If you’re going for long layers, you can start early by having your stylist trim certain parts of your hair shorter than others. Bring in a picture of someone who has the look you want when you go in to get your hair cut. This way you can be sure you and your stylist are on the same page.

Be sure to inform your stylist that you’re in the process of growing out your hair. Once your hair gets to shoulder-length, trims every 3 to 4 months will keep your ends healthy. Other than that you can only wait for it to grow.

Play it up. Is your hair in an awkward in-between stage of growing out? Pretend like this is the way you’ve always wanted it to look. Blow it out, curl it, or wear it natural - own the hair on your head, no matter how it looks. If you wear it with confidence, people will think it’s intentional. Experiment with headbands, bobby pins, and other fun hair accessories to hold back the shorter pieces of hair you’re trying to grow out while looking chic at the same time. Wear a hat. For the days when you wake up and your hair feels all wrong, put on a cute hat to cover it up. Choose a seasonal hat - a cute toboggan during the winter, or a straw hat for the summer.

Wash your hair about three or four times a week. At first your hair might seem oily, but soon your scalp will produce just enough oil to moisturize your hair without overdoing it. Wash your hair with cooler water. Washing with hot water leads to split ends and frizz, while cool water keeps the hair shaft smooth and healthy.

When you get out of the shower, gently squeeze the excess water from your hair, then pat it dry with a soft towel. Don’t rub or massage it; just pat it. Comb your hair with a wide-toothed comb, which is easier on hair than a brush. Work through tangles gently, so you don’t break the hair as you pull through. Let your hair air dry most days. It’s the healthiest way to dry your hair.

If you have finer, straighter hair, blow dry your hair using the cold setting. This is a lot less harsh on your hair, but it can still make your hair look smoother than air drying. Curl your hair without heat. Use the t-shirt method, the sock bun method, or another cool-curling method to curl your hair instead of using a curling iron or hot rollers.

Don’t use shampoo that has sulfates. These industrial cleansers are the same chemicals used in dishwashing detergent, and they do a number on your hair. Get shampoo that is labeled “sulfate-free” or make your own shampoo. Don’t use conditioner and styling products that contain silicone. These build up in you hair, initially adding shine but eventually making it look dull. They can only be washed out with sulfate-containing shampoo, so it’s best to avoid them, too. Don’t get a Brazilian blowout or use other permanent chemical-based treatments.

Drink 8 glasses of water a day. Avoid drinking liquids that make you dehydrated. Get plenty of vitamin B. Found in fruits, vegetables and nuts, this vitamin helps keep hair thick and strong. [8] X Expert Source Shun PittmanMaster Cosmetologist, Global Salon Educator & Author Expert Interview. 14 April 2021. Eat lots of protein. This is the building block for hair, so you need a lot of it. Eat meat, fish, legumes, and leafy greens. Get your omega-3s. These “good” fats keep your hair glossy. Eat salmon, olive oil, nuts, and avocados.