If you’re looking up how to style thin hair, well, friends, we’re in the same boat. Like many guys, I have fine hair. Not thin per se, but it’s definitely not thick. I think of the texture as kind of a Brian Jones’ mod-era look—that’s my vibe. That said, finer or thin hair comes with its unique set of challenges, so I rely on specific styling to help shape my desired look. Having thin hair doesn’t mean you’re out of options, though, because the right products and techniques can work together to maximize volume and create a fuller appearance.
We often see celebs with thin or finer hair rock luxe locks, but don’t let those red carpet looks intimidate you, since most guys (read: non-celebs) use the same tricks and volumizing products. “If you’ve ever saved a screenshot of an actor’s hair from a red carpet to show your stylist, chances are that look was heavily supported by products—and likely a professional hairdresser,” celebrity hairstylist Aaron King says. “But there are ways to achieve flow and fullness for everyday life. With the right technique and products, finer hair doesn’t have to mean flat hair. It’s all about working with what you’ve got and styling smart.”
With that in mind, we’ve rounded up essential tips on styling thin hair and the best products to use. When it comes to volume and thickness, less is often more, and achieving fuller hair is easier than you might think once you know how.
The Best Hair Products for Thin Hair
Thickening/Texturizing Powders
One of the most popular volumizing options, thickening powders create lift at the root by depositing tiny texture granules. These powders absorb excess oil while creating a light, matte texture that boosts volume without weighing hair down. The fine particles cling to each strand, adding density and making hair appear thicker and fuller.
“They’re great for instant fullness,” Aaron says, “but they also build up on the scalp, making it harder for hair to grow unimpeded. Look for lightweight, breathable products that are easy to remove.” Choosing a powder with fine, non-clumping particles ensures it won’t clog hair follicles, keeping your scalp and hair healthy while maximizing volume.
Texture Sprays
Aaron recommends texture sprays, especially for guys with longer, fine hair. “Similar to thickening powders, texture sprays propel powerful fibers exactly where you want volume,” Aaron explains. Texture sprays help lift hair at the roots by coating each strand, creating a matte or slightly tousled finish, boosting body and thickness throughout the day without weighing hair down.
Matte Clay/Pomade
“Volume is nothing without definition,” Aaron notes. “Hair powders and texture sprays give volume, but without polish or a defined shape, it can look too messy.” Finding the right finishing product can be tricky for thin hair. “Some pomades can leave an oily residue, while certain clays can make hair look puffy and dry,” he explains. Look for a matte formula that provides volume and texture but with a lightweight consistency that doesn’t weigh your hair down or leave a greasy film.
Mousse
When choosing a thickening mousse for thinner hair, look for lightweight, non-greasy formulas that add volume without weighing it down. Choose a mousse with a matte or natural finish to prevent excessive shine, which can make thinning hair more noticeable. ‘It should be applied liberally from root to end,’ says Aaron. Work it into damp hair before blow-drying to maximize lift and hold for best results.
Hairspray
And to lock in the fullness? Hairspray is essential. “If you want your hair to stay in place for most of the day, nothing beats hairspray,” Aaron says. “Look for one with a fine mist and a flexible but sturdy hold—the perfect finishing touch.”
Above all, when choosing styling products, “I don’t look at ingredients as much as I look at function,” Aaron says. “You need a stitch of neutrality in a defining product. It can’t be all matte.”
Styling Tips for Thin Hair
Towel-dried hair is a clean slate for styling thin hair. “This is when you should apply a pre-styling product like a mousse or thickening spray, which is then blow-dried or diffused into the hair. “Blow-drying enhances fullness incredibly,” Aaron explains. “You can double your hair’s diameter with a mousse that’s blow-dried into your hair.” The key is to work the roots while directing the dryer toward your scalp, not just randomly blasting hot air everywhere. Note: “If you’re not using heat, that could be why your hair isn’t as full as you’d like,” he says.
“Be intentional with how you blow-dry in relation to your style,” Aaron advises. “If your hair flows back, blow-dry it back, aiming at the roots. If you style it forward, blow-dry forward while using your hands to move the hair in multiple directions until dry—this takes about a minute for shorter lengths. Even without product, this technique sparks texture, but with a mousse or styling spray, the results are undeniable.” Finally, lock everything in with what Aaron calls “our old reliable”—hairspray. A flexible-hold formula will keep your hair touchable while preventing it from falling flat.
