While the stigma associated with female hair thinning and loss makes the subject feel taboo, it’s an extremely common complaint. “There’s a misconception that hair loss in women is rare,” explains Robert Bernstein, M.D., founder of the prestigious Bernstein Medical Center for Hair Restoration in New York City. Truth is, 30 percent of women will experience some form of thinning. But wait—there is hope. These seven solutions help with thinning tresses at any age.
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Viviscal Maximum Strength supplements
This product—with a long list of celebrity and model clientele—is a 100 percent drug-free supplement containing a mashup of protein-rich cod, English whiting and shark. Sound nasty? Marine protein is known for providing nourishment for thinning hair and promoting existing hair growth from within. The supplement also contains zinc and biotin—two must-have nutrients for healthy hair. But patience is a virtue. Since supplements affect the hair growth cycle from the start, it takes at least three months (and possibly as long as six) to see results.
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Dry shampoo does double-duty with this (editors’ favorite) product. Sachajuan’s powder-based aerosol spray builds volume at the roots and dries with a matte finish creating the illusion and feel of fuller locks. Thicker-looking hair is only a shake and a spray (about four inches to be precise) away. Bonus: More time between washes!
Mason Pearson Sensitive Boar Bristle Hair Brush
This brush—with a longtime cult-following—is designed specifically for fine and thinning hair. The massage that a Mason Pearson provides gets the blood and oxygen flowing to feed the thirsty (aka, thinning) hair follicles. Yes, it’s an investment at $160, but the long-lasting bristles have been carefully constructed with natural components that that do not tear fragile hair.
Pack Your Diet with Protein
This Tip is Brought to You by Viviscal
Though we think our hair is muy importante, our bodies consider hair nonessential (read: we don’t need it to stay conscious). Other bodily functions, like, oh, breathing, are more pressing and get first access to the nutrients in our diet. Our hair gets the leftovers. Protein is your hair’s best friend, so reach for healthy protein such as eggs and fish and avoid fasting or yoyo dieting. These can deprive your body of these essential building blocks for a healthy scalp and hair.
READ MORE: Surprisingly Good Sources of Vegetarian Protein
Eat Foods Rich in Omega-3s and Vitamin B
Kristin Kirkpatrick, R.D., YouBeauty Nutrition Expert, says that noshing on specific foods can actually help to create luscious locks. Wild salmon, tuna and trout are packed with omega-3 fatty acids that help to provide moisture to the scalp to prevent dry and brittle hair. Kirkpatrick also recommends foods that contain B vitamins to keep hair follicles in tip-top condition, thus decreasing the risk for hair loss. Fruits and vegetables, and beans and lean meat sources, such as chicken or turkey breast, are all great sources for B vitamin.
QUIZ: Are You Eating For Your Beauty?
Pantene AgeDefy Advanced Thickening Treatment
Pantene scientists have partnered with the smart cookies over at Olay to conduct studies about female hair thinning. The result? Pantene AgeDefy. This hair thickener, which contains a blend of caffeine, niacinamide and panthenol, has been shown to increase the diameter of existing hair fibers, so it’s as if 6,500 fibers have been added to the head. Bonus: After a month of use, hair becomes less brittle and more manageable.
QUIZ: Do You Practice Good Hair Hygiene?
Stylist (and reality TV star) Tabatha Coffey’s new line of wigs and extensions were created to add volume to thinning hair. The short, mid and long clip-in extensions are made from Keralon strands and feel exactly like real hair—you can even heat style them. They clip onto the top of your hair for a more natural look. It’s also the first-ever line of extensions to come in gray—three shades of it, as a matter of fact.
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Medical Treatments
Prescription drugs, like Propecia (aka: finasteride) help lower DHT levels in men, but is not yet FDA-approved for women. Some doctors do prescribe it to female patients, but it’s not recommended because of links to breast problems. In this same vein, over-the-counter Rogaine, with two percent minoxidil, can help with thinning hair if used consistently. In extreme cases, certain females are candidates for Follicular Unit Extraction Hair Plants—where the hair is removed directly from the scalp and grafted on to the thinning or balding areas.
