Thin hair refers to a lower density of strands rather than texture or diameter, and is totally common and natural. It’s often influenced by hormone-related shedding or pure genetics. Those full, bouncy ponytails and bombshell waves you love on your favourite celebs? They’re probably thanks to some clever hair extensions.
Hair thickness can also be affected by your health, so it’s always a good idea to check in with your GP or a trichologist if you’re noticing more hair fall than usual. They’ll offer useful advice to help you navigate and improve hair growth.
Once you’re good to go, there are loads of ways to style and cut your hair to create the illusion of volume and fullness. We spoke to the pros to find out exactly how.
Styling tips for thin hair
Kirsten Finnigan, hairstylist at Hari’s Salon, Notting Hill, explains that thin hair can often look flat and lacking in volume, so she recommends using a root-lifting spray and blow-drying your hair upside down. Lightweight texturising hairsprays can also add hold if you find that your hairstyle doesn’t last.
If your ends feel limp or ‘stringy,’ she suggests regular trims and adding subtle layers for extra movement.
“For scalps that show through, try hair fibres or gently back-comb to help with coverage,” says Finnigan, who’s also a fan of keeping dry shampoo in your arsenal since thinner hair tends to get greasy quicker.
Marcos Duran Alvis, hairstylist at Hari’s Salon, Northcote Road, adds, “Thin hair can sometimes be prone to frizz, especially in humidity. Anti-frizz products and heat protectors will help keep your style in check.” He also advises going easy on your hair to avoid further breakage. “Always brush gently and avoid tugging,” he says.
The best haircuts and hairstyles for thin hairDelicate layers
Vincenzo Grillo – LAUNCHMETRICS SPOTLIGHT
“If your hair is straight, add layers for movement, use dry shampoo for texture, and avoid heavy products,” says Finnigan. For curls and waves, scrunch with mousse and use a diffuser to add volume. “Avoid thick creams that weigh hair down,” she shares. When heat styling, always use a heat protector to avoid damage and breakage.
There’s no one-size-fits-all, but lighter layers around your face are a good bet. The cut should add body without removing too much bulk, as hair tends to appear thinnest around the front.
Sharp edges
Francesca Babbi – LAUNCHMETRICS SPOTLIGHT
Next to soft layers, short haircuts with weighty ends around the front can help disguise finer locks. “Blunt bobs and cuts are an excellent option for thinning hair. They create the illusion of dimension, texture, and thickness by making the ends look fuller,” Finnigan explains. “Alternatively, pixie cuts, shaggy chops, and textured cuts are bold options to try.”
Hard-parting
Vincenzo Grillo – LAUNCHMETRICS SPOTLIGHT
A dramatic side part can give the illusion of height and volume. Lightly mist volumising spray and use a rat-tail comb to define the part.
Dress it up
Francesca Babbi – LAUNCHMETRICS SPOTLIGHT
Accessories can be a lifesaver for adding interest to thin hair. “A thick headband with a little embellishment is my personal fave. Clips and scarves are fun too,” says Finnigan.
Go gentle
Francesca Babbi – LAUNCHMETRICS SPOTLIGHT
For Afro-textured hair, a gentle approach is key. “Always protect and be delicate, as the hair can be quite fragile when heat styling. If you can, go for heatless styling – that’s my best advice,” says Miffy Goknil, senior stylist at Hari’s Salon, King’s Road.
“Use gentle heat when you can, and when doing silk presses, avoid passing the same section over too many times. For fragile ends, use lower heat settings.”
If you’re braiding, don’t apply too much tension to avoid traction alopecia. Regular, deep conditioning treatments (such as hair masks) are a must.
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