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Your volumising tips for thinning hair
Have your locks been looking a bit limp lately? It's not unusual for our hair to thin as we get older, but that doesn't mean that the minute you're over 50 you have to resign yourself to a life of lacklustre hair. We've compiled Gransnetters' best tips and product recommendations on how to add luxurious volume and encourage hair growth.
While you're here, check out our tried and tested hair styles to to add volume to fine hair...
What are the common causes of hair loss?
Female pattern hair loss is a common condition that affects around 40% of women over fifty - but that doesn't mean it can't be distressing. It's no secret that the condition of hair tends to decrease as we grow older, particularly after menopause, but why does this happen? Hair naturally loses density with age, meaning even those with the most luscious of locks can find their hair thinning out when they hit middle-age. This is because hair follicles shrink as we get older, therefore resulting in thinner strands of hair being produced.
How to add volume to thinning hair
From styling tricks to hair thickening treatments and products that actually work, Gransnetters share their recommendations below...
1. Use a thickening shampoo and a good quality conditioner
So many products promise the earth, but a high-quality shampoo and conditioner tailored for hair loss can make all the difference to your hair. Shampooing regularly is a good idea as it helps keep the scalp healthy - an important factor in hair health. You might think that with thinning hair, you should ditch the conditioner altogether but, if used correctly, conditioner can improve the thickness of your hair and enhance your hairstyle. A simple rule is to shampoo the roots and condition the ends.
"Olaplex 3 Is worth a shot, it’s really helped me." Jzpap
"I use Plantur 39 - I found I don't have as much hair in my brush as before." Shel69
2. Try a scalp serum
Serums are not just for your face - a healthy scalp is important because it determines the health and condition of your hair. Serums can be applied either overnight (and washed off the next day) or after shampooing.
"I have recently started using a product called Grow Gorgeous. It's a serum which is non sticky which you apply once a day. It also smells lovely. I have only been using it for 4 weeks so early days as they recommend using for a minimum of 4 months but have noticed a difference in the texture of my hair and it does appear thicker. Less of my scalp seems to be visible thank goodness!" Shabby
2. Get a thickening hair cut
"I have always hated my fine hair, which isn't really changing as I get older. Not only is a good cut essential, in addition good hair products matter. I have tried layers, short cuts but always always come back to the bob. Has to be cut well though." KeepingQuiet.
Most salons will offer a free consultation where you can discuss your concerns and what you want from a haircut. Despite what you might think, some cuts, especially those with lots of layers, can make your hair look thinner so it's a good idea to discuss your expectations beforehand. A good haircut can have a dramatic impact so it's worth taking the time to find a salon that knows their stuff. While you're in the salon, you can opt for a treatment aimed at thinning hair though do bear in mind this typically works out much more expensive than doing it yourself at home. Find a salon near you on Treatwell.
3. Create a homemade budget-friendly hair volumiser
At Gransnet, we love a cheap and effective homemade solution for everything from cleaning to skincare. But it also works for thinning hair too.
Gransnetter MeggyMay reccomends washing your hair using a teaspoon of baking soda in a mugful of warm water. "My hair is shiny and manageable and frequently draws compliments. About once a fortnight I massage a small amount of warm castor oil into my scalp (not a lot) and wrap a warm towel round my head for half an hour before washing my hair."
5. Try a root-boosting product to thicken hair
Hair boosting products typically create a friction between hair strands that makes hair appear thicker and fuller. Sprays are usually heat activated (for damp hair) while powders are designed to be used on dry hair.
"Toppik is a fine powder - you select the correct colour and it costs around £20.00. For that you get months of use. You just sprinkle it onto your scalp and you can't see it, it dosn't wear off it just covers what you need to cover. I would highly recommend it. Give it go and you won't be disappointed." OldGoose
Meanwhile, for the budget-conscious, Gransnetter FannyCornforth has you covered with this bargain dry shampoo from the Nutmeg range at Morrrisons: "I’ve just discovered this. It’s amazing stuff, a real find. It really does give thin, flat hair a boost. I bought it because the reviews were so good. I’ve bought loads of dry shampoos before, some of them quite expensive, but this is in a different league.
And it’s £1.75!"
7. Supplement your hair growth
Poor diet and nutritional deficiency can negatively affect hair growth and so supplements may help in conjunction with a well-balanced diet.
"I am now taking Silicea capsules, which contain most of the essential minerals our hair, skin and nails are made from, my fine hair at present does have the appearance and texture of thicker hair." Napoleon.
"I use Biotin supplements, on recommendation from a friend, sometimes cheaper than the skin/hair/nails supplements I think, and I wait to get them on offer." SynchroSwimmer
8. Try a clinical solution
Finasteride and minoxidil are the main treatments for male pattern baldness while minoxidil (such as Regaine) can also be used to treat female pattern baldness. These treatments are not suitable for everyone, are not available on the NHS and results can vary.
"Last year I tried using Regaine lotion and as it said it might take several months to promote growth I persevered. After 3 bottles of it, I did see new growth." LesleyC.
9. See your GP if you're worried about excessive hair loss
While it's normal to lose some hair daily, excessive hair loss could indicate an underlying medical condition such as androgenic alopecia. Certain medications used to treat high blood pressure, such as those for cancer, arthritis, depression, and heart problems, can also have hair loss as a side effect. Other factors such as stress, hormonal imbalance, poor diet or vitamin deficiency can impact hair loss. If you're worried about abnormal hair loss you should see your GP to rule out any underlying factors. The NHS advises women to see a GP before contacting a commercial hair loss clinic.
"When I was in my thirties my hair starting shedding at a frightening rate. My GP arranged for me to have 6 weekly vitamin B injections which cured it. It's worth asking your GP if there are supplements you could take or have a blood test incase you are short of anything." Travelincil2018
10. Get some support
Losing hair can be upsetting. For many women, hair is a huge part of our identity. If you're finding thinning hair distressing, your GP may be able to help you get some counselling to help you cope. You could also look into joining a support group where you can speak to others in the same situation and of course, the Gransnet Talk boards are always there for invaluable wisdom and solidarity.
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Gransnetters recommend...
From the best volumising mousse for fine hair, to shampoo for hair loss, here are the products for thin hair that Gransnetters love...
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| Plantur 39 Phyto-Caffeine Shampoo | Aveda Thickening Tonic |
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"I've been using Plantur 39 and have to say with quite encouraging results (so far)." |
"My daughter's hair is fine and she uses Aveda thickening tonic. It's not cheap but the bottle lasts for ages." |
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Buy: Lookfantastic, £24.50 |
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| Nioxin Diaboost Thickening Xtrafusion Treatment |
Mane n' Tail Shampoo and Conditioner |
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"My mum's hairdresser recommended |
"It makes hair look thicker. I use other volumising shampoo occasionally but really prefer the results I get with this." |
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Buy: Lookfantastic, £31.99 |
Buy: Amazon, £15.99 (double pack) |
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| John Freida Volume Lift Thickening Mousse | |
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"I use a shampoo free conditioning cleanser (Grow Gorgeous) which is supposedly better for your hair. I think there’s been an improvement." |
"After towel drying, I use a golf ball-sized blob of the mousse. These products have made a visible difference that my friends have noticed." |
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Buy: Lookfantastic, £18.20 |
Buy: Superdrug, £6.99 |
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| Philip Kinglsey Elasticizer Treatment | L'Oreal Serioxyl Advanced Denser Hair Serum |
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"It is WONDERFUL! My hair looks |
"After three months of using it every night there is now very visible regrowth and the fringe is almost completely back." |
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Buy: Marks & Spencer, £20.00 |
Buy: Lookfantastic, £42.75 |
Prices correct on 21/03/2024.
