Hi Buttalips!! Welcome!!
First thing is to decide what type hair you have. You said you had brittle hair, which may be type 4b. Many of us have two types of hair. Me, I have 80% 4a, 20% 4b. Do you have thin hair, thick hair?
Then decide what you want to do with your hair. You said you want to grow it. Do you want to grow it natural, relaxed, texlaxed? Growing hair starts with learning how to retain the length. Retaining the length involves getting your hair in a healthy condition. There are lots of methods to retain length.
Next, determine what your hair is doing. Breaking? Brittle? Ends crunchy? Whatever your hair is doing, it's most likely listed here
http://www.longhaircareforum.com/showthread.php?t=108195 and discussed.
One of the most challenging things I found was searching what worked on my hair. I started by looking around at the ladies' Fokti's. I found many with my hair type and started there. They're also a source of inspiration.
Keep in mind that just because one product or method works on one person's hair, doesn't mean that it will work on yours. For example, I wash my hair 3 times a week. Others' hair thrives on limited moisture, washing once every other week. Some use heat, others refuse to use it.
As far as products go, I started on the inexpensive end with shampoo & conditioner. For frequent washings, I use Suave Tropical Coconut and added honey for extra moisture.
Search around the boards, and see what others have done. I still do that and get ideas & insight. You'll find varying opinions on products and regimens. You'll find the answers. This is a wonderful, supportive place. Be sure to visit that link above.
Hope that helps!
ETA: This is not all-inclusive, just a sample of how I got started.
