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How Do I Choose the Best Thinning Hair Products?

Madeleine A.
Madeleine A.

Choosing the best thinning hair products depend upon budget, reason for thinning hair and the person's age. If your hair is thinning because of a medical condition, you should choose products that treat your underlying condition. It may also be advisable to talk with a doctor or other health care provider to find an appropriate thinning hair product if your thinning hair is related to a medical problem. Other people with thinning hair may use a trial-and-error approach to find a non-medicinal product to help with their problem.

Thinning hair can be caused by genetics, medical conditions such as hypothyroidism and alopecia, hormonal imbalances, and certain medications. In addition, stress, anemia, wearing the hair in tight hairstyles, and chemically treating the hair with permanent solutions and hair dyes can also cause thinning hair.

Blonde hair extensions.
Blonde hair extensions.

Volumizers are some of the most popular thinning hair products and work to make the hair appear thicker. These products include hair mousse, and shampoos that contain proteins that add volume and weight to the hair. Other thinning hair products include chemical perms. Although the chemicals used in the actual permanent solution can cause the hair to thin and break off, a curly perm can give the hair a voluminous appearance.

A man with thinning hair.
A man with thinning hair.

Other thinning hair products include minoxidil, which is sometimes used in the treatment of hair loss. Minoxidil can be purchased over the counter, however, it can cause side effects such as irritation and burning of the scalp, and is not suitable for children. A health care provider should be consulted prior to using minoxidil because it may not be appropriate for those who have certain medical conditions or who are taking certain prescription medications.

Spray-on pigments may help cover thinning hair.
Spray-on pigments may help cover thinning hair.

Special aerosol sprays are also examples of thinning hair products. These pigmented sprays cover bald spots left by thinning hair and are applied in a manner similar to the way spray paint is applied. Sprays that disguise the effects of thinning hair, however, typically only come in limited colors, so getting an exact match may not be possible. Covering sprays are available at many drug store chains and beauty supply stores, and are easily washed off the scalp and hair. Sometimes, allergic reactions can occur when using covering sprays and include burning, irritation and redness.

Shampoos that contain proteins add volume and weight to hair.
Shampoos that contain proteins add volume and weight to hair.

Since stress might play a role in hair loss or thinning hair, measures to manage stress may prove beneficial in stopping hair loss. Eating healthy, getting enough sleep, and exercising can help keep stress levels in check, as can maintaining meaningful relationships, socializing, and enjoying hobbies. If stress becomes unmanageable, the individual should talk to his health care provider who can explain treatment options. Effective treatment options to reduce stress may include talking to a mental health professional and taking anti-anxiety or anti-depressant medications.

Thinning hair can be caused by genetics, medical conditions and hormonal imbalances.
Thinning hair can be caused by genetics, medical conditions and hormonal imbalances.

When thinning hair becomes noticeable, and does not respond to volumizing shampoos or other hair thinning products, consulting with a licensed cosmetologist may help. Thinning hair products that are available through beauty salons include hair extensions, hair pieces and weaves. In addition, hair restoration professionals can explain effective treatments to manage thinning hair and hair loss.

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    • Blonde hair extensions.
      By: pavel Chernobrivets
      Blonde hair extensions.
    • A man with thinning hair.
      By: draganica
      A man with thinning hair.
    • Spray-on pigments may help cover thinning hair.
      By: difught
      Spray-on pigments may help cover thinning hair.
    • Shampoos that contain proteins add volume and weight to hair.
      By: Africa Studio
      Shampoos that contain proteins add volume and weight to hair.
    • Thinning hair can be caused by genetics, medical conditions and hormonal imbalances.
      By: diego cervo
      Thinning hair can be caused by genetics, medical conditions and hormonal imbalances.