The secrets to fuller locks, no magic potions required
Battling fine strands, thinning spots, or just dreaming of that bouncy, full-bodied look? Girl, you’re not the only one. The quest for thicker hair sometimes feels like chasing a unicorn—elusive and borderline mythical. The good news is that achieving thicker hair isn’t just for people with amazing genetics or a full glam squad.
From must-try products to tried-and-tested techniques like scalp care and extensions, this guide spills all the tea. Ready to transform your tresses? Keep reading for everything you need to know.
Hair thickness 101
The science behind hair thickness is a combination of three key factors: strand diameter (how thick each individual hair is), density (how many strands you have per square inch), and overall hair health. Some of us are blessed with naturally thick hair, while others might struggle with finer strands or thinning areas. While this is largely due to genetics, the right care can make a real difference in the volume of your hair.
Stress, aging, and damage from over-styling or harsh products can wreak havoc on your hair’s volume. Hormonal shifts and even diet play a massive role, too (looking at you, nutrient deficiencies). For many, the issue isn’t just hair falling out—it’s strands growing back weaker and finer over time.
The takeaway: Thicker hair starts with understanding its structure and treating it like the VIP it is. From proper nutrition to scalp TLC, there’s plenty you can do to give your locks a fighting chance. Wondering how you can get your hair to grow thicker? Keep reading.
Daily habits for thicker hair
Achieving thicker hair isn’t just about fancy products (though we’ll get to those)—it’s about the small, consistent habits that keep your hair and scalp happy. These are non-negotiables for anyone dreaming of full, lush locks.
☐ Give your scalp some love
Your scalp is basically the soil for your hair—healthy roots mean stronger strands. Regular scalp massages boost blood flow, delivering oxygen and nutrients to hair follicles. Use your fingertips or a scalp massager, and add a nourishing oil like Moroccanoil Treatment to double down on hydration and growth.
☐ Eat for your hair
Your hair is what you eat. Nutrients like biotin, omega-3 fatty acids, and zinc are essential for growth and thickness. Load up on foods like salmon, walnuts, spinach, and eggs. If your diet’s not cutting it, consider a supplement designed for hair health (just check with a doctor first).
☐ Be gentle with washing
Overwashing strips your scalp of natural oils, leaving strands dry and brittle. Aim for two to three washes per week with a sulfate-free shampoo to cleanse without compromising moisture.
☐ Ditch harsh products
Products packed with sulfates, parabens, or alcohol are no friend to your hair. Opt for gentle, hydrating formulas that protect and nourish. Pro tip: Always read ingredient lists. It’s like swiping left on bad dates, but for your haircare.
☐ Protect while you sleep
Your pillowcase could be sabotaging your strands. Swap out cotton for silk or satin to reduce friction, prevent breakage, and keep your hair smoother overnight. Your locks need their beauty sleep, too!
Small shifts in your routine can lead to big results (and even bigger hair!). Stick with these habits, and your hair will thank you with every bouncy, thicker strand it delivers.
Best products for thicker hair
Achieving thicker, fuller hair is a mix of using the right products and maintaining consistent habits. The market is packed with options, but we’ve curated the ultimate list of shampoos, conditioners, serums, and treatments that truly deliver on their promises.
Moroccanoil Extra Volume Shampoo and Conditioner
If fine, flat hair is your nemesis, Moroccanoil Extra Volume Shampoo and Conditioner are your heroes. Infused with antioxidant-rich argan oil and fortifying nutrients, these products cleanse and hydrate without weighing your hair down.
The shampoo gently lifts roots, while the conditioner smooths strands, leaving your hair light, bouncy, and visibly thicker. Plus, the signature Moroccanoil scent turns every wash into a mini spa moment. Perfect for everyday use, this duo sets the stage for fuller, more lively hair.
Moroccanoil Root Boost Spray
For instant volume, Moroccanoil Root Boost Spray is a game-changer. Designed for all hair types, this lightweight spray delivers texture and lift right at the roots. Unlike traditional volumizers that leave hair stiff or sticky, this formula creates natural-looking body while nourishing your scalp.
Use it before blow-drying to lock in volume and enjoy a style that lasts all day. Bonus: it also helps protect your hair from heat damage. Whether you’re going for loose curls or sleek waves, this spray ensures your hair looks full and fabulous.
Mielle Rosemary Mint Scalp & Hair Strengthening Oil
When it comes to promoting hair growth and thickness, Mielle’s Rosemary Mint Scalp & Hair Strengthening Oil is a must-try. Rosemary oil has long been praised for its scalp-stimulating properties, and Mielle combines it with over 30 other essential oils and biotin for maximum impact.
Massage it into your scalp to improve circulation and nourish your hair follicles, or use it as a deep-conditioning treatment for your ends. This oil is a perfect addition to your routine, especially if you’re looking to boost growth and thickness naturally.
The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair Density
Looking for a lightweight solution that packs a punch? The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair Density is a concentrated formula that enhances hair thickness and density. Featuring peptides, caffeine, and amino acids, this serum targets thinning areas while improving overall hair health.
Apply a few drops to your scalp before bed, and let the serum work its magic overnight. It’s perfect for those who want a no-fuss solution to thicker hair without added heaviness.
Aveda Invati Advanced Scalp Revitalizer
Your scalp is the foundation of healthy hair, and Aveda’s Invati Advanced Scalp Revitalizer gives it the care it deserves. This daily treatment reduces hair loss by invigorating your scalp and extending the life of your strands. Its blend of plant-powered ingredients, including turmeric and ginseng, promotes thicker, healthier hair over time.
The best part? It’s lightweight enough for daily use, so you can build it seamlessly into your routine without any greasy residue.
Briogeo Blossom & Bloom Ginseng + Biotin Volumizing Spray
For those who want instant gratification, Briogeo’s Blossom & Bloom Ginseng + Biotin Volumizing Spray delivers visible volume with a dose of long-term benefits. The biotin and ginseng-infused formula thickens hair shafts while providing essential nutrients to your strands.
Spray it onto damp hair, focus on your roots, and style as usual. The result? Fuller-looking hair with added texture and bounce. Bonus points for its clean, sulfate-free ingredients that cater to even the most sensitive scalps.
✨ TYME tip ✨If you’re looking for a natural way to promote hair growth, rosemary essential oil is your go-to. Studies suggest it can stimulate blood flow to the scalp, encouraging stronger and thicker strands. Mix a few drops of rosemary essential oil with a carrier oil like Moroccanoil Treatment and massage it into your scalp once or twice a week. This DIY treatment is a simple yet effective addition to your hair-thickening routine. |
Techniques and tools for volume
Sometimes, your hair just needs a little nudge in the right direction. Whether it’s adding some oomph at the roots or faking fullness with clever tricks, working with what you’ve got can go a long way.
Heat styling with the TYME Iron Pro
When it comes to creating fuller-looking hair, curling is one of the simplest tricks in the book. The TYME Iron Pro makes it even easier to fake thickness by adding dimension and movement to your strands.
Its dual-purpose design allows you to create everything from soft waves to defined curls without juggling multiple tools. By curling sections of hair away from your face and alternating directions, you can create a natural, layered effect that gives the illusion of extra volume.
Bonus: The titanium plates ensure even heat distribution, which is kinder to your hair while keeping your curls intact longer. Start curling closer to your roots for added lift, and don’t forget a heat protectant to keep your strands healthy.
Blow-drying tips
Blow-drying is your chance to set the foundation for volume. The trick? Technique. Apply a volumizing spray, like Moroccanoil Root Boost Spray, to damp hair, focusing on your roots. Use a round brush to lift small sections as you dry, angling the nozzle upward to add height and movement.
For even more bounce, flip your head upside down during the final few minutes of drying. Finish with a blast of cool air to lock everything in place and smooth down frizz. Done right, your blowout will leave your hair looking naturally fuller without feeling stiff or weighed down.
Hair extensions and toppers
How to get thicker hair overnight? It’s not possible with products and lifestyle changes, but extensions and toppers are the ultimate cheat code for instant volume.
Clip-in extensions are perfect for boosting the fullness of your ends, while toppers add height and coverage at the crown. When shopping, go for 100% human hair for the most seamless blend with your natural tresses, and make sure the texture matches.
To apply, tease the roots where the extensions will sit for a secure grip, then layer your natural hair over the clips to hide them. Styling your extensions alongside your own hair—whether curling or blow-drying—will help everything blend effortlessly. Toppers are especially handy for thinning areas, offering a quick fix for fuller-looking hair.
Lifestyle changes for hair health
Self-care shows up in your strands, and small tweaks in your daily routine can actually influence how thick your hair is. Let’s start with the basics…
Keep stress in check
Stress doesn’t just mess with your mood—it messes with your hair, too. High cortisol levels can lead to shedding, thinning, and slowed growth. To keep your scalp happy, find ways to unwind that work for you. Whether it’s yoga, meditation, journaling, or even dancing around your living room, consistent stress relief can keep your hair (and mind) in a better place.
And if you’ve never had a Japanese head spa, this is your sign to get one booked in! A scalp massage not only feels AMAZING but boosts circulation for stronger, healthier hair.
Get enough Zzzs and H²O
Your hair needs beauty sleep as much as you do. Aim for 7–9 hours of quality rest to give your body time to repair and rejuvenate. Hydration is just as important, so keep that water bottle close. Healthy, hydrated hair starts from the inside out, and your strands will thank you for it.
Avoid heat and chemical overload
We all love a good style moment, but heat tools and harsh chemicals can take a serious toll on your hair. Limit their use when you can, and always protect your strands when you can’t. Remember, a heat protectant is non-negotiable. Between styles, we’d also recommend giving your hair a break with nourishing masks or oil treatments to help it recover and rebuild. Think of it as hitting the reset button for your strands.
Thicker hair is in your reach
You’ve probably realized by now that getting thicker hair isn’t a quick fix—it’s a mix of smart habits, targeted products, and styling hacks that work for you. Start small, stay consistent, and watch your strands transform. For more expert hair tips and tricks, head over to the LifeTYME blog and keep your routine on point.
