I Ignore One Hair Rule — Here’s Why My Hair Still Grows Long

 

I’ve got waist-length hair, and I get asked all the time, “How did you grow it so long?” Honestly, it’s not about doing everything perfectly. I don’t follow every rule, and I actually ignore one piece of advice you hear all the time — and my hair is healthier than ever.

These are the five habits that genuinely made the biggest difference for me.

1. Hair Oiling — My Nightly Habit

If there’s one thing I’m consistent with, it’s oiling my hair. I use rosemary oil most nights and apply a small amount to the mid-lengths and ends before bed. It keeps my hair soft, helps reduce breakage, and stops my ends from feeling dry — especially when your hair gets longer and more fragile over time.

A little goes a long way. You’re nourishing, not soaking.

2. Brushing Wet Hair — Yes, I Break This Rule

Everyone says not to brush wet hair — but for my curls, brushing dry causes far more breakage. My hair responds better when it’s wet and well-conditioned. I use a gentle brush and take my time, starting from the ends and working upward.

If your hair is curly or tangles easily, brushing while wet can actually be kinder than forcing a brush through dry knots.

3. Silk at Night — Non-Negotiable

Switching to a silk pillowcase or wearing a silk bonnet completely changed my hair. Silk creates far less friction than cotton, which means less breakage, less frizz, and better moisture retention overnight.

I wake up with smoother hair, fewer tangles, and far less styling to do — which matters when you’re trying to grow length without constant damage.

4. Double Cleansing — Shampoo Twice

I always shampoo twice. The first wash removes surface build-up, oil, and dirt. The second actually cleans the scalp properly. This keeps my scalp balanced and helps avoid clogged follicles — which is important if you’re focused on long-term hair growth.

A clean, healthy scalp makes everything else work better.

5. Scalp Stimulation — Don’t Skip It

I use a scalp scrubber a few times a week to gently massage my scalp. It helps lift build-up, improves circulation, and makes treatments more effective.

It only takes a minute, but over time it really adds up.

Growing long, healthy hair isn’t about chasing trends or doing everything at once. It’s about consistency, protecting your hair while you sleep, and choosing habits that actually work for your hair type.

And yes — brushing my hair wet is one rule I’ll happily keep breaking.