If you have thin hair, you know the struggle of trying to create volume that lasts, finding the right accessories that don’t damage, and styling in ways that make your hair appear fuller. The good news? There are plenty of ways to work with what you’ve got and elevate your hair game! From the best hair colors to volumizing tools, we’ve rounded up the top tips to give your thin hair a major glow-up.
BEFORE
As you can see, my hair is so damaged, for several reasons. I wasn’t getting my ends trimmed. I was setting my hair tools on a temperature that was damaging my ends, and I was not being consistent with my hair supplements. No worries though, once I pinpointed the problems, thanks to my visit with April and Eva Salon, I got my hair back on track and it is healthier than ever. My after image is below!
How to Care for Thin Hair
Caring for thin hair requires a gentle approach to maintain its health and prevent breakage. Follow these tips to keep your locks in top condition:
- Choose Gentle Shampoos and Conditioners: Opt for lightweight, sulfate-free products that won’t weigh your hair down. Look for formulas designed to add volume and strengthen strands. I really like Pureology for volumizing shampoo and conditioner.
- Choose a Light and Flexible Hair Spray: I love the Davines This is a Medium Hair Spray for natural-looking hairstyles with long-lasting hold. I also love that it is easy to work with and brush out without loosing your style.This is the ultimate flexible hair spray. Oh, and it smells incredible as well.
- Limit Heat Styling: Overusing hot tools can cause damage. When you do use them, apply a heat protectant and keep the temperature low. I was setting my curing iron to 410 and as you can see in my before and after photos, I totally fried my hair. For thin hair, you should not set your hair tools to higher than 350. I like the Calista StyleDryer for the ultimate voluminous blow out.
- Be Careful When Wet: Hair is most vulnerable when wet. Use a microfiber towel to gently pat dry, and avoid vigorous rubbing. I also like to use the AMIKA Wizard detangler and Wet Brush.
- Regular Trims: Keep split ends at bay with frequent trims. Healthy ends make hair appear fuller. This is essential!
- Scalp Care: A healthy scalp is the foundation for healthy hair. Massage your scalp regularly to stimulate circulation and use products that promote scalp health. I use DE|RIVE Daily Support Scalp Serum for stimulating growth around my hair line. This product is perfect for thin hair because it isn’t oily at all. You can order this product via phone from McDonald Murrmann Center for Wellness and Health. I also love Nutrafol Supplements for hair growth.
- Avoid Overwashing: Washing too often can strip your hair of natural oils. Aim for 2-3 times a week and use dry shampoo in between if needed. Oddly enough, most dry shampoos make my hair oily by the end of the day. The only dry shampoos that tends to do the trick without making me oily is Dove.
Pro Tip: Sleep on a silk or satin pillowcase to reduce friction and minimize breakage overnight.
Shop My Favorite Hair Products
Davines Hair Spray
Medium, flexible hold for thin hair
Pureology Shampoo
Volumizing shampoo for fine hair
Pureology Conditioner
Volumizing Conditioner for fine hair
Calista StyleDryer
Blow out your hair and add volume at the same time
AMIKA Detangler
minimize breakage while brushing wet hair
WetBrush
Brush made for brushing through tangles
Nutrafol
Supplementgs for rapid hair growth
DE|RIVE Scalp Serum
Target hair growth by applying directly to scalp
Best Hair Colors for Thin Hair
Choosing the right hair color can make a world of difference for thin hair. Here’s why hair color matters:
- Multidimensional Colors: Highlights, balayage, and lowlights add depth, making hair appear fuller and more textured. Opt for subtle transitions between shades to avoid a flat look.
- Lighter Hues: Blonde, honey, or caramel tones reflect light and give the illusion of volume.
- Strategic Placement: Ask your stylist to focus lighter tones around the crown and face for a lifting effect.
Pro Tip: Use color-safe, volumizing shampoos and conditioners to keep your new hue vibrant while adding extra body.
AFTER
April cut off all the dead ends, which meant I had to go a little shorter than usual. I actually like the short look. We also added depth to my crown and under layers while lightening up the ends and framing the face with highlights as well.
Best Hair Ties for Thin Hair
Not all hair ties are created equal, especially for thin hair. Traditional elastics can cause breakage and unnecessary stress. Instead, try these options:
- Silk Scrunchies: Gentle on hair and reduce friction, preventing breakage.
- Coil Hair Ties: These spiral designs hold hair securely without tugging or leaving creases.
- Soft Elastics: Look for snag-free options that glide smoothly through your hair.
Pro Tip: Always avoid tying your hair too tightly. Loose, low ponytails or buns are stylish and safer for your strands.
Shop Hair Accessories
Best Hair Extensions for Thin Hair
Extensions are a game-changer for adding volume to thin hair, but choosing the right type is crucial:
- Clip-In Extensions: Perfect for occasional use, these are easy to apply and remove without causing damage.
- Tape-In Extensions: Lightweight and natural-looking, they blend seamlessly with thin hair when installed by a professional.
- Halo Extensions: These sit comfortably on your head without attaching to your natural hair, making them the gentlest option.
Pro Tip: Invest in high-quality human hair extensions for a more natural look and feel, and use a sulfate-free shampoo to maintain them.
Volumizing Hair Tools for Thin Hair
The right tools can take your hair from flat to fabulous in no time. Here are the must-haves:
- Volumizing Brushes: Round brushes with boar bristles are ideal for adding lift at the roots.
- Root-Lifting Sprays: Apply to damp hair before blow-drying for instant volume.
- Hot Air Brushes: Combine the power of a blow dryer with the styling capability of a round brush to create bouncy, full locks.
- Lightweight Curling Irons: Opt for irons with adjustable heat settings to avoid damaging your thin strands.
- Here are some more of my favorite volumizing hair tools
Pro Tip: Use a texturizing powder or dry shampoo at the roots for an extra boost between washes.
Final Thoughts
Thin hair doesn’t have to mean limited styling options. With the right hair color, gentle accessories, volumizing tools, and extensions, you can create gorgeous, full-looking styles that last. Embrace your hair’s natural beauty and experiment with these tips to find what works best for you.
Have a go-to tip or product for thin hair? Share it in the comments below! Don’t forget to bookmark this guide for all your hair care needs, and let’s keep those thin locks looking thick and fabulous!
Please Note: I always strive to provide accurate and helpful information, but just a quick heads-up—I’m a blogger, not a doctor, lawyer, CPA, or any other kind of certified professional. I’m here to share my experiences and insights, but please make sure to use your own judgment and consult the right professionals when needed.
Also, I accept monetary compensation through affiliate links, advertising, guest posts, and sponsored partnerships on this site, however I am very particular about the products I endorse and only do so when I am truly a fan of the quality and result of the product.
