Which is why we want to share everything we’ve learned about growing out short hair, plus how to style it during those in-between stages. Below, you’ll find a bank of hairstylist tips and tricks. Of course, if your strands are dry, brittle, and frayed, that could slow the growth quite substantially. That said, a key component of growing out short hair is to help strengthen the hair you have. Now, the occasional blow-dry won’t blow all your progress (just make sure you always incorporate a thermal protectant), but if you’re partial to heat styling each and every day, you might want to cut back and give your hair a break. Branch agrees: “Air-dry is the best dry,” she notes. Think box braids, flat twists, jumbo cornrows, and so much more; just remember to switch out the braids every two to three weeks (this prevents hair breakage, says Branch) and make sure they aren’t pulled too tightly—chronic too-tight hairstyles can lead to traction alopecia, a medical condition that causes hair loss. That said, make sure you’re cleansing the scalp as needed, with a good shampoo. The specific products may vary, depending on your scalp type (some have drier scalps in need of moisture, others have oily scalps prone to buildup), but everyone needs a gentle wash on the regular. But according to Stenson, you may want to choose a regular trim, as it can keep awkward phases to a minimum. “By regularly trimming up the neckline and keeping it manicured for the first few months, [clients] are able to then grow their hair beyond the one length bob with fewer awkward stages,” Stenson says. It sounds a bit counterintuitive—shouldn’t growing out your hair require fewer trims?—but consider it a necessary tuneup for healthy, even growth. O’Connor is also partial to fun hairpieces for transitioning hair, like embellishments and bold headbands. She’s also on board with switching up your part: “Side parts are always chic on short hair, regardless of its straight or curly,” she adds.
