I know I’m not the only person in the world to ever get a bad haircut–but it sure does feel like you’re alone in the experience when you look in the mirror that first time. And the time after that, and after that, and every single time after until it grows out.

Last year, I found myself in the all too familiar bad haircut scenario. But it was worse than just a few snips too many: my hair’s very structure was destroyed. Here are a few pictures of what I mean, if you don’t believe how bad it was:

Yikes! I’d asked for shoulder-length layers and curtain bangs, but I was left with an uneven chin-length bob. I was thankful my job at the time was remote, and I could wear a hat to school, but I was still mortified and uncomfortable with my new look, even after my Mom’s friend kindly fixed it up for me so at least it was even.

I had to find a solution–and fast. I thought about extensions, or dye, or even a wig, but I also had the goal of growing out my locks ahead of my wedding. So what was there left to do?

My answer was simple: a hair growth mask. I tried a bunch of different recipes that I’d found online, but there was only one formula that I found made a tangible difference in my hair’s length, texture, and shine–and I’m excited to share it with you!

Ultimate Hair Growth Mask

Note: This oil mask doesn’t have the exact same ingredients as Mielle or any other brand, but it’s the formula I ended up finding success with after playing around with ratios. This may need adjusting for your hair type, length, and scalp sensitivity. Always test your sensitivity to essential oils before use and dilute properly.

Ingredients

• 1-3 tablespoons Olive oil
• 4 drops Rosemary essential oil
• 3 drops Peppermint essential oil
• 1-2 drops Lavender essential oil
• 1-2 drops Lemon essential oil (optional, for additional shine or scent)
• 1-2 drops Orange essential oil (optional, for additional moistruizing or scent)

Process

Step 1: Scalp Care

Before applying anything, exfoliate your scalp and get the blood pumping with a scalp brush on your dry hair. Be gentle, and use a circular motion.

Step 2: Mix It All Up

Get a small bowl, add your olive oil–you may need more or less, depending on personal preference–and put in your drops of essential oil.

Step 3: Apply and Wait

Use your fingertips to apply the oil mask directly to your scalp, not your hair. Don’t over-apply, just put enough to cover your scalp. Massage in with your fingertips. Wait 15 minutes or so, but never longer than 30.

Step 4: Shower and Rinse

In the shower, double-cleanse your hair with shampoo until your scalp feels oil-free. Proceed with showering and styling as usual. Repeat this process at least one to two times per week.

That’s it! Just any old olive oil you have laying around, and a few essential oils. I was skeptical, but quickly convinced within the first few weeks, when I saw tangible length and fullness added to my hair.

For a comparison, here’s my hair in May, less than a year after The Haircut:

Much better! I hope that this recipe can help someone else out there–let me know in the comments if it works out for you!