How to Thicken Thinning Hair
Anyone can experience hair loss. However, you can take measures to thicken your hair through a healthier diet, hair masks and styling techniques.
Thinning hair isn't a condition restricted to men — both sexes can experience hair loss, and it can be difficult for anyone to grapple with. Thinning hair could be the results of the natural aging process, poor nutrition, reactions to chemicals in products or illness, but it's most likely genetic.
It's impossible, unfortunately, to change the texture of your hair follicles, but you can take measures to make hair appear thicker, as well as to reduce hair breakage, which can also contribute to thinning. First, though, take a deep breath and calm down—stress is just one more cause of thinning hair.
Read more: Hair Loss in Women Under 30
Raid the Kitchen
Everyone's hair and scalp will respond differently to home remedies for thinning hair, but homemade hair masks are worth a try (provided that you're not allergic to any of the ingredients.
- Avocado hair mask: Avocados are rich in vitamin E, which might help with thin hair. Mix together the flesh of one avocado with a tablespoon of olive oil, which are rich in omega-3 fatty acids—essential to hair health. Apply the combo to your hair and scalp, and let it rest for about 30 minutes. Rinse with a mild shampoo.
- Olive oil mask: You could simply use olive oil on your hair one to two times a week. Make sure the olive oil is at body temperature, and then massage it into your scalp and hair. Leave it in for 30 to 45 minutes, and then rinse it out with mild shampoo.
- Egg mask: Strong hair relies on protein, of which eggs have plenty. Beat one to two eggs, and then apply it to your scalp and hair. Leave it on your head for 30 minutes, and then rinse out with mild shampoo.
Clean Up Your Diet
Thinning hair or hair loss might be indicative of poor eating habits. In an attempt to thicken your hair, incorporate nutrient-rich foods into your diet. This might include:
- Salmon, as it's high in both omega-3 fatty acids and protein
- Eggs, also a source of both omega-3s and protein, as well as iron
- Greek yogurt, a rich source of protein
- Almonds, a good source of vitamin E
- Legumes, such as beans and lentils, which are rich in protein
If possible, incorporate these foods into your diet every day, though even just three to four times a week may help with thicker hair.
Stock Up on the Right Products
Certain hair products are better than others for thickening hair. Look for products that contain parsley extract, which stimulates hair growth and increases blood flow to the scalp. Other useful ingredients include biotin, linseed oil and vitamin B.
However, stay away from products that contain Sodium Laurel Sulfate, which strips hair of its essential oils, as well as sodium chloride, which can encourage hair loss by causing a dry, itchy scalp.
Fake It Until You Make It
As you work toward thickening your hair, style it in a manner that hides its thinness. Getting highlights can make hair look thicker, and volumizing products such as mousses can temporarily plump up your hair shaft by adding technique. Stay away from oils and smoothing products, as those can weight down hair, which decreases volume.
Read more: Is Hair Thinning From Stress Permanent?