Help, I'm Losing My Hair!

For most women, hair loss is associated with old age, but thinning hair can strike at any time. A variety of factors — such as pregnancy, stress, a sudden illness or change in diet, even a bad coloring or chemical straightening — can cause or contribute to an unexpected and noticeable reduction in your hair’s thickness. That volume may not come back, but there are ways to camouflage thin locks and prevent future hair loss, says Les Haverty, artistic director for FHI Heat professional styling tools. Whether your thinning hair is genetic or triggered by circumstance, you need to avoid products and styling techniques that will exacerbate the problem.

Choose Your Shampoo

Start by evaluating what’s in your shower, says Haverty. Volumizing shampoos and conditioners are a must, but avoid products that contain humectants. These hygroscopic compounds absorb water and moisture from the air and will weigh down your locks. Stay away from heavy moisturizers, which will do the same. Give your head a thorough rinse in warm, tepid water (make sure all the conditioner is removed) and de-tangle gently with a wide-tooth comb.

Style Smart

Apply a styling product that’s formulated for fine hair — a whipped mousse, light gel, or a spray gel or spray foam, says Haverty. Be sure to start at the scalp and apply to problem areas where you want more volume, like the crown.

If you blow-dry your hair, says Haverty, the best technique is to flip your head upside down. It’s an old trick, but a good one. “The more you lift the hair up over the line where it grows, the more volume you can get,” notes Haverty. Use a boar-bristle brush to style as you dry, gently directing hair over your head. If your blow-dryer has a cold setting, give your locks a cooling blast when you’re done styling. This works like a natural hair spray, freezing the memory of the hair, says Haverty. Finally, add a last-minute touch of finishing spray to hold the volume.