Struggling with fine or thinning hair? You're not alone, and the good news is that you can learn how to thicken hair naturally without relying on harsh chemicals or expensive treatments.
In this guide, we'll explore simple, effective methods to enhance your hair's volume using everyday ingredients and techniques.
Whether you're dealing with hair loss or just want a fuller look, these natural remedies can help you achieve thicker, healthier hair.
Table of content
How to thicken hair naturally - 13 home remedies
- Eggs: Rich in biotin and vitamins, egg masks can strengthen and thicken hair.
- Olive oil: Provides deep moisture and essential nutrients to promote thicker hair.
- Coconut oil: Replenishes scalp moisture and protects hair against damage with antioxidants.
- Aloe vera: Improves blood circulation and scalp health, promoting hair growth.
- Avocado: Packed with vitamins and fatty acids, it nourishes and moisturizes the scalp.
- Castor oil: Rich in vitamin E and fatty acids, it strengthens hair follicles.
- Orange puree: Improves hair sheen and clears residue that can impede growth.
- Fenugreek seeds: Increases blood flow to the scalp, strengthening hair follicles.
- Onion juice: Contains sulfur that promotes collagen production and hair growth.
- Yogurt and honey: Combines protein and humectants to nourish and thicken hair.
- Green tea: Rich in antioxidants that nourish the scalp and promote growth.
- Banana and carrot: Packed with vitamins that enhance healthy hair growth.
- Rosemary oil: Stimulates hair growth and improves hair thickness.
1. Eggs
Eggs are a powerhouse of nutrients that can significantly benefit your hair. "Egg yolk masks are loaded with biotin, folate, and several vitamins that can improve hair health and reduce hair loss," says Dr. Jerry Friedman.
To use eggs for thicker hair, beat one or two eggs and apply the mixture to damp hair and scalp. Leave it on for 30 minutes before rinsing with warm water and a mild shampoo.
Mix egg yolks with a tablespoon of olive oil and two tablespoons of water for a more intensive treatment, then follow the same application process.
Using egg treatments once or twice a week can yield noticeable improvements in hair strength and thickness.
2. Olive Oil
Olive oil is rich in omega-3 acids and other nutrients essential for hair health. Warm olive oil directly to the scalp can promote thicker hair by providing deep moisture and nutrients.
Heat the oil to body temperature, massage it into your scalp and hair, and leave it on for 30-45 minutes before washing it out with a mild shampoo.
Some people add honey to the olive oil for added benefits. You can also leave the oil on overnight for more intense hydration.
Regular use of olive oil helps moisturize the scalp, reducing dandruff and preventing hair breakage.
3. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is a versatile and effective remedy for hair thickening. "Coconut oil is also an excellent way to replenish scalp moisture and also contains antioxidants that protect hair against damage," says Dr. Zev Schulhof.
To use, warm a couple of tablespoons of coconut oil, apply it to your hair and scalp, and leave it on overnight. Wash your hair with shampoo the next morning.
Coconut oil not only moisturizes but also strengthens hair, reduces protein loss, and promotes growth.
Use it regularly for best results; as Dr. Jerry Friedman suggests, "Most home remedies can be safely used at least once per week, while others, such as coconut oil, can be applied more frequently."
4. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is well-known for its soothing and healing properties, making it an excellent choice for scalp health. Massaging aloe vera into the scalp can improve blood circulation, which promotes hair growth and lessens hair loss.
Aloe vera's anti-inflammatory and moisturizing properties also improve scalp health.
To use, apply pure aloe gel to the scalp and hair, leave it on for 30 minutes, and rinse with a mild shampoo.
Using this treatment once or twice a week can help improve hair thickness and overall scalp condition.
5. Avocado
Avocado is packed with vitamins and fatty acids that nourish and moisturize the scalp. To make an avocado hair mask, mash the fruit of one avocado with a tablespoon of olive oil.
Apply the mixture to your hair and scalp, let it sit for about 30 minutes, then wash thoroughly with a mild shampoo.
This treatment can be used twice a week to help strengthen and thicken hair while also providing deep hydration and shine.
6. Castor Oil
Castor oil is another natural remedy known for its hair-thickening properties. It is rich in vitamin E and fatty acids that nourish the scalp and improve hair health.
To use, rub castor oil over your scalp and hair until the hair is well-coated. Leave it on for about 30 minutes before washing it out with a mild shampoo.
Regular use of castor oil can help in reducing hair fall and promoting thicker hair growth.
7. Orange Puree
Oranges are rich in vitamin C, pectin, and acid, which can benefit hair in various ways. The vitamins and nutrients in oranges can improve the hair's natural sheen, making it appear thicker. The acid helps break apart residue from hair products that can interfere with hair growth.
To use, blend fresh oranges into a puree, massage it into your hair and scalp, and leave it on for about an hour before rinsing.
This treatment can be used weekly to help thicken hair and enhance its overall health.
8. Fenugreek Seeds
Fenugreek seeds are an excellent natural remedy for increasing blood flow to the scalp. To use, soak fenugreek seeds in water overnight, grind them into a paste the next morning, and apply the paste to your hair and scalp.
Leave it on for about 30 minutes before rinsing with warm water.
This treatment can help strengthen hair follicles and promote thicker hair growth. "Fenugreek seeds are an excellent natural remedy for increasing blood flow to the scalp," says Dr. Jerry Friedman from North Jersey Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery.
Using fenugreek seeds once a week can yield noticeable results over time.
9. Onion Juice
While it may sound unusual, onion juice is highly effective in promoting hair growth and thickness. Onion juice contains sulfur, which helps in collagen production and promotes hair growth.
Extract the juice from a few onions, apply it to your scalp, and leave it on for 15-20 minutes before rinsing with a mild shampoo. Regular use of onion juice can help awaken dormant hair follicles and improve hair density.
10. Yogurt and Honey
Yogurt and honey are a powerful combination for hair health. Yogurt provides protein and fatty acids, while honey is a natural humectant that locks in moisture.
To make a hair mask, mix two tablespoons of yogurt with one tablespoon of honey, apply the mixture to your hair and scalp, and leave it on for 30 minutes before washing it out.
This remedy can help in nourishing and thickening hair when used once a week.
11. Green Tea
Green tea is rich in antioxidants that can benefit hair health. To use, brew a strong cup of green tea, let it cool, and use it as a rinse after shampooing your hair.
Leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing with cool water. The antioxidants in green tea nourish the scalp, promote hair growth, and help in thickening hair.
This treatment can be used once or twice a week.
12. Banana and Carrot
Bananas and carrots are loaded with vitamins and minerals that can promote healthy hair growth.
To make a hair mask, mix a ripe banana with carrot juice until you get a smooth paste. Apply the mixture to your hair and scalp, leave it on for 30 minutes, then rinse with a mild shampoo.
This natural remedy provides deep nourishment and can help thicken hair when used regularly.
13. Rosemary Oil
Rosemary oil is known for stimulating hair growth and improving hair thickness. "Rosemary oil's effectiveness in promoting hair growth is comparable to minoxidil," says a 2015 study.
Mix a few drops of rosemary oil with a carrier oil like olive or coconut oil, massage it into your scalp, and leave it on for at least an hour before washing it out.
Regular use of rosemary oil can help in thickening hair and improving overall scalp health.
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Why does hair thinning happen?
Thin hair can be a concern for both women and men. It can affect your hair's overall volume and make the scalp more visible. But there's a difference between thin hair and hair thickness.
Hair thickness refers to the diameter of each strand, while hair density refers to how much hair grows on your scalp. So, you can have fine hair strands (thin hair) but a high density (lots of hair), making your hair look thick overall.
Here's how to know if your hair is thin:
- Hair appears flat or limp
- Scalp is easily visible, especially when parting your hair
- Hair sheds more than usual
- Difficulty achieving hairstyles that hold volume
What causes hair loss?
Here are some of the most common causes of hair loss:
- Genetics: Hair loss is often hereditary. If you have a family history of hair loss, you are more likely to experience it yourself.
- Hormones: Changes in hormone levels can cause hair loss. This can happen during pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, and andropause (the male equivalent of menopause).
- Aging: As we age, our hair follicles naturally produce less hair. This can lead to thinning hair and baldness.
- Medical conditions: Several medical conditions can cause hair loss, including thyroid disease, lupus, and alopecia areata.
- Medications: Some medications can cause hair loss as a side effect.
Worry not, as there are ways to make the hair appear thicker.
Upgrade your routine with the best hair care solutions for thin hair. handpicked by experts for real results.
What to do if these don't work?
While it's unlikely, there will be cases where trying these natural methods will not work for your thin hair or hair loss.
In these cases, we recommend consulting with a health professional who can carefully analyze your scalp situation and recommend hair loss medications, hair extensions, or a hair transplant.
A better approach for your overall hair health
Tired of watching your hair thin year after year despite trying various treatments? Scandinavian Biolabs' Bio-Pilixin Activation Serum, trusted by over 100k people worldwide, offers a natural, science-backed solution.
Developed by scientists and dermatologists, this serum uses nature-inspired, clinically-tested ingredients. In a 150-day study, 93% of users saw reduced hair shedding and 73% experienced visibly thicker hair.
Bio-Pilixin's success lies in its revolutionary formula, featuring Capilia Longa, which can decrease hair fall by up to 89% and improve hair density by up to 52%.
Stimulating actives like caffeine promote faster growth and reduce breakage. With a fast-absorbing texture, it's easy to use at home and achieve thicker hair in as little as 45 days.
Try it risk-free for 150 days and see the results for yourself.
Lifestyle changes to thicken hair naturally
To thicken your hair naturally, small adjustments in your daily routine can make a big difference. Here are some effective strategies to consider:
Gentle hairstyling and scalp massage
The American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD) advises that thin hair is more prone to damage. Here are some tips to protect it:
- Use a gentle shampoo that retains moisture.
- Apply a moisturizing conditioner to minimize breakage and split ends.
- Use a leave-in conditioner after washing to prevent frizz and further damage.
- Wrap your hair in a microfiber towel before blow-drying to reduce stress on the strands.
Avoid heat-styling tools like curling or flat irons, which can weaken hair. Instead, try looser styles and avoid tight ponytails or buns that can lead to permanent hair loss.
A 2016 study found that regular scalp massages over 24 weeks significantly increased hair thickness.
Grow thicker hair with a nutrient-rich diet
What you eat plays a crucial role in your hair health. Deficiencies in vitamins and nutrients like Biotin, Iron, Selenium, and protein can cause your hair to thin and become brittle. Here's a quick guide to essential nutrients and the foods they come from:
- Vitamin A: Found in fish, eggs, oranges, yellow vegetables like bell peppers and carrots, and dark leafy greens such as spinach and broccoli.
- Vitamin B: Available in dairy products, eggs, spinach, salmon, seafood, chicken, and beef.
- Vitamin C: Sourced from citrus fruits, berries, kiwi, broccoli, and potatoes.
- Vitamin D: Present in fatty fish, beef liver, fortified foods, egg yolks, and mushrooms.
- Iron: Found in liver, red meat, spinach, pumpkin seeds, poultry, quinoa, and shellfish.
- Zinc: Present in red meat, poultry, shellfish, beans, lentils, nuts, seeds, eggs, whole grain bread, and dairy.
- Protein: Available in eggs, poultry, pork, veal, shellfish, dairy, oats, broccoli, and almonds.
Making these simple lifestyle changes and incorporating nutrient-rich foods into your diet can help you achieve naturally thicker, healthier hair.
Conclusion
In conclusion, achieving thicker, fuller hair is possible through natural remedies and lifestyle changes.
Focus on scalp and nutrient health by adopting simple tactics like eating a balanced diet rich in essential proteins, vitamins, and minerals, reducing stress, getting regular scalp massages, and protecting your hair from damage.
Pair these routines with occasional hair masks and supplements for extra nourishment. While results may take time, committing to a natural hair thickening regimen can help you reach your goal without risky medications or expensive treatments.
By implementing these easy, natural techniques, you can transform thin hair into the thick, healthy hair you've always wanted.
Reference
- Goluch-Koniuszy ZS. Nutrition of women with hair loss problem during the period of menopause. Prz Menopauzalny. 2016 Mar;15(1):56-61. doi: 10.5114/pm.2016.58776. Epub 2016 Mar 29. PMID: 27095961; PMCID: PMC4828511.
- Prager N, Bickett K, French N, Marcovici G. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial to determine the effectiveness of botanically derived inhibitors of 5-alpha-reductase in the treatment of androgenetic alopecia. J Altern Complement Med. 2002 Apr;8(2):143-52. doi: 10.1089/acm.2002.8.143. Erratum in: J Altern Complement Med. 2006 Mar;12(2):199. PMID: 12006122.
- https://academic.oup.com/bjd/article-abstract/165/s3/24/6642714
- https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4923/13/12/2163
- https://www.phcogrev.com/sites/default/files/PhcogRev-2-3-185.pdf
- https://www.ingentaconnect.com/content/ben/cddt/2015/00000012/00000001/art00004
