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For some lucky people, growing their hair out is as easy as skipping a few trips to the hairdresser.
But for others, it’s not quite so simple.
Rather than the actual growth rate itself being the problem, what’s happening to your hair as it grows could be affecting its ability to reach its full potential.
As Faye Purcell, head of research and development at Q+A, explained: “Often, it’s not slow growth at the root – it’s what’s happening along the way.”
So, if your hair isn’t growing the way you’d like it to, Purcell said one of these common problems could very well be the culprit…
1) Damage
Bleaching, tight hairstyles, using heat, and even brushing roughly can all weaken the hair’s cuticle and take as much as 40% of your hair’s tensile strength.
To help keep this from happening, Purcell advised: “When it comes to brushing, start at the ends and gently work your way upwards in short, slow strokes.
“And always use a heat-protecting product before you reach for any hot styling tool, as it helps to create a protective barrier on hair; minimising damage, preventing moisture loss, boosting strength, and reducing frizz.”
2) A lack of nutrients
If your body is lacking in certain nutrients, then your hair is just one of the things that can be impacted.
“Deficiencies in iron, zinc, biotin, or vitamin D can push follicles into the ‘resting’ (teleogen) phase and slow new growth,” said Purcell. “Eating a well-balanced diet or rainbow foods can help keep hair strong, shiny, and healthy.
“In some cases, you might want to look at supplement support. Always consult your GP before supplementing – it only helps if you’re truly deficient.”
3) Stress
Stress can have a huge knock-on effect on so many aspects of our overall health and wellness, and our hair is certainly not immune.
Purcell said: “Chronic stress elevates cortisol and inflammatory mediators that can prematurely shift follicles from the ‘growth’ (anagen) phase to the resting phase.
“Finding ways to lower stress – even things as simple as ensuring you get enough sleep, gentle exercise, mindfulness, or incorporating regular scalp massage – can help rebalance cortisol levels and stimulate the scalp to support healthier, steadier growth over time.”
4) Hormonal imbalances
Hormonal fluctuations also have a big part to play in your hair’s growth and shedding.
“Higher levels of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) can shorten the growth phase,” said Purcell, “while thyroid dysfunction or lower oestrogen levels can disrupt the hair growth cycle and reduce overall density.
“For this issue, it’s always best to speak with your GP or a qualified healthcare professional for tailored advice.”
5) Scalp inflammation
If you’re not incorporating scalp care into your haircare routine, perhaps it’s time to get started.
“An imbalance in your scalp’s microbiome can interfere with normal hair growth,” Purcell pointed out.
“Overgrowth of microbes like malassezia (commonly linked with dandruff) or certain bacteria can trigger local inflammation, reduce the activity of hair-growing cells, and shift follicles from the growth phase into the resting phase.
“Using gentle, clarifying products can help restore balance. Look for formulas with salicylic acid to exfoliate build-up, keep pores clear, and for prebiotics to calm irritation.”
