways to Make Your Hair Grow Faster and Stronger - Healthline

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We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness. Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:

Healthline only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.

We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission. Here’s our process. Research is still exploring how hair growth is regulated at the cellular level in your body, and little is known about the possibility of speeding up hair growth.

How fast your hair grows depends on factors like:

In total, the growth cycle for each hair on your scalp can take 2 to 6 years. You’re born with all the hair follicles you’ll ever have. Your head alone has about 100,000 follicles . As you age, some follicles stop producing hair, which is what causes baldness or hair thinning. Still, there are steps you can take that may promote healthy hair during the anagen phase. Researchers are still looking into what triggers our bodies to switch on the anagen phase, and more studies are needed to know for certain what can be done to promote hair growth. Hair grows because matrix cells shed some of their structure as they reach the upper follicle. The shed structure combines with keratins to form hair strands that exit your skin’s surface. How long the anagen phase lasts depends on how long your hair is and if the cells in your follicle base are continuing to multiply and become hair cells. At any given time, the average scalp has 90 percent of the hair follicles in the anagen phase, about 1 percent in the catagen phase, and about 9 percent in the telogen phase. The last group accounts for the approximately 100 to 150 strands of hair that fall out every day. Hair grows in three stages , and each strand of hair follows its own timeline:

Hair is made up of keratin and dead skin cells.

While there’s no direct way to make your hair grow faster overnight, there are steps you can take to keep your hair healthy and long.

1. Keep up with vitamins and nutrients

While many companies promote vitamins or supplements for hair growth, they don’t always directly affect hair length. Your body requires a lot of energy to make your hair grow, so getting too few calories and certain nutrients can affect it. Generally, it’s best to get your vitamins and nutrients from your diet. Still, you may also look into taking certain supplements — particularly if you have a deficiency. Below are some of the nutrients commonly touted to promote hair growth and the science behind their efficacy: Nutrient Efficacy Supporting studies Omega-3 and DHA may work One study found that a mackerel oil extract lengthened hair fibers and promoted growth during the anagen phase. It’s important to note that this study was conducted on mice; there is currently no credible research done on humans. Zinc may only affect those with a zinc deficiency Zinc deficiency plays a role in hair loss, with lower levels common in alopecia areata — an autoimmune disorder that causes hair loss. Biotin (vitamin B7) may only affect those with a biotin deficiency While biotin is often promoted for hair growth, there’s not enough evidence to show that it works if you’re not deficient. Vitamin C unlikely, and only supported by anecdotal evidence The antioxidant effects of vitamin C may help prevent oxidative stress that can cause hair to gray and thin out. However, there’s no evidence that vitamin C directly influences hair growth. Iron may only affect those with an iron deficiency Iron deficiency is commonly linked to hair loss . Common signs to look for are hair thinning or more shedding than normal. Vitamin D may only affect those with autoimmune hair loss Studies have found that people with alopecia areata commonly have vitamin D deficiencies, but more research is needed to determine if there is a definitive hair loss link. A note on supplements Talk with your doctor before trying supplements like biotin, keratin, or other nutrients. They may interact with any medications you take and cause unintended side effects.

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If your doctor determines that you have a deficiency in certain nutrients that can relate to hair growth or hair loss conditions, you may consider asking them about the over-the-counter (OTC) supplement Hair Sweet Hair from HUM. These vegan gummies contain vitamin B12, folic acid, biotin, and zinc, as well as fo-ti root extract to promote hair growth.

They cost $26 for a 30-day supply consisting of 60 gummies.

Pros Provides your daily needs of vitamin B12, zinc, folic acid, and biotin. The company says that 83% of customers reported faster hair growth after taking the gummies for 3 months. The gummies are easy to take and feature a pleasant berry flavor. Cons The company says it may take at least 4–6 weeks to see results, which at least quadruples the cost of the monthly supply. It may not be efficient if you’re not deficient in any of the included nutrients.

2. Apply essential oils/carrier oils

Put a few drops of tea tree, rosemary, or lime oil into your shampoo or dilute it with jojoba oil. In one review , researchers found that these three oils can improve scalp health. Still, there is a lack of studies proving that any essential oil will make your hair grow faster. Another review found that the below essential oils may benefit hair loss treatment:

lavender

chamomile

thyme

peppermint

garlic extract

Avoid applying essential oils directly to your skin. Instead, dilute them in a carrier oil. While research suggests there are health benefits, the FDA doesn’t monitor or regulate the purity or quality of essential oils. It’s important to talk with a healthcare professional before you begin using essential oils and be sure to research the quality of a brand’s products. Always do a patch test before trying a new essential oil. For instance, add a few drops of essential oil into 1 ounce (29.6 mL) of carrier oil. Certain carrier oils may even help moisturize your hair: It’s always best to check with a dermatologist before applying essential oils to your hair and scalp. Once cleared with a professional, this set of five carrier oils may be a good way to add moisture and shine to your hair without causing any allergic reactions that some essential oils might be associated with. The set includes almond, avocado, castor, coconut, and grapeseed oils. If you’re new to carrier oils, this is a good way to try multiple types without investing in larger bottles of each.

You can purchase the set for $24.95.

Pros Each set includes five different carrier oils so you can try out a variety.

They may help reduce frizz and dryness.

They may promote moisture in your hair and scalp. Cons There’s not enough evidence to prove that any oils can make your hair grow faster.

Some customers note that this set contains different quantities of oils.

3. Try topical ointments

Topical ointments are generally recommended for people who experience hair loss and may help your hair grow. Studies show that the below products promote hair growth and help treat alopecia, or hair loss: Topical melatonin. It may reduce hair loss and increase the anagen growth cycle, according to one review. It may reduce hair loss and increase the anagen growth cycle, according to one review. Topical minoxidil 5 percent (Rogaine). Slows hair loss when used daily for 3 to 6 months. Slows hair loss when used daily for 3 to 6 months. Prescription finasteride (Propecia) topical. According to one preliminary review , this may promote hair growth and reduce the rate of hair loss in androgenetic alopecia, also known as male-pattern baldness. Considered the number one dermatologist-recommended brand of minoxidil, this OTC treatment by Rogaine is said to boost hair regrowth by supporting hair follicle and protein production. This is a once-daily formula that’s gentle enough to use on color-treated hair. It may be combined with certain prescription treatments recommended by your dermatologist. Note that Rogaine sells different minoxidil formulas marketed to men and women separately. Generally, they will set you back $45 for a 4-month supply.

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Pros IT comes in an easy-to-use foam can with a dispenser tip for easy application onto your scalp.

Minoxidil is among the most trusted and clinically studied hair growth treatments.

The product is unscented and gentle on sensitive skin. Cons It can take at least a few months for the product to start working.

Separate formulas are marketed for males and females.

4. Take keratin supplements

Hair loss is a common symptom of protein deficiency, so taking protein supplements — including keratin — may improve hair health in those who are deficient. Besides this, not much is known about the effects of protein, keratin, and vitamins on hair health. One test-tube study found that keratin might decrease hair loss, treat damaged hair, and increase hair diameter. Still, more research is needed to better understand how this nutrient might support hair growth. Nutrafol is a well-known brand of hair growth supplements, with formulas available for men and women. Their Women’s Formula contains both keratin and collagen protein to support hair strength for less breakage. It also contains other essential nutrients, such as biotin, zinc, and vitamins A, C, and D.

The price is $88 for a 30-day supply of 120 capsules.

Pros It’s a well-rounded product that offers hair-friendly proteins as well as some of the essential nutrients you might find in a traditional multivitamin. The ingredients are said to target your body’s stress responses to reduce stress-related hair loss. According to the company, 90 percent of customers see improvements in their hair. Cons It may not be effective if you’re not deficient in any of the included nutrients.

The price is relatively high, even for just a 1-month supply.

5. Use a topical protein treatment

Protein helps your hair grow and protects it from chemical and environmental damage. Some studies have indicated that a low protein intake could be associated with reduced hair growth. Generally, it’s best to get protein from your diet instead of relying on supplements. Good sources include certain vegetables, nuts, yogurt, and foods like lean meat and fish. If you style or apply heat to your hair often, using a protein treatment may help protect it. You can purchase these products online. This collagen-based cream for dry hair is designed to use after shampooing to hydrate, strengthen, and prevent further damage. Additionally, this product helps detangle your hair and prevent breakage, making it ideal for curly hair types.

It will set you back $7.75 for a tube.

Pros It’s promoted to treat damaged hair.

It srengthens your hair to promote effective growth.

It’s more affordable than other protein hair treatments on the market. Cons It may not add shine and luster like alternative oil-based products. The product contains wheat, which some people need to avoid if they have a wheat allergy or sensitivity.

6. Caffeinate your follicles

Caffeine has been shown to promote hair growth , with women being more sensitive to its hair follicle effects. While more studies are needed on caffeine as a hair growth promoter, preliminary research has shown that topical formulas may decrease hair loss, especially when combined with minoxidil.

Using hair products with caffeine as an ingredient may also help.

This highly rated shampoo from Alpecin combines caffeine with niacin and zinc to promote fuller-looking hair and a thicker texture. It also contains castor oil for strength and shine. While sold worldwide, Alpecin C1 is considered the most popular caffeine shampoo in Germany.

The cost is $12.45 per bottle.

Pros Ingredients like caffeine and zinc may promote hair growth.

Castor oil can provide shine to thinning hair.

The effects of caffeine are said to last for 24 hours. Cons It may take up to 3 months to work. Some customers report that their hair looks better after use, though they don’t notice increased growth speed.

How to accelerate hair growth?

At what age are most men impotent?

Does magnesium help prostatitis?

Healthline only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.

How fast your hair grows depends on factors like:

Hair is made up of keratin and dead skin cells.

1. Keep up with vitamins and nutrients

What does zinc do for older adults?

How does prostate cancer cause death?

They cost $26 for a 30-day supply consisting of 60 gummies.

2. Apply essential oils/carrier oils

lavender

chamomile

thyme

peppermint

garlic extract

You can purchase the set for $24.95.

They may help reduce frizz and dryness.

Some customers note that this set contains different quantities of oils.

3. Try topical ointments

Is apples good for prostate?

Does raw garlic increase testosterone?

Minoxidil is among the most trusted and clinically studied hair growth treatments.

Separate formulas are marketed for males and females.

4. Take keratin supplements

The price is $88 for a 30-day supply of 120 capsules.

The price is relatively high, even for just a 1-month supply.

5. Use a topical protein treatment

It will set you back $7.75 for a tube.

Pros It’s promoted to treat damaged hair.

It srengthens your hair to promote effective growth.

6. Caffeinate your follicles

Using hair products with caffeine as an ingredient may also help.

The cost is $12.45 per bottle.

Pros Ingredients like caffeine and zinc may promote hair growth.

Castor oil can provide shine to thinning hair.

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