Bands are not the problem. Staying with the same band for months is the problem. The point is to teach the groove, build confidence at the top, and then back assistance down on purpose.
A strong row and a healthier grip also move the pull-up forward faster than doing random assisted reps forever.
Progression that actually works
Reduce help slowly enough that form stays honest.
- Stay with one assistance level until the reps look the same from first to last.
- Use rows and grip work to support the pattern instead of only doing more pull-ups.
- Keep the band work tidy. Swinging through bad reps just teaches bad timing.