How to Grow Out Short, Thick, Wavy Hair Without Losing Your Mind

If you’ve ever tried growing out short, thick, wavy hair, you probably know it isn’t as simple as just letting it grow. Weird layers pop up, frizz refuses to leave, and those awkward in-between lengths can test your patience. But here’s the thing: with the right tips and a little know-how, you can skip the stress and keep your hair looking and feeling good the whole way through.

The first thing you need? Understanding your hair type. Thick, wavy hair won’t behave like straight or even fine hair. It needs extra moisture, smart detangling, and a hands-off approach sometimes to avoid damage. Are you washing your hair every day? You might want to slow down. Try washing two or three times a week instead. This helps keep your natural oils in check and stops your hair from drying out.

Products matter. You wouldn’t use generic shampoo on a tattoo—your hair is no different. Swap out harsh shampoos for gentle, sulfate-free ones. Thick hair loves a deep conditioner. Even better, add a leave-in treatment once or twice a week. When you towel dry, don’t rub your hair like you’re trying to start a fire; just blot gently. It really does make a difference in fighting frizz and breakage.

As awkward as it sounds, regular trims are your best friend. Chopping your hair when you’re trying to grow it might seem nuts, but snipping off split ends stops breakage in its tracks. Stylists recommend a trim every 8-10 weeks to keep your hair healthy as it grows—especially if you’re dealing with thick waves that tangle easy.

Don’t go at it alone. Use a wide-tooth comb, especially after showering. Forget tiny brushes that pull and tear. Starting from the tips and working up is always easier on your hair and way less stressful for you.

One area people forget is taking care of your scalp. A happy scalp equals better hair growth. Massage it gently when you wash your hair—maybe even treat yourself to a lightweight, scalp-friendly oil. Nothing fancy needed, just a few minutes to boost blood flow and wake up those follicles helps a lot.

Feeling stuck at those awkward stages? Change up your look with headbands, hair clips, or loose buns. Accessories can turn a bland hair day around without stressing your strands. And if your hair’s thick and heavy, try sleeping with it in a loose braid to avoid knots by morning.

Finally—patience. Growing out thick, wavy hair takes time. You might get frustrated, but stick with your routine. Take before-and-afters to see real progress. With the right care, the hair you want is totally possible, even if it has a mind of its own!