How to Slow Down Hair Growth on Head? Techniques for Managing Excessive Growth

WrittenbyDr. Edna Skopljak, M.D.
Last updated

While some people desire faster hair growth, others want to slow it down. But is it possible to safely slow the rate of hair growth on your head?

Table of content
1. How to Slow Down Hair Growth on Head
2. Why Slowing Scalp Hair Growth is Difficult
3. Average Scalp Hair Growth Rate
4. Other Options for Slowing Hair Growth
5. Focus on Healthy Hair Habits
6. The Bottom Line

How to Slow Down Hair Growth on Head

Methods that may help modestly slow down hair growth on the head include staying hydrated, trying topical retinoids, taking oral supplements like silica or MSM, using green tea rinses, getting regular trims, limiting heat styling, keeping hair in protective styles, and using an anti-DHT shampoo. Manage expectations as results will be minimal.

Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of water to keep hair supple and less prone to quick growth. Dehydration can accelerate shedding and regrowth.

Apply Topical Retinoids

Retinoids like retinol may mildly inhibit hair follicle cell production when applied to the scalp.

Take Supplements

Some supplements like silica, MSM, or omega-3s may support slower, stronger keratin for slightly slower growth.

Use Green Tea Rinses

Green tea contains EGCG which may inhibit the enzyme 5-alpha reductase to reduce hair production.

Trim Regularly

Getting frequent trims may remove split ends before they travel up the hair shaft, giving the illusion of slower growth.

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Why Slowing Scalp Hair Growth is Difficult

It's challenging to slow scalp hair growth because:

  • Hair growth cycles are genetically programmed
  • Cutting or weighing down hair doesn't affect the follicle
  • Topical actives have limited ability to penetrate the scalp
  • Hair follicles rapidly regenerate

These factors make it extremely hard to disrupt the hair growth cycle.

Average Scalp Hair Growth Rate

The normal rate of scalp hair growth is:

  • 0.5 inches per month
  • 6 inches per year

This can vary slightly based on age, health, and genetic factors.

Other Options for Slowing Hair Growth

More dramatic methods include:

  • Prescription anti-androgens
  • Laser hair growth inhibition
  • Electrolysis

But these require medical consultation due to potential side effects or discomfort.

Focus on Healthy Hair Habits

Rather than slowing growth, focus on:

  • Gentle, infrequent washing
  • Natural oils and masks
  • Protective yet loose styles
  • Hydration and reduced stress

This supports your optimal personal hair growth rate.

The Bottom Line

While slightly slower hair growth may be possible through oral supplements, topical retinoids, staying hydrated and green tea rinses, dramatic changes are unlikely. Focus on healthy haircare habits instead.

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Dr. Edna Skopljak, M.D.

About the Writer

Edna Skopljak, MD — University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Medicine

Edna Skopljak, MD is a clinical doctor at the University Medical Center Ljubljana and a PhD candidate in Biomedicine at the University of Ljubljana. She combines clinical work with research and medical editing, bringing a clear, evidence-based lens to patient education. Previously, she held roles in the pharmaceutical sector (product management and chief medical officer) and served as a medical production editor for the journal Biomolecules and Biomedicine.

Dr. Skopljak’s publications span clinical topics, including urology and orthopedics. She has co-authored work affiliated with the Department of Orthopedic Surgery at University Medical Centre Ljubljana. She trained in medicine with early clinical experience in Slovenia, reflecting a long-standing focus on practical, patient-facing care.

She strictly follows our Editorial Standards: All medical statements are grounded in authoritative guidelines, FDA labels, and peer-reviewed studies, with clear distinction between approved treatments and adjunctive options.