A LITTLE KNOWLEDGE OF FASHION AND BEAUTY TECHNIQUES CAN GO A LONG WAY TOWARD DE-EMPHASIZING HAIR LOSS ISSUES.
Learning the basics of hair, hair extensions, wigs, fashion and other beauty techniques can take the sting out of hair loss and thinning hair and help any woman to look chic, stylish and fashionable.
Q. What’s causing my hair to be so thin?
Genetics, age, hormones and even diet can lead to thinning hair. See your doctor to find out if you may have a thyroid problem or other hormonal condition causing your hair loss. And though you can’t do anything about genetics or age, you certainly can change your diet. Junk food, fast food and other fattening food can limit healthy hair growth. Eat plenty of lean meat, fruits and vegetables, and whole grains. Protein, iron, silica and vitamin E also are essential to hair health and growth.
Q. Are there any hair care products that can make my hair appear thicker?
There is no miracle product to regrow hair; however, you can make your hair appear thicker by keeping it in good condition. Use a moisturizing and/or volumizing shampoo and conditioner. Try to avoid blow-dryers, curling irons and other heated tools, which can dry and damage your hair. Wash your hair regularly, as oily hair appears thinner than clean hair.
Q. How can I give my hair some additional volume?
Keep your hair relatively short. Hair that is longer than chin length is oftentimes coarse and brittle. Pick a style with a bit of volume on the top and don’t harshly pull your hair back from the face. Light curls will give the appearance of thicker, fuller hair. But, don’t use a curling iron — instead opt for good old-fashioned foam rollers, which won’t damage your hair.
Q. What’s the best haircut for thinning hair?
The modified bob is probably the best choice for most face shapes. A modified bob is a chin-length or slightly longer bob haircut with irregular, wispy ends. With this hairstyle, you can curl the ends upward in a flip. Tuck your hair behind your ears — this gives the appearance of more hair. A short pixie cut also is a terrific option for thinning hair. Short hairstyles are light and don’t weigh down the hair. If you have a sparse hairline, wearing bangs is the way to go. Asymmetrical styles also will give you the appearance of having more hair.
Q. Can hair extensions help women with hair loss?
Hair extensions don’t just add length; they can also add volume and thickness to hair. Before choosing a salon for your hair extensions, make sure that the professionals have experience with extensions for hair loss. Sewn-in track extensions and heavy glues can weigh down your hair and cause even more hair damage. For thinning hair you will want the safest, gentlest method possible to replenish your hair and minimize hair loss. Although they can be expensive, cold fusion and hair grafts are considered some of the best types of hair extension attachments or processes.
Q. Do all wigs look obviously fake?
Not all wigs are created equal. As with most things, you get what you pay for. A cheap wig of artificial hair can easily be spotted across a room; however, a handmade wig of authentic human hair can be almost undetectable. If you can afford it, get a wig that is custom-fitted and dyed to your natural hair color. A wig is a very convenient way to hide hair loss.
Q. My hair is so thin, but I want to wear an updo for my wedding. Is it possible?
If you don’t have enough hair on top for an updo, don’t fret. Your hairstylist can add clip-on extensions to provide the extra hair you need. Clip-ons are extremely affordable and easy to put on. Just make sure that they’re securely fastened before you hit the dance floor!
Q. What hair color is best for thinning hair?
If your hair is fine, thin or damaged, you should use the least amount of chemicals as possible on it. For that reason your natural hair color is probably the best option for thinning hair. If you want to dye your hair, however, stay away from blonde and light red — darker hair generally looks more voluminous.
Q. Is my hair dryer damaging my hair?
Yes. Blow-dryers and other styling tools can cause heat-damaged hair. Try to towel-dry your hair and let it dry naturally whenever possible. You probably already know to use your blow-dryer on a low heat setting, but that doesn’t mean you should take forever drying your hair. The longer your hair is exposed to any level of heat, the more damage is done. So if your only choices are between high heat for a minute or so or low heat for 20 minutes, you should pick the high heat.
Q. What’s the best hairstyle for my thin, curly hair?
You have an advantage — curly or wavy hair looks thicker and more voluminous than straight hair does; however, your haircut can make a big difference. Long hair, particularly beyond shoulder length, looks stringy and thin. If you prefer long hair, keep it between chin and shoulder length. Wispy bangs will help disguise a thinning hairline. Use a light mousse rather than a heavy gel when styling your hair. Heavy gels and waxes will weigh down your hair, making it appear thinner