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While there is no way to change the texture of the hair follicles, there are many ways to make the hair appear thicker and reduce breakage and hair loss, such as eating a nutritious diet and scalp massage.
Thin or thinning hair is common and can affect anyone. Aging, chemical allergies, illnesses, and poor nutrition are just some of the factors that may contribute.
In this article, we list several natural ways to make the hair look and feel thicker that a person can try at home. We also describe products, such as shampoos and supplements, that may help.
Hair loss can develop differently, depending on a person’s sex.
For example, the British Association of Dermatologists reports that female pattern hair loss typically affects people aged 30 or older and causes thinning of hair on the crown of the head. It also says that the hair may appear shorter in other areas. There is currently no cure.
The American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD) explains that thin hair is fragile and has an increased risk of damage. The association provides these tips for people with hair loss:
- using a gentle shampoo that does not remove moisture
- using a moisturizing conditioner to reduce breakage and split ends
- applying a leave-in conditioner after washing and conditioning to prevent frizz and breakage
- wrapping the hair in a microfiber towel before blow-drying it
The AAD also warns against using curling or flat irons, as these can weaken the hair. A person might also reconsider other styling options. For example, pulling the hair back in a ponytail or bun can lead to permanent hair loss over time.
Scalp massage
A
Also known as micro-rolling, this involves shaving the scalp and pricking it with tiny, sterilized needles in a handheld tool.
Microneedling stimulates the hair follicles, and a
The University of Michigan Health System mentions two medications that can help slow hair thinning and thicken hair shafts:
- Minoxidil (Rogaine): Versions marketed for men and women are available without a prescription, and a person can spray or rub it into their scalp twice a day. This drug, however, does not cure baldness, and overusing it does not cause the hair to grow faster. Once a person stops using this product, they may lose the new hair within a few months. Learn more about Rogaine here.
- Finasteride (Propecia): This prescription treatment involves taking a daily pill, but it is not suitable for females. Learn more about finasteride here.
The university’s health system warns that it may take 1 year to start seeing results from these medications and that most private insurance plans do not cover the costs.
Cold caps
Cancer treatments such as chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and radiation therapy can cause hair thinning or loss.
Anyone looking to prevent this might try a cold cap, a hat-like garment designed to protect the hair follicles from the effects of chemotherapy.
Many companies manufacture cold caps, including Penguin Cold Caps, Chemo Cold Caps, and Arctic Cold Caps.
Many brands sell supplements and shampoos promising to help stimulate hair growth and thickness.
However, the AAD recommends seeking medical advice before making a purchase. Some supplements and shampoos can interact with medications, and a dermatologist can help a person make a suitable choice.
Below are some products that are available to purchase online.
Please note that the writer of this article has not tried these products. All information presented is purely research-based and correct at the time of publication.
Medical News Today follows a strict product selection and vetting process. Learn more here.
Country Life Maxi Hair Plus
These supplements contain biotin, calcium, zinc, and vitamins.
They are gluten-free and suitable for people with vegetarian diets.
The company says that the supplements promote hair growth, as well as nail and skin health. Reviewers report increased hair thickness, as well.
One bottle includes 120 supplements and is available to purchase online for around $20.
MegaFood Skin, Nails & Hair 2
These supplements contain biotin, vitamins, zinc, and selenium and may help strengthen the hair and nails.
They are free from gluten, dairy, and soy, and the company recommends taking two a day.
Bottles contain either 60 or 90 tablets, and pricing starts from around $24.
Nioxin 3D Intensive Hair Booster
This leave-in treatment conditions and protects thin hair, particularly receding hairlines and low-density crowns, the makers say.
They recommend massaging this conditioner into the scalp twice a day. A person may notice a warming sensation afterward.
Nioxin 3D Intensive Hair Booster is available to purchase online for around $50.
Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
This contains ketoconazole, an anti-androgen and antifungal treatment for infections such as dandruff, and it may help control hair loss that can occur when a person has dandruff.
The company recommends using it twice a week.
Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo is available to purchase online for around $15.
Nanogen Thickening Treatment Shampoo for Women
This shampoo may make the hair appear more full-bodied, possibly after the first use. Its deep-cleaning formula contains hyaluronic acid and no parabens or alcohol. The product is also not animal tested.
The company says that a person can use this for each wash. It recommends massaging the shampoo through the hair and rinsing after 1 minute.
Nanogen Thickening Treatment Shampoo is available to purchase online for around $20.
Below are some common questions about hair thickening.
Can thin hair become thicker again?
A person cannot change the texture of their hair. However, the hair may grow back after chemotherapy or pregnancy, for example.
Styling the hair in certain ways can lead to hair loss over time, so a person might reconsider straightening or curling their hair or pulling it back frequently.
How can women get thicker hair?
Some companies market products to people of different genders and promise to make the hair appear thicker and fuller. These may also help slow hair loss. The AAD reports that some shampoos can lock in moisture and reduce breakage, preventing hair thinning.
Anyone who suspects that they have hair loss should see a dermatologist, who can identify the cause of thinning or shedding hair and recommend the right treatment. The doctor may prescribe minoxidil, a drug that can stimulate hair growth and slow balding.
What are the best natural hair thickening products?
A person can make a hair treatment from everyday products, such as eggs, olive oil, and avocados. The results may vary from person to person.
Anecdotal evidence suggests that various everyday ingredients, such as coconut oil, can help thicken and strengthen the hair. It is important to note that very little scientific evidence, if any, supports these treatments, and the effects may vary from person to person.
It is also crucial to avoid any known allergens.
Anyone with sudden or unexplained hair loss or thinning should receive medical attention, as a health condition may be the cause.
Natural home remedies may be low cost and low risk. In some cases, a person may prefer a commercial product designed to treat or prevent hair loss.