Starting to notice that your ponytail is a little thinner than it used to be? It could be that your hair density is lower than it used to be. 

A lack of hair density can be a huge source of insecurity. Thinning hair could happen because of hormonal imbalances, pregnancy, childbirth, stresses, and damaging hair treatments. 

Having “thick hair” refers to the density of hair strands on your head. 

Some people might look as though they have really thick hair but actually just have coarse (poofier) hair. For instance, someone might have a huge mane of curly hair, but in actuality, hair density might be moderate or even low. For those with fine and straight hair, lower density hair might be harder to conceal.  

For those who are struggling with thinning hair, here are 5 tips and tricks that may help you increase hair thickness. 

#1 Try minoxidil

Minoxidil is the only FDA-approved hair loss treatment for women. When used topically, minoxidil can help stimulate the hair follicles that sit just beneath your scalp. 

Minoxidil stimulates the hair growth cycle and over time, can help wake up some “slumbering” hair follicles and kick them into high gear. 

This is great for hair loss and hair thinning. Those who want thicker hair should consider minoxidil. 

#2 Give your scalp some TLC

A daily scalp massage can encourage hair growth. This simple habit could help you thicken your hair and nourish existing hair. Scalp massages stimulate hair follicles by increasing blood flow to the scalp. 

Studies have shown that daily scalp massages of 10-20 minutes in duration can significantly improve hair thickness by increasing hair growth and may slow down hair loss. 

Often, our scalp is pretty much ignored until we are cleansing or conditioning. But our scalp needs stimulation too! 

#3 Stop using heat stylers

A hard but honest truth is heat stylers of all kinds are not good for your hair. If you want thicker-looking hair, using a straight iron, curling iron or blow dryer can have the opposite effect. 

Using heat on hair can “deflate” hair making it look even thinner than before. Try air drying and see if you can notice a difference in appearance. 

Heat tools cause damage and if you want healthy thick hair but continue using direct heat — this might be an uphill battle, friend. 

#4 Stop using harsh dyes and bleach

Speaking to the color happy among you — put down the permanent dye and bleaching agents. 

These types of dyes can weaken and damage the hair. If you’re looking for thick beautiful hair, using damaging dyes might only increase the appearance of thin hair. This is because these dyes can weaken the hair shaft causing damage and breakage.  

If you’re coloring often, try vegetable dyes or demi-permanent colors. 

#5 Increase natural sources of biotin, and omega 3s

The popular B-vitamin called Biotin has been linked to increased hair growth and hair strength. Biotin can be supplemented but can also be naturally found in eggs, legumes, and nuts. 

Omegas have been linked to healthy hair growth and increased hair thickness. Omega-3s are also great for your heart, and brain function. 

Omegas-3s can be found naturally in salmon, sardines, tuna, flaxseed, and chia seeds. 

The long and short of it

Thick hair comes down to stimulating the scalp, taking care of the length of your hair, and eating mindfully. 

If you want thicker hair, try minoxidil as a topical solution, increasing intake of biotin and omega 3 fatty acids, laying off damaging treatments, and giving your scalp some love. 

Lauren is a health and wellness content writer at Strut Health, is an online health clinic offering cost-effective treatment for everyday health problems like hair loss, acne, and more. We aim to treat and destigmatize health conditions so our patients can walk tall again.