How To Thicken Hair Naturally: 20+ Safe And Proven Ways
Tired of thin hair? We’ve compiled over 20 safe and proven ways to naturally thicken your locks, helping you unlock the secrets to a luscious head of hair.
You know, not everyone hits the genetic jackpot when it comes to having naturally full and thick hair. And even if you did, life happens, and sometimes those lush locks can start thinning out.
Yup, hair thinning can be caused by many other factors! Whether it’s aging, stress, or just a bad bout with heat styling tools, your hair might need a little extra TLC.Â
But don’t lose hope! It may seem like mission impossible to change the texture of your hair, but there are actually natural ways that can help make your hair thicker.
Today, we’ll dive into these natural methods as well as others that both men and women can use at home. So whether you’re dealing with age-related thinning or recovering from some harsh styling practices, stick around!
How to thicken hair naturally has never been easier! We’ve got tips that will have you saying bye to hair breakage and hello again to increased volume in no time.
How To Thicken Hair Naturally: 20+ Safe And Proven Ways
What Can Cause Your Hair To Thin?
Thinning hair is a common concern for both men and women. There are a multitude of factors that can lead to thinning locks, so it’s important to understand what might be causing yours.
First off, genetics play a big role. If your parents have thin hair, chances are you might too. It’s all in the DNA! But don’t fret just yet – not all hope is lost. While you can’t change your genes, there are ways to work with what nature has given you.
Another major cause of thinning locks is aging. As we get older, our hair naturally loses some of its density due to changes in our body’s ability to produce new hairs as quickly as it used to.
Next up on the list: poor nutrition and lack of essential vitamins can also lead to thinner tresses over time. Your body needs a balanced diet rich in proteins and various nutrients like iron and vitamin E for healthy hair growth.
And then there’s stress – both physical (like illness or surgery) and emotional (such as anxiety or depression). When your body goes through stressful times, it may shift energy away from non-essential functions like growing thick locks towards more vital tasks such as healing or maintaining overall health.
Last but certainly not least, harsh treatments including excessive heat styling, chemical processing (like coloring or perming), and tight hairstyles that pull on the roots – can all weaken your strands over time, leading them to become thinner.
Remember, this isn’t an exhaustive list! There might be other factors contributing to your case of thinning hair, which only a professional dermatologist can diagnose accurately.
The Hair Growth Cycle
You may be asking, how does this relate to thickening hair naturally? Understanding the phases means you’ve taken your first step into unlocking ways to boost your hair health. So, let’s learn the basics!
Very importantly, your natural hair growth cycle is split into four phases: anagen, catagen, telogen, and exogen. Let’s dive into what each of these phases means.
The anagen phase refers to when your hair is actively growing. This period can last anywhere from three to five years! In fact, about 90% of your hair is in the anagen phase at any given time.
Next up is the catagen phase, which is significantly shorter – lasting only around 10 days. You can think of it as a transitional phase. In this stage, your hair follicles shrink, and growth comes to a halt.
Then, we’ve got the telogen phase. This is where your hair rests, and old hair begins to fall out. This phase usually lasts about 3 months. An estimated 10-15% of your scalp hairs are in this phase.
The last phase is the exogen phase, which typically lasts around 2 to 5 months. This is when our hair goes through a shedding process. Don’t worry if you notice 50 to 100 hairs falling out each day during this phase – it’s totally normal!
Phase | Duration |
Anagen | 3-5 years |
Catagen | 1-2 weeks |
Telogen | 10-12 weeks |
Exogen | 2-5 months |
Can Thin Hair Become Thick Again?
First, let’s debunk the myth that thinning hair is irreversible. It isn’t! With the right care and patience, you can absolutely bring back the thickness of your mane. The key is to nourish and protect your hair while stimulating growth at the root level.
This might sound daunting, but trust me, it’s simpler than you think! Let’s dive in and explore some natural ways to help thicken your tresses.
How To Thicken Hair Naturally: 12 Easy Methods
We’ll delve into 12 easy and accessible ways to promote thicker, healthier hair, providing you with practical tips and insights to achieve the luscious locks you desire.
Whether you’re dealing with thinning hair or simply seeking ways to enhance your hair’s volume, these natural approaches can be a valuable addition to your beauty routine. Let’s go!
The Role Of A Balanced Diet In Promoting Thick Hair
You might’ve heard it before, but we’ll say it again – what you eat matters! A balanced diet isn’t just great for your overall health; it’s a fantastic way to promote hair growth and thickness.
Foods rich in protein, like fish, eggs, and nuts, can help strengthen your hair follicles. Incorporating iron-rich foods like spinach and lentils can also boost hair growth.
Don’t forget about those vitamins! Here are the most important vitamins that influence your hair’s health:
- Vitamin A: Found in sweet potatoes and carrots, is also crucial as it aids in sebum production, keeping your hair moisturized and healthy.
- Vitamin B: Biotin, a prominent B vitamin, is known for its positive effects on hair health. Foods high in biotin include eggs, nuts, seeds, and dairy products. Biotin supplementation can also be considered for those experiencing hair thinning.
- Vitamin C: This antioxidant helps build collagen, a crucial component in hair structure. Including vitamin C-rich foods like citrus fruits, strawberries, and bell peppers in your diet strengthens your hair and prevents breakage.
- Vitamin D: Low levels of vitamin D have been linked to hair loss, making it important to include sources of this vitamin in your diet. Fatty fish, fortified dairy products, and spending time in the sun can all help to increase your vitamin D levels.
- Vitamin E: Similar to Vitamin C, Vitamin E has antioxidant properties that protect your hair from damage and help retain moisture. Foods like almonds, avocados, sunflower seeds, and spinach are rich in Vitamin E.
And let’s not forget about biotin! It’s a powerhouse when it comes to promoting thick hair. You can find it in foods like almonds, eggs, and whole grains.
Don’t forget that nutritional deficiencies, particularly in minerals like zinc and iron, can lead to thinning hair. Incorporate foods rich in these nutrients, such as beans and lentils, to support healthy hair growth from within.
Maintain Hydration Levels
Water is essential for life AND for thicker hair. Keeping yourself hydrated isn’t only good for your body but also aids in keeping those locks luscious.
If you’re not sipping enough H2O throughout the day or have been overdoing it with caffeine or alcohol (we’ve all been there), chances are your mane may be suffering too. Make sure to step up your hydration intake; here are a few tips:
- Make drinking water a habit. It’s as simple as having a glass every couple of hours or so. Purchase a cute Starbucks bottle, not for coffee but for your water.
- Spice things up. If you think water is boring, then the joke’s on you! You can use fruit-infused water for added taste and nutrients.
- Cut back on caffeine and alcohol when you can. I know, I know, this one is tough, but listen, they’re known to dehydrate your body, and that includes your hair, too!
Go For The Chop
Before you freak out at this headline—nope—we’re not suggesting you shave off all of your precious strands! Instead, getting regular trims can actually help thicken your hair by removing split ends that break your hair, reducing further damage.
Hair Brushing Techniques
Regularly brushing your hair can spread its natural oils, which protect it from damage and give it a healthy shine. Consider investing in a boar bristle brush – they’re fantastic at distributing natural oils from the scalp throughout the rest of the hair!
It may not seem like it, but choosing the right brush for your hair type can make a big difference. The good news is that it’s an easy change to make. To get the best results, it’s crucial to use a brush that’s specifically designed for your hair type.
Regardless of your hair texture, daily brushing can help eliminate dead hair and exfoliate your scalp.
How Scalp Massage Can Stimulate Hair Growth And Thickness
Ever had a relaxing head massage? Not only does it feel divine—it’s also an excellent technique to get that blood flowing to stimulate increased hair growth.
A 2016 study found that scalp massage can increase hair thickness over 24 weeks, as massaging the scalp stimulates blood flow to the hair follicles.
You can do it yourself or ask your partner for a little pampering. Bonus points if you add some oils like vitamin E oil, rosemary, or castor oil. To massage your scalp effectively:
- Warm the oil of your choice.
- Apply the oil to your scalp with your fingertips.
- Gently massage your scalp using circular motions.
- Make sure to cover all areas of your scalp.
- Do this for at least five minutes daily.
Dandruff Management
Maintaining a healthy scalp is crucial to making your hair grow thicker, and managing dandruff is a key aspect of this. Dandruff can be caused by dry skin, an overgrowth of yeast, or hormonal imbalances. To manage dandruff:
- Keep your scalp clean and moisturized.
- Use a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo.
- Incorporate natural remedies, like tea tree oil or apple cider vinegar.
- If needed, consult a dermatologist about an anti-dandruff shampoo or treatment.
Never Use Sulfate Shampoos: Here’s Why
Did you know sulfates found in many shampoos can strip your hair of natural oils, leading to dryness and breakage? Well, sulfates are harsh detergents that can cause damage to your hair’s natural protective barrier.
Switching to a sulfate-free shampoo can help maintain those vital oils on your scalp and hair, which ultimately leads to healthier, thicker tresses.
It’s also worth noting that not all sulfate-free shampoos are created equal. Look for ones with nourishing ingredients like argan oil or keratin to really give your hair a healthy boost.
Don’t Over-Wash Your Hair
Overwashing is another common mistake people make when trying to thicken their hair naturally. By washing too often (more than once every two days), you risk drying out your scalp, which may lead to increased hair loss. A quick solution? Try using dry shampoo between washes!
Less frequent washing can work wonders for your hair’s texture and shine too. The buildup of natural oils and less exposure to harsh shampoo chemicals create a protective shield around your hair, making it look smoother and shinier.
Take Biotin Supplements To Support Hair Growth
Biotin and collagen supplements, both rich in amino acids, have been gaining popularity recently among both men and women experiencing thinning hair.
Biotin is a vitamin B supplement that is believed to strengthen the infrastructure of keratin – the key protein making up our lovely locks.
Collagen is another superstar supplement that can boost hair health. This protein powerhouse strengthens hair, preventing it from becoming brittle and breaking off.
Reduce Heat Styling To Avoid Hair Damage
We know it’s tempting to use heat styling tools every day, but doing so can cause significant damage over time, leading to potentially thinner strands! If you absolutely must style with heat, try using a heat protectant spray beforehand – trust us, your mane will thank you!
Use Safe, Non-Toxic Products For Hair Growth
Last but not least, always opt for safe, non-toxic products when seeking solutions on how to thicken hair naturally. Certain chemicals can lead to scalp irritation, hair loss, and even disrupt hormonal balance.
Why risk your health with products loaded with harmful chemicals? There’s a myriad of natural hair care products out there that can help boost your hair growth and thickness without any nasty side effects.
Hair Masks For Some Extra TLC
That’s right, hair masks! They’re a wonderful addition to your hair care routine. Hair masks loaded with natural ingredients like coconut oil, honey, and avocado can deeply moisturize and nourish your locks for that sought-after thickness. Plus, they’re easy to whip up at home!
To enhance the effectiveness of your hair masks, consider using a shower cap during the treatment. This simple addition can help trap heat and moisture, allowing the nutrients to penetrate deeply into your hair follicles.
12 Natural-Based Remedies: Best Ingredients To Use
If you want to opt for the most natural options to give your hair a boost, we have some easy-to-try home remedies. You’re in luck! There are 12 natural ingredients that can do wonders for your hair thickness.
Each of these gems has unique properties that nourish and strengthen your strands, promoting healthy hair growth and thickness. Let’s dive into them!
Olive Oil
First off, we have olive oil. This little gem is an easy fix that you probably already have in your kitchen. Why is it so great? Well, its antioxidants can help keep your scalp healthy, promoting increased hair growth right from those tiny follicles.
To use olive oil, warm a small amount of extra-virgin olive oil and massage it into your scalp and hair. Wrap your hair in a warm towel and leave the oil in for 30-45 minutes, then rinse it out with a gentle shampoo. Repeat this process once or twice a week.
Eggs
Did you know eggs are packed with protein? And since our hair is primarily made up of protein, using eggs can help thicken your strands naturally! Try this:
- Beat 1 or 2 eggs together.
- Slather the mixture onto your scalp and damp hair.
- Let it sit for about 30 minutes.
- Rinse thoroughly with warm water using a mild shampoo.
You could also mix egg yolks with olive oil and water, leave it on for 15 minutes before washing out. Doing this once or twice a week over several weeks can help strengthen your locks.
Avocado
Your next brunch could be doing wonders for your thinning mane! Avocados aren’t just tasty; they’re also high in vitamins E and B, which work at the cellular level to protect and strengthen hair.
Just mash an avocado with a tablespoon of olive oil until smooth, then apply this superfood mask to dampened tresses.
Orange Puree
Vitamin C, anyone? Oranges are chock-full of it! Not only does this vitamin promote healthier skin (including the scalp), but it also fights against free radicals that cause damage to our cells – including those precious ones responsible for making our locks grow longer & thicker.
To make orange puree:
- Blend fresh oranges into a smooth paste.
- Massage into the scalp & let sit around an hour before washing off
A light conditioner might be necessary post-treatment if you find your mane needs extra hydration!
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil isn’t just good for cooking; its properties work wonders on both skin and scalp, too! It helps reduce the loss of protein from damaged hairs while deeply moisturizing them at the same time – definitely a win-win situation if you ask us!
To use coconut oil, gently warm a small amount of extra-virgin coconut oil and massage it into your scalp. Leave it in for at least an hour or even overnight, and then wash it out with a gentle shampoo. Repeat this process once a week.
Grapeseed Oil
Another kitchen staple, grapeseed oil, is a fantastic remedy for those seeking thicker hair. It’s packed with antioxidants and emollients that can help to strengthen each strand from root to tip.
Additionally, grapeseed oil acts as an emollient, which means it has the ability to lock in moisture. Dry and brittle hair is often a result of inadequate hydration. Grapeseed oil steps in to provide the necessary moisture, preventing your hair from becoming brittle and prone to damage.
To incorporate grapeseed oil into your hair care routine, simply warm a small amount in your hands and apply it evenly from root to tip. You can use it as a pre-shampoo treatment, leave-in conditioner, or even as a final touch to tame frizz and add shine.
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera isn’t just for sunburns! This natural wonder is known for its healing properties and can do wonders in promoting hair growth, too.
Applying aloe vera gel directly onto your scalp will soothe any irritation while also stimulating the blood circulation needed to nourish your follicles.
Castor Oil
Talk about a magic potion! Castor oil is known for its powerful effects on hair growth due to its rich source of vitamin E and fatty acids, which are essential in maintaining healthy hair. So why not try applying some castor oil before bed and let it work its magic overnight?
Vitamin E, known for its antioxidant prowess, helps protect hair from oxidative stress, keeping it healthy and resilient. Meanwhile, the fatty acids in castor oil, such as ricinoleic acid, provide essential nourishment to your hair and scalp.
The key to castor oil’s effectiveness lies in its ability to penetrate deep into the hair follicles and the scalp. When applied, it doesn’t just sit on the surface; it goes to work at the root level.
Applying castor oil before bed is a strategic move. To use castor oil as part of your nighttime hair care routine, follow these simple steps:
- Start by warming a small amount of castor oil in your hands.
- Then, gently massage it into your scalp, paying attention to any areas of concern. Make sure to distribute the oil evenly from root to tip, covering all your hair strands.
- After application, you can secure your hair in a loose bun or use a shower cap to prevent any oil transfer to your pillowcase.
- In the morning, simply wash your hair as usual to remove the oil residue.
Onion Juice
Now, don’t cringe just yet! Despite their tear-inducing reputation, onions are actually pretty great at nourishing hair follicles and getting blood flowing (which helps with nourishing those hungry follicles).
When you apply onion juice to your scalp, it acts as a natural vasodilator, expanding blood vessels and enhancing the flow of nutrient-rich blood to your hair follicles. Which then works like a natural wake-up call for your follicles, prompting them to produce healthy hair.
Just blend an onion, strain out the juice, apply it to your scalp & rinse off after 15 minutes – you might be surprised by how effective this method can be!
As we all know, the smell of onions can be quite strong, so you might want to do this treatment when you have some time to spare and can wash your hair afterward.
Jojoba Oil
This one’s especially beneficial if you have dry or damaged locks since it closely resembles our own skin’s oils – making it super moisturizing without leaving any residue behind.
This ability to moisturize without weighing down the hair makes it a perfect solution for those with dry or damaged locks.
Dry and damaged hair often lacks the essential moisture it needs to remain healthy and vibrant—Jojoba oil steps in as a natural conditioner, providing hydration to your hair from root to tip.
It helps restore and maintain the hair’s moisture balance, preventing issues like brittleness, split ends, and breakage.
Beyond its moisturizing properties, it acts as a protective barrier against environmental stressors, such as UV rays and pollution, shielding your hair from damage.
To incorporate jojoba oil into your hair care routine, you can use it in various ways. You can apply a few drops of pure jojoba oil directly to your hair, focusing on the ends if they are particularly dry. Or, you can mix it with your favorite conditioner for an extra dose of moisture.Â
For a deep conditioning treatment, warm the oil slightly and massage it into your scalp and hair, leaving it on for a while before washing it out.
Rosemary Oil
When it comes to natural remedies for promoting hair thickness, one gem that often goes overlooked is rosemary oil. While it’s a common herb used in cooking to add flavor to dishes, its benefits extend far beyond the kitchen.
One of the key ways rosemary oil aids in hair thickness is by stimulating the scalp. It acts as a natural catalyst, awakening dormant hair follicles and encouraging them to produce new strands.
This stimulation also boosts blood circulation in the scalp, ensuring that hair follicles receive an adequate supply of oxygen and essential nutrients. Improved blood flow can help create the optimal conditions for healthier and more robust hair growth.
To use rosemary oil effectively, you can mix a few drops of it with a carrier oil like jojoba or coconut oil. This dilution helps ensure that the oil is applied evenly and reduces the risk of any potential irritation.
Gently massage the oil blend into your scalp, allowing it to work its magic. Leave it on for a while to allow the nutrients to seep into your hair follicles before rinsing or washing it out.
Peppermint Oil
Peppermint oil brings a unique sensation to the scalp – a cool, tingling feeling that signals increased blood circulation. When you apply peppermint oil to your scalp, it acts as a natural vasodilator, meaning it widens the blood vessels.
This expansion allows for better blood flow to the hair follicles, ensuring they receive the necessary nutrients and oxygen for optimal growth. Improved circulation can help revitalize dormant hair follicles and encourage the development of stronger, thicker hair strands.
Peppermint oil is also known for its natural cleansing properties. It helps remove excess sebum, product buildup, and dead skin cells from the scalp.
Incorporating peppermint oil into your hair care routine is a breeze. Simply add a few drops of peppermint oil to your favorite shampoo or conditioner. Mixing it directly with your hair products ensures an even distribution, making it convenient and hassle-free.
Should You Seek Medical Advice?
If your hair loss persists or worsens even after trying these natural remedies, it’s time to consult a doctor. It could be an indication of underlying health issues that need immediate attention.Â
Doctors or trichologists, experts who specialize in hair and scalp health, can provide personalized advice and treatments. They can help diagnose any underlying health conditions, such as androgenetic alopecia (a common form of hair loss in both men and women), also known as male pattern baldness or patchy alopecia areata.
In some cases, trichologists may recommend medication such as minoxidil (commonly known as Rogaine) to stimulate hair regrowth.
READ MORE: How To Prevent Hair Loss: Your Complete Guide To Lush Locks
Conclusion: Embracing A Natural Approach To Thicker, Fuller Hair
You’ve made it! Now that you’ve journeyed through the various ways to thicken your hair naturally let’s tie up loose ends.
Remember, everyone’s hair is different, and what works for some might not work as effectively for others. But don’t worry; there are plenty of methods available to promote hair growth and thickness.
We discussed 12 ways to change your hair care and lifestyle habits that will eventually help improve your hair’s health. On top of that, we shared 12 natural home remedies to try and improve the look of your locks. So many options to try!
While you’re embracing these natural methods to boost your mane’s volume, be patient! Hair growth isn’t instant – even if you’re doing everything right.