If your ponytail feels sparse or you’re seeing more of your scalp than you’d like, chances are you’ve got thin hair. While less density isn’t the worst thing (hey, your hair probably dries super fast), we understand that it can often be challenging to create volume and hold styles.
Luckily, we’ve got some simple, natural hair-thickening hacks that actually work. Whether your hair’s always been thin or has lost oomph over time, here’s how to care for it to add lift, enhance fullness and achieve that fresh-out-of-the-salon look.
First, let’s talk fine hair vs. thin hair
Just to clear things up: thin hair refers to your hair’s overall density—or how many strands of hair you have on your head. It's different from fine hair, which refers to the thickness of a single strand (basically, the texture). You can have fine hair that’s also thin, but not everyone with thin hair has fine strands.
Why does this matter? Because density and texture point to different things when it comes to your haircare needs. Need help figuring out your hair type? Check out this guide for some tips.
Why is my hair thin?
There are many reasons why you might have thin hair, including genetics, lifestyle habits and natural changes in your body. Here’s a breakdown of common causes:
- Genetics: If sparse strands run in your family, chances are you’ll experience them, too.
- Hormonal changes: Pregnancy, menopause and other hormonal shifts can disrupt the hair growth cycle and lead to temporary or permanent thinning.
- Health: Chronic stress, poor diet, nutritional deficiencies and certain medications can trigger excess shedding, which lowers hair density over time.
- Hair styling habits: Regularly wearing tight hairstyles, exposing hair to heat damage, or using harsh chemical treatments can weaken strands—causing breakage and volume loss.
- Aging: As we get older, our hair follicles naturally shrink and eventually stop producing hair, contributing to thinning.
(If you’re noticing significant thinning or hair loss that concerns you, check in with a medical professional.)
How to care for thin hair: hacks to boost volume
1. Use the right shampoo and conditioner.
Volume starts in the shower, so pick products specifically designed for thin hair. Look for lightweight formulas that promote scalp health, boost hair density and create fullness without weighing your strands down.
Ditch heavy, overly moisturizing products that can leave hair flat. When applying conditioner, focus only on the ends to avoid greasy roots.
2. Show your scalp some love.
A healthy scalp = healthy hair. Oil, dead skin and product buildup can create barriers that block growth and volume. To step up your scalp care:
- Switch out your regular shampoo for a gentle clarifying shampoo to deep-cleanse as needed.
- Incorporate a scalp scrub to exfoliate away buildup and create a healthier environment for hair growth.
3. Make mousse (or styling foam) your friend.
Rest assured, modern mousses have come a long way from the crunchy, sticky formulas of the past. Today’s mousses and styling foams are lightweight, volumizing and oh-so-versatile—ideal for lifting limp hair.
4. Reach for sea salt spray.
Sea salt is a natural volume booster, and our Texturizing Sea Salt Spray is the perfect go-to for quick texture and fullness (not to mention effortless beachy vibes).
5. Keep dry shampoo on standby.
This is your secret weapon for keeping the volume up between wash days. Dry shampoo soaks up excess oil, prevents hair from falling flat and gives instant body and bounce. For the best results, use your fingers or a brush to distribute it evenly through your hair.
6. Embrace the air-dry life.
Heat damage can leave already-thin hair frail and limp. Air-drying is a gentle way to protect your strands and maintain their natural texture. Plus, products like our Air Dry Styler help create soft separation and movement for effortless fullness—no heat required.
7. Blow-dry occasionally for a boost.
When done with care (remember your heat protectant!), blow-drying with a round brush can give thin hair serious body. The trick is to lift your hair at the roots with the brush as you dry. For extra oomph, flip your hair upside down and let gravity work in your favor.
8. Back-comb for instant height.
Teasing your hair is a quick and easy way to add volume in a flash. Use a fine-toothed comb to gently back-comb your roots, focusing on areas that need a boost. Lock it in with a touch of dry shampoo or hairspray for long-lasting hold.
9. Switch up your part.
Over time, consistently parting your hair the same way can create a "flat" pattern that makes your hair look less voluminous. Switching your part breaks this pattern and refreshes the way your hair moves. Try a deep side part (no side part shame here!) or a messy, tousled look for the most noticeable effect.
10. Layer up.
A layered haircut can completely transform thin hair by adding movement, depth and natural texture. Ask your stylist for long, soft layers that create volume without removing too much weight. Avoid going too short or opting for choppy layers since they might make your hair appear even thinner.
11. Play with color.
Highlights or lowlights can work magic by adding depth and dimension to flat hair. The contrast between shades creates the illusion of thicker, fuller strands—no dramatic changes necessary.
