I’ve always dreamed of having Rapunzel-like hair. I’m happy to say that I’ve finally gotten to the point where I had to cut my hair, not because of split ends or just to freshen it up, but because it was just too plain long. Getting my hair to this point took a lot of research and trial and error. While I’m not a hair expert, I’ve finally found what really works for me, and I’d like to share it with you!

1. First and foremost, know that everyone’s hair is different.

I personally have hair that is very thick, straight and grows extremely fast. These are three things that I don’t have much control over but am very fortunate to have. I would be wary of any products that claim to make your hair thicker or grow faster, instead focus on keeping your hair as healthy as possible!

2. Be patient!

It may seem like it’s taking forever for your hair to grow or for it to show results, but remember that hair takes time. On average, hair only grows about a half inch per month. It may take a few months to see progress!

3. Use a wide-toothed comb instead of a brush.

This is my go-to tip when people ask how I maintain my hair. Yes, it takes a little longer, but it is so worth it! Especially if your hair is wet. When your hair is wet, it stretches and a brush can actually break your hair at random intervals, causing frizz and split ends. I used to have random little hairs that stuck out of my roots and this has reduced those significantly!

4. Use a leave-in conditioner.

I can always tell when I forgot to use leave-conditioner when my hair dries. It’s harder to work with and just feels a little stiff overall. After I shower, I comb my hair (I also comb my hair when I am rinsing out my conditioner in the shower), and then spray in leave-in conditioner on the bottom half of my hair and comb that through as well. My favorite leave-in conditioners are Not Your Mother’s and John Frieda, both available at Wal-Mart and Target. A bottle of either will last me a few months. I only use it on damp hair, it makes my hair a little sticky if I use it when my hair is dry. Sometimes I will use a few drops of Argon Oil for some extra nourishment, probably about once a week.

5. Vitamins make a difference!

Did you know that some people’s hair completely stops growing at a certain point? It has a limit. If you wait months and don’t gain any length, this might be why. (This is also why getting trims is a good idea, it allows your roots to grow and refresh.) For me, my stopping point was right at my belly button. Then I started taking multivitamins daily. Just regular gummy multivitamins. And my hair started to grow longer and longer. Your hair reflects your overall health. As an avid hater of vegetables, I was missing out on a few key vitamins. I’ve had my hair grow four inches past my belly button (that’s where I threw in the towel and got it cut, it probably would’ve kept growing, though.) I have not tried any of the hair, skin, and nails vitamins, but if you know that you are getting plenty of vitamins overall, those may be the extra push your hair needs.

6. Avoid heat when you can.

Everyone knows that heat can damage your hair. You don’t need to ditch it totally, but try to limit it when you can. I never blow dry my hair because it takes at least half an hour for me and I just don’t like to. So, I shower at night instead and let it dry while I sleep. This may make for some funky hairdos to wake up to, but it works better for me. I love curling my hair though and that takes a lot of heat, so I make sure to use a heat protectant spray. Right now, I’m using an older bottle of Matrix’s heat protectant spray. Once I run out, I think I would like to try a cheaper alternative like Not Your Mother’s. This helps keep your hair from taking the full impact of the heat and can make it easier to style. If you get the chance, though, try to work in days that you go heatless- whether that be a no style, braid, pony, or bun day. Your hair will thank you!

7. Frizzy hair? Ditch the towel.

I was really surprised to learn that traditional terry cloth towels can break your hair. Those are the ones with the little threads that stick up to make it soft and absorbent. If you towel dry your hair, those threads can catch your hairs and break them! Instead, use a microfiber towel OR a t-shirt! Yup. A t-shirt. It works beautifully.

8. Wash when you need to.

My hair takes two regular days to get greasy. I try not to wash it before it gets greasy because I have dyed hair and want it to last as long as possible. Everyone’s scalps release natural oils that your hair and scalp need to stay moisturized. If I can go three lazy days without washing my hair, I try to. Pay attention to your hair and see how long you really need to go without washing (if you aren’t getting sweaty during the day!)

9. Your hair can change!

I’ve mentioned many times how everyone’s hair is different and here’s another reminder. Pay attention to what seems to work for you and your hair. I used to need pretty regular trims to get rid of split ends (which will work their way up if you ignore them) but when I started paying attention to my hair and taking better care of it. I hardly find split ends anymore. I only cut my hair once or twice a year now. Split ends are no joke, but they can disappear over time!

10. LOVE YOUR HAIR

Your hair is an amazing part of your body. It keeps you warm, allows you to individualize yourself, and it continues to grow! Your hair isn’t something permanent like much of your body, it grows and changes. You also have a lot of control over it- you can cut, color, and style it to show who you really are. Truly an amazing part of your body that deserves some love!

I hope that these tips can help you get Rapunzel-like hair too!