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Hair Thinning and Grad School Stress: My Story
While I was deep into my graduate studies, I started to notice my hair thinning. I have fine hair, so it didn't take me long to see a difference. At first, I thought I was imagining it—but over time, it became clear. Looking back, I believe it was largely due to stress. Long nights, deadlines, and pressure took a toll not just mentally, but physically too. That’s when I began researching hair care more seriously and trying different products to support healthy growth.

I’ve personally tested the products below, and while I can’t guarantee results for everyone, they made a noticeable difference for me. It took me a few months to see results, so be patient and stay consistent!

1. Stimulate Your Scalp Daily

I started using a Silicone Hair Scalp Massager after seeing Youtuber Laura Lee mention it in one of her videos—and I’m so glad I did. I seemed too simple—and not to say cheap. I looked into it a bit more and some doctors recommended it because it boosts circulation, helps with buildup, and feels like a relaxing head massage. Now it's part of my nightly routine.

2. Nourish From the Inside

According to many doctors, vitamins are another inexpensive way to support hair growth, especially when stress or nutritional gaps may be part of the problem There are so many options out there, but two have worked really well for me. They’re at different price points, and I like to rotate between the two depending on my needs and budget.

• Mary Ruth Multivitamin Multimineral + Hair Growth Vitamins with Lustriva® – rich in biotin, folate, and zinc. Clinically shown to promote thicker, fuller hair in as little as 3 weeks—plus Lustriva® helps improve skin smoothness, fine lines, and wrinkles. Love the mango taste of the liquid vitamines!

• OLLY Undeniable Beauty Gummies—in Grapefruit Glam, with biotin, keratin, and vitamins C & E. They're tasty and easy to stick with!

• You might be wondering why I didn’t mention biotin. That’s because the science around its effectiveness is mixed—especially if you’re not deficient. I recommend checking out Dr. Shereene Idriss’s YouTube video on hair growth, where she breaks down the research behind biotin and explains why she recommends Nutrafol Vegan instead. It’s a must watch if you’re looking for science-backed advice!

3. Regrow With Science

• Rogaine for Women was a key part of my routine. It’s FDA-approved and backed by science—but it only works if you use it regularly. I apply it to certain areas every other day, and it still works very well for me.
  👉 Don’t skip this tutorial from Dr. Sam Illis—it helped me apply it correctly for best results.

Did my hair get better? Sorry I don't have any before and now pics but my hair has definitely improved. Maybe I’ve become more mindful of the products I use, and honestly, life is a lot less stressful now too. I think both seem to have made a real difference.

I hope this was helpful to you! Hair growth does not have to be really complicated & expensive!

👉 Follow me on Pinterest for more everyday beauty tips, honest reviews, and haircare finds.
💇‍♀️ Want more? Check out my What I used on my fine hair for even more product ideas and simple swaps that keep your hair happy year-round.

Disclaimer: These are products I’ve personally used and found helpful. Everyone’s hair and body are different, so I can’t promise the same results for you. Always check with your doctor before starting any new treatment or supplement.

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