Styling Tricks for Thinning Hair

If you suffer from hair loss, you can tweak your hair care routine to make the most of the hair you've got. Follow these simple tips to add volume and minimize further breakage.

By Dr. Jessica Wu

I was examining one of my patients the other day, when I noticed dark spots on her forehead that looked like they might be skin cancer. However, when I took a closer look, I realized that they were particles of spray-on hair. Not wanting to embarrass her, I tactfully recommended that we do an evaluation to rule out any underlying medical cause for her thinning hair, and I suggested ways for her to make the most of what she had:

• Get the right hairstyle. Too much length can weigh down your hair and make it look thinner and flatter, so be sure to regularly trim any split ends, and have your hairstylist add layers for more volume.
• Avoid tight ponytails, braids, and headbands. Hair accessories that constantly tug on your hair can end up pulling it out at the roots. This is especially common around the hairline.
• Cut back on processing. Color, chemical straightening, and chemical curling weaken hair shafts and can cause hair to break off. Stretch out your visits for such procedures as much as possible.
• Limit heat styling. Blow-drying can literally boil the water in your hair, causing “bubbles” to form and the hair shafts to weaken. Your best bet is to gently towel dry your hair first, then use the lowest setting on your hair dryer that will get the job done.
• Use volumizing products — but sparingly. Volumizing shampoos, conditioners, and other styling products can help give your hair a lift by coating the strands to make them appear thicker. Use these products sparingly, though, so they don’t weigh down your hair and make your scalp more visible. Use as little conditioner, gel, or spray as possible, and try to apply these products only to the ends of your hair.