While there is no way to change the texture of the hair follicles, there are many ways to make the hair appear thicker and reduce breakage and hair loss, such as eating a nutritious diet and scalp massage.
Thin or thinning hair is common and can affect anyone. Aging, chemical allergies, illnesses, and poor nutrition are just some of the factors that may contribute.
In this article, we list several natural ways to make the hair look and feel thicker that a person can try at home. We also describe products, such as shampoos and supplements, that may help.
What does the research say?
Hair loss can develop differently, depending on a person’s sex.
For example, the British Association of Dermatologists reports that female pattern hair loss typically affects people aged 30 or older and causes thinning of hair on the crown of the head. It also says that the hair may appear shorter in other areas. There is currently no cure.
Remedies to thicken hair
A person might try home care strategies, but these should not replace professional treatment for an underlying health condition that may be causing thin hair, such as a nutritional deficiency or alopecia.
The natural remedies below may help thicken thin hair, regardless of whether further treatment is necessary.
Eggs
Eggs are rich in protein, which is essential for strong, thick hair.
To use an egg treatment:
- Beat 1 or 2 eggs together.
- Apply the mixture to the scalp and damp hair.
- Leave it on the scalp for about 30 minutes.
- Wash the hair thoroughly with warm water and mild shampoo.
Alternately, combine the eggs with oil and water. To try this method:
- Mix egg yolks, 1 tablespoon (tbsp) olive oil, and 2 tbsp of water.
- Apply the mixture to the scalp and dry hair.
- Leave it on for 15 minutes.
- Wash it out with warm water and a mild shampoo.
Using an egg treatment once or twice a week for several weeks might help strengthen and thicken the hair.
Olive oil
Olive oil is rich in omega-3 acids and other nutrients that are essential for overall health, including hair health. When applied directly, olive oil helps promote thicker hair. It may also soften the hair and moisturize any dry areas of the scalp.
To use olive oil:
- Heat the oil to body temperature.
- Massage the warm oil into the scalp and hair.
- Leave it on for about 30–45 minutes.
- Wash it out with mild shampoo.
Some people add honey to the olive oil. Others recommend leaving the oil on overnight while wearing a shower cap.
Proper nutrition
A nutritious diet that contains healthy fats, protein, and a range of vitamins can help thicken thinning or thin hair. In fact, thin hair can be a sign that a person is not getting enough nutrients.
Anyone with thin hair might consider incorporating some of the following nutrient-rich foods into their diet:
- salmon, which is rich in protein and fatty acids
- eggs, which contain protein, omega-3s, and iron
- walnuts, almonds, and other nuts, which are sources of fatty acids
- Greek yogurt, which is a source of protein
- green, black, pinto, or other beans, which contain protein
A person might add 1 or 2 servings of any of these foods to their diet every day. Even adding 3 or 4 servings a week might improve hair health.
Orange puree
Vitamin C, pectin, and acid in oranges can help the hair in a few different ways.
The vitamins and nutrients may improve the hair’s natural sheen, which may make it appear thicker.
The acid helps break apart residue from hair products that may interfere with hair growth. Unlike some of the other treatments, orange puree also has a pleasant scent.
To make the puree, blend fresh oranges, then massage the mixture into the hair and scalp. Leave it on for about 1 hour before washing it out.
A person might use a light conditioner to rehydrate their hair after this treatment.
Aloe gel or oil
The Aloe vera plant may have various health benefits for the skin, scalp, and hair.
Applying aloe oil directly to the hair and scalp may help strengthen the hair and thicken it over time. Several commercial treatments, including gels and creams, contain aloe as an active ingredient.
For a homemade treatment, try rubbing some pure aloe gel into the hair and scalp and letting it sit for 30 minutes before washing it out. Some people mix the aloe with coconut oil or olive oil.
A person might use this treatment once or twice a week.
Avocado
Avocado is rich in vitamin E, and many people believe it to be a good moisturizer. A person might apply a simple avocado rub twice a week.
To make an avocado rub:
- Combine the fruit of 1 avocado with 1 tbsp olive oil.
- Apply the mixture to the hair and scalp.
- Let it sit for about 30 minutes.
- Wash thoroughly with mild shampoo.
Castor oil
Castor oil is also rich in vitamin E and fatty acids, which may help hair health.
A person can rub the oil over their scalp and hair until the hair is coated. Leave it on for about 30 minutes before washing it out.
Coconut oil
A
A
different 2015
study observed that coconut oil can thicken the hair and
stimulate its growth.
Read our article about using coconut oil for the hair.
Rosemary
oil
People
can apply rosemary oil directly
to their scalp or mix it with their regular shampoo.
A
Hairstyling
and scalp massage
The American
Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD) explains that thin
hair is fragile and has an increased risk of damage. The association provides
these tips for people with hair loss:
- using a gentle
shampoo that does not remove moisture
- using a
moisturizing conditioner to reduce breakage and split ends
- applying a
leave-in conditioner after washing and conditioning to prevent frizz and
breakage
- wrapping the hair
in a microfiber towel before blow-drying it
The AAD also
warns against using curling or flat irons, as these can weaken the hair. A
person might also reconsider other styling options. For example, pulling the
hair back in a ponytail or bun can lead to permanent hair loss over time.
Scalp
massage
A
