There are a handful of things that always feel like they take way longer than anything else in life: the time between your favourite show's finale and the next season's premiere; the month of January; and, unfortunately, the time it takes to grow out your hair [1] when you hate your new haircut [2] (or just really wish it were longer).

While the exact length of time for the latter varies from person to person — and depends on a wide range of factors, like your overall health, age, diet, and genetics — the American Academy of Dermatology reports that, on average, you can expect your hair to grow up to six inches a year [3]. If you break it down, that's about half-an-inch per month. It might not seem like much, but there are a few steps you can take to help rev up growth [4].

First, know that there is no one-size-fits-all solution and instead focus on what you can control. Minimise excess brushing to avoid hair breakage, give yourself a scalp massage to improve circulation and stimulate hair follicles, and consider the foods you eat. "Raw fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats are superfoods for hair growth [5]," hairstylist Christine Neos [6] previously told POPSUGAR. "These are wholesome foods providing the most nutrition for your body, surplussing in the proper nutrition for healthy, long hair."

According to dermatologist Timm Golueke [7], MD, the antioxidants in vitamin E can also help improve circulation throughout your body, so consider applying it topically on your scalp before bed to stimulate blood-flow and growth. And of course, if you think your hair is growing at a less-than-normal rate, talk to your dermatologist about any potential health concerns so they can help find the most optimal solution for you.