Growing out your hair before your wedding is more than just a waiting game – it’s a journey of self-care, patience, and making intentional choices that nourish your strands from root to tip. And while regular trims are a good start, that’s just scratching the surface. Whether you're aiming for a long, flowing mane or simply just healthier hair to style on your big day, these expert tips will guide you through each stage. Here’s how to make your hair dreams a reality.
Start as Early as Possible
Patience is key when it comes to growing out your hair. If your wedding day is still a year or more away, you’re in the ideal position to start working on your hair goals. The longer you give yourself to nurture your hair, the better your results will be. Starting early allows you to correct any existing damage, add nourishing treatments, and gradually make the healthiest choices without feeling rushed. Don’t wait until two months before the wedding – give yourself a solid foundation to work from.
Start at the Scalp
The scalp is where hair growth begins, so make it a priority. If your scalp is clogged, dry, or neglected, your hair follicles won’t function at their best. Try massaging your scalp for a few minutes each day to increase blood flow to the follicles, which can encourage hair growth. A scalp massage brush can be a great tool for this – whether manual or electric, these brushes help stimulate circulation and gently exfoliate the scalp. Scalp scrubs are also an excellent way to remove buildup and promote a healthy environment for hair to thrive. Look for products with gentle exfoliants like jojoba beads or natural oils such as rosemary, which are known for boosting circulation and promoting hair health. A clean, healthy scalp is the foundation for beautiful, thriving hair.
House of Gallagher, Hanna Hillier
Avoid Overprocessing
If you’ve been dyeing your hair regularly or using heat-styling tools, your hair could be suffering. Excessive coloring, bleaching, and heat can weaken your hair and slow down the growth process. Opt for more natural hair treatments and color options, and try to avoid over-bleaching or using harsh chemicals. If you can't resist color, consider gentle options like glosses or semi-permanent dyes, which are less damaging. Also, try to limit your use of heat tools like straighteners and curling irons. When you do style, make sure to always apply a heat protectant to shield your hair from damage. A break from chemical treatments and heat will allow your hair to rebuild and grow stronger, faster.
Socially Awkward Agency, Brief Club
Focus on Nutrition
You are what you eat – and so is your hair. Proper nutrition is one of the most important factors in growing long, healthy hair. Make sure you’re eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals that support hair growth. Protein is vital for strong, healthy strands, so include plenty of lean meats, eggs, beans, and nuts in your meals. Biotin, zinc, and vitamins A and C all play a role in hair health, so load up on fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Hydration is just as important – drink plenty of water to keep your hair hydrated from the inside out. If you need an extra boost, consider adding a daily multivitamin or a biotin supplement, both of which are great for promoting hair growth and reducing hair thinning.
Embrace Heatless
Styling & Drying
If you’re looking to keep your hair healthy while growing it out, try embracing heatless styling techniques. Instead of relying on a curling iron or straightener, let your hair air dry and create natural, effortless curls by gently twirling sections of your damp hair and clipping them back. This technique helps avoid the damage caused by excessive heat styling, allowing your hair to retain its moisture and shine. For drying, opt for a microfiber towel, which is much gentler on your strands than traditional terrycloth. Microfiber helps to reduce friction, prevent breakage, and absorb excess moisture without roughing up the hair cuticle. By switching to these healthier methods, you’re giving your hair the best chance to grow strong and damage-free.
Leave-In Treatments
Leave-in conditioners and masks are a must-have when growing out your hair. These magical products provide extra nourishment, hydrate your strands, and protect your hair from environmental stressors. Look for a lightweight, non-greasy formula that you can apply daily or weekly to give your hair that extra moisture boost. Opt for sulfate-free shampoos, which are gentler on your hair and scalp, and avoid stripping your strands of essential oils. A deep-conditioning treatment or masque once a week will also help restore moisture and repair any damage. Using a leave-in treatment can also make your hair more manageable, preventing tangles and breakage while encouraging smooth, healthy growth.
Crown Affair, The Salon Project
Opt for Low-Maintenance Styles & Avoid Tight Styles
As much as we love a sleek, tight ponytail or a perfectly pulled-back bun, wearing tight hairstyles too frequently can cause breakage and stifle hair growth. Opt for looser, more relaxed styles like soft waves, a loose braid, or a gentle top knot that keep the pressure off your strands. If you do wear your hair in a ponytail or braid, make sure it’s not pulling too tightly and use soft, fabric-covered hair ties to avoid breakage. Low-maintenance, gentle hairstyles will prevent unnecessary damage and promote healthy growth, letting your hair flourish in the months leading up to your wedding day.
Regular Trims
It might feel counterproductive to cut your hair while trying to grow it, but regular trims are essential for keeping your ends healthy and your hair growing at its best. Split ends and damaged hair won’t grow, so schedule a trim every 8-12 weeks to remove any unhealthy ends and keep your hair looking fresh. Don’t worry, trimming won’t stop growth – it will actually help your hair look fuller and longer. If you're aiming for a specific length on your wedding day, start trimming early so that you can plan your growth accordingly. You’ll notice your hair feeling lighter, healthier, and more manageable, and it will continue to grow strong.
Stress Management
Stress can have a major impact on your hair health – so if you’re feeling overwhelmed with wedding planning or life in general, it’s time to take a step back. High-stress levels can cause hair shedding and slow down your growth. Managing your stress is vital for both your overall well-being and your hair’s health. Make time for stress-reducing activities like yoga, meditation, or simply unwinding with a good book. Don’t forget about the most important health essential, sleep! Aim for 7-9 hours a night to give your body and hair the rest they need to grow strong and healthy. When you’re relaxed and feeling good, your hair will reflect that, so prioritize self-care as you prepare for your big day.
