Pump Up the Volume: Hairstyles for Thin Hair

A deep side part instantly adds volume at the roots, giving thin hair a fuller appearance. Parting your hair a few inches off-center lets one side naturally lift while the other side adds balance. This simple shift works with most haircuts and helps avoid the flat, limp look that a center part can create. Use a volumizing spray or mousse to lock in the lift and keep hair from falling flat by midday.

The long bob—or lob—is a go-to cut for thin hair because it adds movement without weighing hair down. Ending around the collarbone, it frames the face and offers enough length for versatile styling. Add subtle layers for texture, and use a texturizing spray or sea salt mist to bring out soft, natural waves. For the thickest look, ask your stylist to keep the ends blunt.

Choppy, eye-grazing bangs give the illusion of density around the face. Skip heavy, straight-across fringe and go for soft, uneven bangs that can be worn parted or swept to the side. This cut flatters most face shapes and adds interest without overwhelming fine hair. For best results, style with a lightweight balm to avoid separation or piece-y gaps.

One of the best hairstyles for fine, thin hair? Hardly any hair at all! A short haircut can actually make thin hair appear thicker than it actually is. Try a choppy, layered pixie for instant texture and volume, and style it with a light balm or paste to add definition without weighing your hair down. Bonus: a pixie cut is extremely low maintenance. In addition to looking adorable, you’ll have extra time for your busy life!

Hair is pulled down by its own weight. The longer your locks, the flatter your hair can seem. Fight the force of gravity by keeping your thin, fine hair medium-length or above for a fuller look. If you want shoulder-sweeping strands or longer, leave the layering behind and always make sure to go for a blunt cut to add sharpness and definition. The bluntness at the ends will make your hair appear thicker and healthier. Make sure your stylist sticks with scissors to trim your tresses, and never uses thinning shears or a razor unless it’s a straight edge.

For an instant injection of volume, there’s nothing like a wrapped ponytail. Ladies with thick hair can make do with their own locks, but when you have thin hair, you have to fake it ‘til you make it. Pull your hair up into a messy ponytail⁠—the higher, the better. Then, with an imitation hair ponytail wrap that matches your hair color as closely as possible, fasten your pony in place. Not only does this give the illusion that you have hair for days, it also gives your ponytail some height off your scalp better than a standard band.

When you have thin hair, regular hanging braids can look scrawny and tend to just accentuate how little hair you have. But that doesn’t mean you have to give up on braids altogether. A milkmaid braid, or a braided crown, is the perfect alternative. Not only is it a ridiculously simple look to pull off, but it creates the illusion of having more hair than you actually do by adding much-needed height and texture at the crown. Simply make two braids, one on each side of your head, and secure them over and across the top of your head like a headband. Instant updo!

Stacked or angled bobs have long been the go-to hairstyles for women with thin, fine hair. Hair is shortest and layered up at the nape of the neck, adding instant volume to the crown. But unlike a classic bob, the hair gradually gets longer as it approaches the face, usually falling below the chin. The asymmetry of this cut adds unexpected edginess to an otherwise ordinary ‘do. To keep your angled bob looking its best, always use a volumizing shampoo and conditioner, then blow dry or straighten.

Add effortless dimension and lift to your fine, thin hair simply by slicking it back. Forgo your part, and comb your fingers back through your hair with wax or pomade for instant texture and hold. Shorter hair can be secured with bobby pins, while longer hair can be held back with a hairband. Slightly rough it up at the roots for volume before finishing with a spritz of hairspray.

Headbands and other hair accessories are a shortcut to adding bulk to your hairstyle, creating the illusion of body.

• A floral headband or clip that compliments your hair color is an easy way to add instant height to your hair. If you’re blonde, go with pale pink or yellow blossoms. Redheads should choose jewel hues like magenta, while dark-haired ladies should pick deep purples and dark reds.
• A sparkly or metallic headband breaks up the texture of your locks and adds visual interest, making your hair appear thicker.