Hair grows on average 1 to 1.5 cm per month, which equals about 12 to 18 cm per year. The exact growth rate depends on genetics, nutrition, scalp health, stress levels, and overall hair care. To support faster and healthier growth, maintain a balanced diet, massage the scalp regularly, avoid excessive heat styling, and trim split ends to prevent breakage.
If you’re trying to grow your hair longer, you’ve probably wondered: How long does hair grow in a month? On average, human hair grows about 1 to 1.5 centimeters (around 0.5 inches) per month. This means most people see around 12 to 18 centimeters (5–7 inches) of growth per year. However, the exact rate can vary depending on genetics, health, hair care routine, and lifestyle.
In this article, we’ll break down how hair growth works, what affects growth speed, and how you can support faster and healthier hair growth.
How Hair Growth Works
Hair grows through a natural cycle with three main phases:
1. Anagen (Growth Phase)
- Lasts 2–7 years.
- This is when your hair is actively growing.
- The longer your anagen phase, the longer your hair can grow.
2. Catagen (Transition Phase)
- Lasts about 2–3 weeks.
- Hair stops growing and detaches from the blood supply.
3. Telogen (Resting Phase)
- Lasts about 3 months.
- Hair falls out and new hair begins to form underneath.
Most of your hair (about 90%) is in the anagen phase at any given time.
Average Hair Growth Per Month
Time PeriodAverage Growth1 Week~0.25–0.35 cm1 Month1–1.5 cm (0.5 inches)1 Year12–18 cm (5–7 inches)
Some people naturally grow hair faster or slower depending on genetics and hormonal balance.
What Affects Hair Growth Speed?
1. Genetics
Your genes determine how long your hair can grow and how quickly.
2. Nutrition
Hair needs protein, iron, zinc, vitamins A, C, D, and Biotin to stay healthy and grow.
3. Stress & Sleep
High stress and lack of sleep can slow growth and increase shedding.
4. Hair & Scalp Care
A clean, healthy scalp promotes strong hair growth. Build-up, harsh chemicals, and heat damage can slow progress.
5. Health Conditions
Hormonal changes, thyroid issues, and nutrient deficiencies can affect hair growth.
Tips to Help Hair Grow Faster
1. Maintain a Healthy Diet
Focus on:
- Lean protein (chicken, fish, eggs, tofu)
- Leafy greens
- Nuts & seeds
- Fresh fruits
2. Massage Your Scalp
A daily 3–5 minute scalp massage boosts blood circulation and stimulates hair follicles.
3. Avoid Excess Heat Styling
Straighteners, curlers, and hot blow-drying can damage hair and slow growth.
4. Trim Split Ends Regularly
Trimming doesn’t make hair grow faster — but it prevents breakage, helping your hair look longer and healthier.
5. Use Gentle, Moisturizing Hair Products
Avoid harsh shampoos with sulfates and alcohols.
How to Know If Your Hair Growth Is Normal
Your hair growth is likely normal if:
- You see around 1 cm per month
- You are not experiencing clumps of shedding
- Hair feels strong and smooth
If hair is thinning rapidly or growing very slowly, consider checking:
- Vitamin levels (especially iron and vitamin D)
- Stress and sleep habits
- Hair care products
Frequently Asked Questions
Does hair grow faster if you cut it?
No — but trimming prevents split ends, which stops breakage and keeps hair healthy.
Does age affect hair growth?
Yes. Hair tends to grow slower as we age due to hormonal changes.
Can supplements help?
Supplements like Biotin, Zinc, and Omega-3 may support hair strength — but only if you’re deficient.
Conclusion
So, how long does hair grow in a month?
On average, about 1–1.5 cm per month, but this varies based on genetics, health, and lifestyle. With the right care — healthy diet, gentle hair products, reduced heat damage, and regular scalp massages — you can support stronger, healthier hair growth over time.