Achieving the perfect easy good hair day is always something of an accomplishment. Styling your hair can be quite a challenge to take on, but it doesn’t have to be. And knowing and understanding your hair type is one of the most important aspects of getting it right. This is especially true if you’re someone who has fine hair, which is notoriously difficult to manage. Smaller strands make it hard to hold volume, leaving you the victim of flat, blah feeling strands. But don’t worry. We’re here to help you with a list of the most common fine hair mistakes you might be making, so you can manage your strands with the care and attention they deserve.
Getting the wrong haircut
Let’s start with the basics — if you have the wrong haircut for your strands’ thickness, your hair is doomed to lie flat no matter how many other tips you try. While you might be tempted to make up for your lack of volume by increasing your length, long, unlayered hair is the ultimate no-no for those of us with fine strands. And layers? Well, let’s just say they’re the ultimate fine hair secret weapon.
A volume-enhancing style like blunt ends, full bangs, and shorter lengths can add a welcome dose of dimension to your ‘do. You can also use tape in hair extensions for a little extra oomph on days when your hair feels particularly flat. And to really level up, call around to salons to find a stylist who specializes in fine hair. Having an expert on your side will help you gain insight into your hair’s unique needs.
Using the wrong products
As with any hair type, the key to getting fine hair care right is making sure you select the right products. If your routine relies on products not designed for fine hair, you run the risk of adding unnecessary weight that further flattens your hair. Whatever products you use, you should be mindful of the amount you apply, making sure not to weigh down your delicate strands. Using too much product can leave hair lank and heavy, adding an unnecessary burden to already fragile strands.
Once you make sure you’re not applying too much product, the best thing you can do to support your fine hair is to opt for a regular shampoo, conditioner, and even a nourishing hair mask specifically designed to nourish fine hair. We love this set because it’s powered by intuitive smart hair tech that allows you to ensure that your hair is receiving the exact amount of hydration, frizz reduction, and support it needs to thrive.
Neglecting your scalp health
Your scalp is at the root of good, healthy hair. This is especially true for those of us who have finer hair and tend to experience higher rates of hair shed when our delicate strands experience stress. Keeping your scalp healthy and nourished is essential to helping fine hair grow. Invest in a clarifying shampoo or scalp scrub designed to remove product buildup while exfoliating hair follicles. Physically removing the dirt, oil, and product build up is the best way to tend to your scalp health and encourage new growth.
Using the wrong blow Drying technique
Blow drying can be a great way to add volume to hair that tends to lie flat, but if you use the wrong technique, you’ll only make things worse. First, make sure you’re using a blow dryer with a diffuser and temperature gauge, to ensure that you’re not subjecting your hair to unnecessary damage. Now, it’s time to pump up the volume! Apply a volumizing mousse or spray, and use a round brush to lift your hair away from the roots while you dry. Voila! An instant bouncy blowout.
Not preventing breakage
Last but not least, when you have fine hair, it’s important to get out in front of potential damage. Fine strands are prone to split ends, making your hair appear less healthy by impacting density, length, and, yes, volume. Once the ends start splitting, the rest of the shaft is sure to follow, so it’s crucial to prevent damage before it starts. To treat your hair right, swap out the terrycloth with a microfiber hair towel or bonnet. Sleep on a silk pillowcase to prevent night tears, and finger comb out knots or stick to a gentle detangling brush. By sticking to these tips and avoiding unnecessary heat damage, your strands will stay healthier, with less damage and split ends. That means more volume for you to play with.
The takeaway
Every hair type has its issues, and fine hair is no exception. But by sticking to these tips and treating your hair right, you’re laying the groundwork for many good hair days to come!
