The Ultimate Hair Growth Journey: Focusing on Scalp Health, Hair Health, and Essential Supplements
Here is a detailed glimpse into my own hair growth journey! Sharing everything that I have learned as well as what’s working for me.
As a disclaimer, you don’t need all of this stuff! I bought multiple products to be able to test and see which I liked the most, but I would pick one or two aspects that fit into your lifestyle and start there.
But SPOILER ALERTS – I think the microneedling is making the biggest difference.
Between having four babies, losing 100 pounds, and just the stress of being an adult, I’ve lost so much hair.
When I was little my hair my ponytail was 3 to 4 inches thick and now it’s maybe an inch and half thick. So while I have lost a lot of hair, I know the thickness I am capable of.
Before I doubled down on everything I’m currently doing to grow my hair now, I was consistently using Divi Scalp Serum for my scalp health. And WOW!!!! You can see the new growth from my Divi journey in this photo. It works!
Through everything that I’ve learned so far, I have found it easiest to break your hair growth journey into 3 categories: Scalp Health (promote new hair growth), Hair Health (protect and strengthen current hair + new hair that is growing in), and Nutrition (because what you put in your body makes a big difference too.)
Part One: Scalp Health
Your scalp is the foundation for healthy hair growth. A well-nourished scalp encourages strong hair follicles and, ultimately, healthier hair. Here are some of the key products and techniques you can incorporate into your routine.
- Microneedling with BeautyBio Tool: This tool not only stimulates blood flow to the scalp but also enhances the absorption of scalp serums. After using the microneedling tool, apply either a scalp serum or oil. Be sure to note that it’s important to microneedle on a clean dry scalp with no products in your hair so if you choose to use an oil after you microneedle, that will require another wash a few hours later or the next morning.
I love the Healthy Scalp Serum by Beauty Bio that came with my microneedling tool and use that afterward because it is non-oily and doesn’t require extra washing. Out of all the research that I’ve done and all of the people I follow who are also on their hair growth journey, everyone says microneedling is it and makes the biggest difference! I’d have to agree. I’ve used scalp serum before and I’ve used oils before before, but I see so many little fine hairs coming up all over my head (ESPECIALLY along my hairline) now that I’ve been consistently microneedling!
I started microneedling once a week for the first month and now micorneedle twice/week. - Non-Oily Scalp Serum: While an oil is going to leave your hair, well, oily lol and require hair washing, I typically only wash my hair every 2-3 days so I love having something for my scalp that will work its magic and not require extra washes. My favorite is Divi. The results that you see above are from that scalp serum alone. It’s only been about 8 weeks since I’ve started doing all the things, but I have been consistently using Divi every day for over a year. I also love the Healthy Scalp Serum from Beauty Bio.
- Scalp Oils: Oils like Bur Bur Growing Season Oil and Chambal Sacred Oil are excellent for maintaining scalp moisture. For a more intense treatment, try Art Naturals Hair Oil with Rosemary and Castor Oil. You really only need one, but I wanted to try a few to see if one stood out. They all are great and I use all of them, but if I had to choose a favorite, I would say the Bur Bur Oil because I love the applicator (it’s really easy put in your hair and doesn’t drip everywhere) and it smells SO good.
The castor oil one is thick and requires a little more effort to apply.
AND as a bonus I bought these mascara wands off Amazon and I put the castor oil to use on my eyebrows and sometimes on my lashes too at night time.
- Shampoo & Conditioner is for both scalp health and hair health. I like the Divi shampoo and conditioner, they cleanse well and smell great. There are definintely times where I don’t feel like washing my hair, or if I’m being completely honest, have the energy to wash it because I’m still a busy mom of 4, so on those days I use Divi Dry Shampoo.
- Scalp Massage: Massage helps promote blood flow and stimulate hair growth. I massage with a Shampoo Scalp Massager when I wash my hair, but I also do a nightly scalp massage using a wooden comb. You can use your fingers, but I prefer the comb because it takes less effort and finger muscles. It also feels so good on the base of your skull and neck where you might be holding some extra tension. I start using circular motions all over and then I do combing motions. I also spend extra time around my ears and anywhere else it feels good.
Part Two: Hair Health
Healthy hair isn’t just about the scalp—it’s about the strands themselves. Here’s what you can do to keep your hair in its best condition:
1. Bond-Building Shampoo Treatment: I use this Coco&Eve Bond-Building Shampoo Treatment once a week. While it doesn’t specify how often to use it, I find that weekly use works well for maintaining the strength of my hair. After using this treatment, I always follow up with a shampoo and then a hair mask.
2. Proper Hair Mask Application: When you do a hair mask, make sure to follow the recommended steps. It is so important to let it sit on there for the time specified as to let it completely penetrate the hair follicle. After applying the mask, I towel-dry my hair, and for an extra boost, I use a Kitsch Heat Cap and let it sit for 30 minutes before rinsing.
3. Hair Masks: Hair masks are a critical part of my routine, especially after using the bond-building shampoo. I use a mask usually twice/week. My go-to masks are:
- Hairbrush for Your Hair Type: The right hairbrush is essential for minimizing breakage. I use the Gimme Hairbrush designed for fine hair. It’s important to choose a brush that suits your specific hair texture. Gimme has several for different textures like fine, medium, thick & curly. Snag one online OR they also sell them at Target.
- Hair Dryer: I’m absolutely OBSESSED with the Zuvi Hair Dryer. Real talk – I’ve used so many hair dryers and I know they aren’t all the same – but they all seem the same. THIS ONE…is NOT the same. Yes, it’s an investment, but it dries hair with light and cool air, reducing heat damage while still being just as fast as a traditional dryer. Plus, it’s incredibly quiet! I also love that the attachments are magnetic. I cannot recommend this hair dryer enough.
- Avoiding Tension: To protect your hair from breakge, avoid putting too much tension on it. I only use hair ties when necessary, like at the gym, but all other times I prefer using claw clips. Silk hair scrunchies are a gentle way to keep hair up too if you need an alternative to a claw clip. And don’t forget a satin pillowcase to prevent tugging and breakage while you sleep!
- Kitsch Microfiber Hair Towels: Protecting your hair starts with the right tools. I use these after showering to gently dry my hair without causing breakage. Plus they’re handy since they don’t slip off your head or pull at your hair while trying to stay on. They’re light and comfy to wear too! (They work great for little girls hair too!)
- Heatless Curls: I love to sleep in this Cozy Confidence Heatless Curls (you can use my code Natasha10) or the Kitsch Heatless Curling Rod. I find that I get more beachline curls/waves with Cozy Confidence and rounder more bouncy curls with Kitsch. Using one of these will help prevent heat damage and they are comfortable to sleep in.
TIPS FOR HEATLESS CURLS
I get the best curls when I wash my hair at night and put in the curling rod immediately after blow drying OR I will curl my hair with a curling iron or rod and use a heatless rod at night to keep the curls looking fresh the next day without having to apply more heat. If I am not using immediately after blowdrying, I always lightly mist my hair (don’t get it too wet) before putting it in. - Heat Protectant: When you blow dry or use hot tools a heat protectant is a must! My favorite is BondiBoost Heat Protectant Spray
Part Three: Nutrition & Supplements
Supplements can play a significant role in supporting hair growth from within.
- Hydration: Staying hydrated is crucial for hair growth because water plays a key role in maintaining the health of your hair follicles and scalp. When you’re well-hydrated, your scalp stays moisturized, which can help prevent dryness and flakiness that might otherwise hinder hair growth. Plus, water supports the transportation of essential nutrients to your hair follicles, promoting stronger and shinier hair. Adding electrolytes to your hydration routine can enhance this process by ensuring that your body maintains the right balance of fluids and nutrients, further boosting overall hair health. So, if you’re looking to boost your hair’s health, sipping enough water throughout the day, and considering electrolytes, is a simple but effective way to help keep your locks looking their best. My favorite electrolytes are LMNT and Pique B T Fountain.
- Supplements: Mary Ruth’s Organics Liquid Multivitamin is my current daily multivitamin + hair growth supplement. I like having a liquid vitamin because your body is more easily able to absorb it. I also take a lot of other supplements so having this helps cut down on swallowing pills. Other noteworthy supplements I’ve tried are Nutrafol and Divi Hair Vitamins, both highly rated in the hair growth community. Depending on your specific needs, one of these might be a better fit.
Hair Growth Routine
Now, about my routine—it’s not super rigid. I don’t have a set schedule because my hair care depends on what’s going on in my life. For example, if I’m working out or planning to hit the pool, I might adjust when I wash my hair and revolve everything around hair washing because it’s the most time-consuming. So here is how I have been approaching things:
- Before washing: I’ll oil my scalp either the night before or a few hours before. I try to oil before every wash if possible.
- On non-wash days: I use a non-oily scalp serum to keep my scalp healthy.
- If I’m short on time after a workout: I’ll blow-dry the sweat back into my hair and use dry shampoo to freshen up.
- Microneedling: I started with once/week for the first month and now microneedle twice a week. I always do this after washing with a clean dry scalp and finish the process with a non-oily scalp serum.
At first, I felt really overwhelmed with all the advice out there. So here’s my advice to you as you start:
Start with the basics and build from there.
For me, I have found the most important things to be microneedling, hair oil, scalp serum, hair mask, and hair growth supplements. Everything else—like the pillowcase, heat cap, dry shampoo, and a hair dryer — while they make a difference, I would consider them secondary and great things to add in as you become more invested in your hair growth journey.
The Cliff Notes Version
As I continue on my hair growth journey, I’ll continue sharing my results and updating you on new products that I like. I know this is a lot of information and that starting a hair growth journey can feel overwhelming, especially with so much advice coming from all directions.
But honestly, you don’t need a ton of products to see results. Here’s how I’d recommend getting started plus my favorite product pick for each category:
- Invest in a micro-needling tool: This has been a game changer for me! THIS ONE
- Choose an oil: Use it to nourish your scalp and ends, especially before washing your hair. THIS ONE
- Pick a hair mask: Add this to your routine for deep conditioning. THIS ONE
- Get a non-oily scalp serum: Perfect for days when you’re not washing your hair. THIS ONE
- Take hair growth vitamins: A simple, no-brainer addition to support your hair from the inside out. THIS ONE
REMEMBER – consistency is key. Try to do at least one thing for your scalp or hair every day, even if it’s something small like a scalp. massage before bed.
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