How to Thicken Hair Naturally 

You’re not alone if you find your locks a little lacklustre and lank. No surprise many of us are wondering how to thicken hair. When you summon up an image of a truly lust-worthy head of hair, chances are it’s thick, strong, and effortlessly luscious. But many of us aren’t naturally blessed with a barnet that could induce the green-eyed monster in others, and there are many reasons why our hair may lack oomph.  

According to the American Academy of Dermatology fine hair can be caused by genetics, our lifestyle habits (or both), and some medical conditions can exacerbate the issue. Let’s face it: hair is important, and if you’re wondering how to get a little extra pep in those peptides, read on…  

Hair thickening products  

Just like so many aspects of our appearance, with our hair, we can’t radically change what nature gave us. But there are things you can do that will help your hair appear thicker, fuller, and reduce breakage.  

Thickening shampoos will add an extra dollop of volume into your hair, making it look fuller in the process. They also often contain vitamins and amino acids which will help maintain a healthy scalp and promote hair growth. Kevin Murphy Plumping Wash, £27 nourishes each and every hair follicle and stimulates circulation to help promote hair growth. Nourishing, hydrating formulas such as this will also help hair retain moisture, leaving it looking thicker and fuller naturally.  

 

Whatever you opt for, follow up with a conditioner that’s heavy on the hydration without weighing down strands, such as Living Proof Full Conditioner, £25.

Follow up with a thickening treatment that will create lift in your hair and make it feel fuller. Oribe Maximista Thickening Spray, £36 is an effective (and non-sticky) choice.  

Read next: Sulfates In Shampoo: Why It’s Not Always A Bad Thing 

Some people find essential oils helpful to thicken fine hair, with lavender oil having successfully been used by some to stimulate hair growth. Studies have also suggested that rosemary oil can increase blood flow and therefore improve scalp health which is vital for healthy hair growth.  

Other essential oils said to have a positive effect on hair growth are peppermint oil, cedarwood and thyme. While there’s not yet enough evidence to suggest that essential oils can work wonders on thinning hair, if you want to give it a try, make sure your oil is diluted and always do a patch test first.  

Should you be unwilling to shell out for a new haircare regime, you’ll be pleased to find out that there are probably some products already lingering in your cupboards that can be put to work to thicken your hair naturally.  

The humble egg is rich in protein, a vital building block for thick hair. Simply, beat one or two eggs and apply the mixture to damp hair for around 30 minutes. If the thought of coconut oil is more appealing (we do understand), go forth, as studies have found that it can thicken hair and stimulate growth.   

Another hero ingredient, Olive oil is chock full of omega-3, a fatty acid that research has shown can stimulate hair growth. Simply warm the oil up to body temperature and massage into scalp and hair, leaving for 30 minutes then use a gentle shampoo to remove.  

We all know that oranges are a brilliant source of Vitamin C, but they also contain pectin which can help improve the sheen on hair, in turn making it appear thicker. Simply blend some fresh oranges and apply to the hair and scalp before leaving for 1 hour (be sure to follow up with a hydrating conditioner). Lastly, the brilliant avocado contains lots of vitamin E, a key moisturising ingredient. Mix with a tablespoon of olive oil and apply.  

Read next: A Good Hair Care Routine for Every Type

Lifestyle changes to promote thicker hair  

Our lifestyle choices also play a big role when it comes to the health of our hair. Stress affects us in lots of ways and it means we produce more of the hormone cortisol. This has a knock-on effect when it comes to our tresses as it can prevent new hairs from growing.  

While reducing stress is certainly easier said than done, take stock of your work life balance and see if there may be room for a little extra you-time. It’s also vital to ensure you’re getting enough sleep each night, as shut eye plays a vital role in our overall health.  

Lots of studies suggest that lack of sleep can impact the process of hair growth, so embrace a pre-bedtime relaxing routine to ensure you get those forty winks. And put down your cigarettes and alcohol, as both can have knock-on effects on the health of your hair follicles.   

Also take a look at your haircare routine itself. Post-wash, gently wrap up your locks in a microfibre towel as opposed to pulling on it with a traditional towel, as this will help reduce breakage, which makes hair appear thinner.  

And hard as it may be, try to retire those beloved heated hair tools. While they may work wonders, they also weaken hair so if plump luscious locks are what you’re aiming for, try embracing your natural texture. Stop wearing your hair in tight ponytails or braids, as pulling your hair back in this way can cause thinning. And remember, whenever touching, brushing, styling, or washing your hair, a gentle approach is best, and you should avoid yanking it at all costs.  

Thicker hair through your diet  

We’re all well versed in the mantra ‘you are what you eat’, and a diet full of healthy fats, protein and vitamins has lots of benefits, including thick healthy hair.  

Foods that are packed with hair healthy ingredients include Brazil nuts (which contain lots of selenium), fatty fish and walnuts (both excellent sources of omega-3 acids). Also eggs — not just good for slathering on your hair, these wonder ingredients contain protein and biotin so don’t overlook a hearty omelette in the morning. 

Greek yogurt and green, black, or pinto beans are also great protein sources. Consider adding an extra one or two servings of these foods to your daily diet to help make thin hair thicker. Seaweed is another interesting ingredient, rich in omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins and many people think adding a dose to your diet can help with hair growth. The jury is still out, but some studies suggest a positive correlation.  

Consider adding in some supplements that can help to help bolster your vitamin intake too. Folic acid is important for new cell generation, with studies suggesting that it plays a role in hair growth.  

Saw Palmetto is a herbal remedy that many believe can help increase hair growth. Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids don’t naturally occur in the body and they help your skin stay healthy (including your scalp) and help your body fight inflammation, which can be related to hair loss. 

Biotin is another vitamin that’s grown in popularity over the years, with many supplements promising to support hair growth. It’s naturally found in foods like nuts and lentils and there is some evidence that it encourages hair growth.  

Hairstyles for thicker hair  

Reaching for the scissors may seem counterintuitive when trying to thicken your hair, but actually, there are many crafty cuts that can give the illusion of more volume. Try opting for long layers as this will help discourage hair from falling flat, which can make it look thinner. 

Shorter pieces around your face will help add dimension too. After a salon-trip, try experimenting with your parting. If you’re hopelessly devoted to your middle part, flipping your hair over to one side is an easy way to add instant body. Give roots a quick backcomb to create fullness up top, and when blow-drying, tip your head upside down so the air can properly circulate from root to tip, plumping as it goes.  

FAQs  

Is it possible to grow thicker hair? 

There are things you can do to make your hair appear healthier, which will in turn give the illusion of thickness. Adopt a nourishing haircare regime to properly hydrate your hair and consider taking a vitamin supplement. 

Can thin hair become thick again? 

There are many reasons why hair can become thin, and cutting down on bad habits like smoking, alcohol and insufficient sleep can help reverse this. Add in some hair healthy foods to your diet and handle your hair very gently to prevent breakage, which will make hair look thinner.  

What stimulates hair thickening? 

Lots of vitamins and minerals are important for hair health, such as iron, folic acid, and omega-3 and 6. Some people also believe that scalp massage can help stimulate hair follicles, and improve hair growth.