Many of us dream of having thick, voluminous hair, but daily life can sometimes leave our locks looking a little flat and fine. If you find yourself wondering how to add more body and strength to your hair, you’re not alone. The good news is that achieving thicker-looking hair is often within reach by making some simple changes to your routine and giving your hair the right kind of support from the inside out.
Nourish Your Hair from Within
Healthy hair starts with a healthy body. Your hair needs a steady supply of the right nutrients to grow strong and resilient. Make sure your diet includes plenty of protein, which is the building block of hair, from sources like eggs, fish, and legumes. Iron, found in leafy greens and red meat, and omega-3 fatty acids, present in walnuts and salmon, are also crucial for promoting a healthy scalp and encouraging growth.
Be Gentle with Your Washing Routine
How you wash your hair can make a big difference in its volume. Washing too frequently can strip your scalp of its natural oils, so try to extend the time between washes. When you do shampoo, focus on cleansing your scalp and let the suds rinse through the ends. Always follow with a conditioner, but apply it mainly from the mid-lengths to the ends of your hair to avoid weighing down the roots where you want the most lift.
Choose the Right Products for Volume
The products you use can instantly create the illusion of thicker hair. Look for shampoos and conditioners labeled volumizing or thickening. When your hair is damp, a light mist of volumizing spray or mousse at the roots can provide fantastic lift. As you blow-dry, try flipping your head upside down for a few minutes to add extra body at the crown.
Protect Your Hair from Damage
Thin-looking hair is often hair that has been damaged. To protect your strands, be mindful of heat styling. Always use a heat protectant spray before using any hot tools, and try to let your hair air-dry whenever possible. It’s also a good idea to use a wide-tooth comb on wet hair instead of a brush, which can cause breakage and pull out strands.
Getting thicker hair is often a journey of patience and consistent care. By nourishing your body, adjusting your hair care habits, and treating your strands gently, you can encourage the full, healthy head of hair you’re looking for.