She Strengthens

The Lowdown on Hair Thickness: What You Need to Know

Hair thickness is a universal concern that affects us all at some point. Whether you’re dealing with hair loss due to medical conditions like alopecia or chemotherapy, or simply wanting to achieve a fuller, healthier-looking mane, understanding hair thickness is crucial.

So, What’s the Difference Between Thick and Thin Hair?

Thick hair is characterized by a high density of hair follicles per square inch of scalp, resulting in a lot of hair that’s often difficult to manage. On the other hand, thin hair has a lower density of hair follicles, making it easier to style but often lacking in volume.

How to Determine Your Hair Type

Figuring out whether you have thick or thin hair is relatively simple. Here are some telltale signs:

• Thick hair:
  • You have to comb or brush your hair frequently to keep it under control.
  • Your hair takes a long time to dry after washing.
  • You have a lot of volume naturally.
  • Your hair casts a shadow when the sun is behind you.
• Thin hair:
  • You have a lot of visible scalp.
  • Combs and brushes glide through your hair easily.
  • Your hair dries quickly.
  • You need to use a lot of hair spray or back-comb to achieve volume.

The Science Behind Hair Thickness

Hair thickness is determined by the number of hair follicles per square inch of scalp, as well as the diameter of individual strands. While we don’t measure hair thickness in hairs-per-square-inch, understanding the characteristics of thick and thin hair can help you tailor your hair care routine.

Porosity: Another Factor to Consider

Porosity refers to how well your hair absorbs moisture. This is influenced by the outermost layer of the hair strand and its proximity to the core. You can test your hair porosity by dropping a strand in a glass of water. If it floats before sinking, you have low porosity.

Can You Change Your Hair Type?

While it’s not possible to change your hair type overnight, there are some ways to influence it. Minoxidil has been shown to prevent hair thinning to some degree. Additionally, using shampoos and conditioners designed for your desired hair type can help. For example, keratin-based shampoos can reduce thickness, while biotin-based products can increase it.

Tips for Thicker Hair

To achieve thicker hair, focus on getting the nutrients and vitamins your hair needs. B-complex vitamins are particularly important for hair growth. A balanced diet and natural remedies like upping your B-vitamin intake can also help.

Tips for Thinner Hair

If you’re looking to achieve thinner hair, consider a haircut or permanent/nonpermanent straightening treatments. Blow-dry creams can also help protect your hair against heat.

The Bottom Line

Hair thickness is determined by the density of hair follicles and individual strand diameter. By understanding your hair type and taking care of your locks, you can achieve the look you want. Remember, hair is important, and we should look after it, regardless of its thickness!