When you're desperate to grow your hair out, you might be tempted to try anything.
But hair experts warn of some common misconceptions that don't actually do anything to improve your hair's length or volume, as well as mistakes that could make the situation worse.
Social media is full of tips, tricks and hacks to boost hair growth, but not all methods are backed by experts.
Trichologist and hairdresser Sophia Emmanuel told the US Sun there are three big misconceptions, and she's here to clear them up.
Myth 1: Cutting your hair makes it grow back faster
Trimming can help eliminate split ends and make your hair look healthier, but it doesn't speed up the rate at which split ends fall out.
“Cutting your hair when you're struggling with hair loss won't make it grow faster,” the V&Co. beauty brand ambassador explained.
“Hair growth is determined by the hair growth cycle.
“Each hair follicle on your head goes through a process of hair growth, shedding, and resting within the follicle.
“This process has nothing to do with the ends of the hairs you cut.”
So while you might not want to cancel your salon appointments, don't expect your hair to miraculously grow in length in the months that follow.
Myth 2: Scalp massage promotes hair growth
It's a very popular tip on TikTok and Instagram, but the evidence to back it up is, well, not great.
A 2015 study found that subjects saw an increase in hair thickness 24 weeks after starting scalp massage, but few other studies have shown similar results.
But that doesn't mean nothing good can happen.
“Scalp massage improves blood flow to the scalp, bringing nutrients and oxygen to the hair follicles and benefiting your hair, but massage alone will not cure hair loss,” says Emanuel.
“Massage alone will not address the underlying cause of hair loss.”
To that end, she urged people to seek professional help.
“Seek the help of a specialist such as a dermatologist or trichologist to find out the underlying cause of your hair loss,” she said.
“Make sure you know your type of hair loss and whether your hair follicles are active.
“Certain types of hair removal can cause scalp irritation, which can lead to permanent hair loss.”
Myth 3: If you shave your hair, it will grow back
Doing this could end up making things worse than they were in the beginning.
“Many people who suffer from alopecia tend to shave their head in the hope that hair will regrow in those bald areas,” Emanuel says.
“You could have alopecia areata or cicatricial alopecia, which may be preventing hair growth in the bald areas.
“In this case, the spots will not grow back because the hair has been shaved.”
So what should you do about thinning hair?
To address hair loss, Emanuel recommends starting by identifying the underlying cause.
“If you notice hair loss, the first thing to do is seek professional help from a dermatologist or trichologist,” she advised.
“This will help us identify the underlying cause of hair loss, the type of hair loss, and solutions that can help.”
She stressed the importance of acting quickly once you notice a problem.
“When you experience hair loss, time is of the essence. It's important to catch hair loss early to increase the chances of saving your hair,” Emanuel said.
To help the hair, she recommended using hair strengthening products.
Emmanuel is a brand ambassador for V&Co. Beauty and is a fan of the brand's Beauty Thickening and Peptide Shampoo, which can be purchased at Target for $8.
She also advised those suffering from hair loss to manage their stress levels.
“It can lead to hair loss due to a deficiency of essential nutrients such as vitamins and minerals that are essential for hair growth,” she explained.
DIY is not allowed
Emanuel also warned against DIY treatments for growth.
“Some people try to solve their hair loss problem by taking measures on their own,” she says.
“While this may be tempting, it can make hair loss worse.
“If you notice any problems with your hair, consult a professional immediately.
“This not only lets your body know if something is wrong, but it also helps protect your hair follicles from irreparable damage.”
Take it easy, ladies.
She also warned against tight ponytails and hair buns, which can lead to traction alopecia.
“Traction alopecia is a type of hair loss that is caused by tight hairstyles,” she explained.
“It tends to affect the hairline and, in some women, the nape area.
“Tight braids, extensions and twists can cause traction alopecia.
“Try to avoid these hairstyles every now and then and in moderation.
“If you feel like your hairstyle is too tight, take the style down immediately.”
Previously, Emmanuel explained the two most common types of hair loss in women and how to deal with them.