When it comes to beauty, it’s easy to get bombarded with the countless tips, reviews, and studies floating on the web—especially in the realm of curly hair care. Before spending money on invasive treatments like platelet-rich plasma therapy and micro-needling, I’ve resorted to more economically feasible alternatives like scalp serums, scrubs, oils, massagers, etc. to help stimulate my follicles and aid in healthy hair growth.

Searching for effective solutions to grow hair faster is no easy task and is something I will continue to do for years to come but so far, these simple low-cost treatments and tools have helped me feel like I’m doing right by my hair.  

Scalp Massager

I’ve been using Briogeo’s SCALP Revival Stimulating Therapy Massager for almost two years. The hand-held massager promotes the stimulation of hair follicles on the scalp and in my opinion, is a relaxing way to end your wash session (hello, self-care!). After applying shampoo, oil, or conditioning treatment, gently press the massager’s rubber tips to the scalp with medium pressure and massage. On the instruction box, it says to avoid large circular motions to prevent tangling or your hair will be left resembling a bird’s nest (my words, not theirs). 

Although I only use it for a couple of seconds—the massager is supposed to be used for several minutes to reap the reward of healthier hair—the experience is soothing and helps me relax, thus reducing stress and possibly preventing further hair loss. It’s also great for flaky, dry scalps!

Scalp Scrub

I’ve recently been trying different scrubs due to a pimple that has sprouted from my scalp. The cantankerous little fella won’t disappear no matter how many times I’ve tried to squeeze it (I know…bad idea.)

This situation has revived my search for an effective scrub that is good for the scalp and for the hair. I’ve recently been using Viviscal’s exfoliating scalp scrub. This unique scrub includes ingredients like biotin, keratin, marine collagen, and seaweed extract. My scalp feels invigorated after using it and any buildup accrued during the week is swept away. 

Hair Oil

I’ve never found a good use for hair oil until now. The key, is to use small amounts or risk weighing the curls down. I mainly use oil to moisturize my ends and to encourage hair growth.

Since using Mielle’s Rosemary Mint Scalp & Hair Strengthening Oil once a day at night for several months, I’ve seen a difference in thinning spots, although not enough to ditch my upcoming appointment to see a dermatologist. A previous dermatologist had me on a topical corticosteroid, but it didn’t give me the results I was looking for.

Mielle’s oil is infused with Rosemary, Mint, and Biotin and claims to nourish hair follicles. Instead of applying the ointment with the included dropper, I saturate a Q-tip and dab on the areas that need extra help.

Dry Shampoo

My hair is on the drier, brittle side, so the only reason I would pick up a dry shampoo is if I’ve overused a leave-in product, or applied too much oil to my ends, leaving them overly saturated. There are countless dry shampoos out on the market, with various ingredients that can absorb oil, dirt, and product buildup, such as this one from Ouia with volcanic minerals. 

A dry shampoo deters me from overwashing my thin hair, which can lead to further damage and means more water saved! My thin strands are hard to detangle in the shower and usually lead to breakage (eek!) so I usually try to keep my wash days down to twice a week. If for some reason I need to squeeze in another wash day, I try to use a dry shampoo instead. But beware… overusing dry shampoo can lead to an itchy scalp when used too often.