Tips & Products to Grow Longer Hair, According to a Dermatologist

“An ideal hair-care routine for growth focuses on both the scalp and the strands,” Dr. Mamina tells E! News. She recommends starting with a “gentle cleanser to keep the scalp balanced, followed by a nourishing conditioner or mask to strengthen and hydrate.” Even though hair growth starts at the scalp, “caring for the lengths and ends is what keeps your hair strong enough to actually reach its full length.”

Next, use a “scalp serum or treatment with clinically backed, growth-supporting ingredients like peptides, caffeine, biotin, panthenol, and arginine — similar to those in formulas like Obagi’s BioStim Scalp Serum. These help stimulate follicles, improve circulation, and create a healthier foundation for growth.”

To protect your hair, she also suggests: minimizing heat damage, being gentle when detangling, and protecting hair from UV and environmental stressors. “Over time, consistency in this type of routine makes the biggest difference for promoting longer, stronger, healthier hair,” Dr. Mamina says.

What about hair cuts? Dr. Mamina says “regular trims do help your hair look and feel healthier by preventing split ends from traveling up the shaft, which can lead to breakage. Think of it as maintenance that helps you retain length, not speed up growth.”