How to Make Fine Curly Hair Look Thicker

Does your fine curly hair look limp and lifeless? Do you end up wearing your hair in a ponytail day after day because you don't know how to style it? If so, try these simple styling tricks to add volume to your hair and make it appear thicker.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. 
    

   Choose a shampoo without sulfates. Sulfates (sometimes listed as sodium lauryl sulfate or ammonium lauryl sulfate) can make curly hair dry. After you shampoo, follow with a moisturizing conditioner. Avoid applying the conditioner directly to your roots as this can weigh your hair down.

2. 
    

   After shampooing, gently squeeze your curly hair with a towel to remove excess water. Then, comb your hair with a wide-tooth comb. Start combing at the ends first and then gradually work your way up to the roots to avoid breakage.

3. Apply a small amount of light-hold mousse to your hair. Apply the styling mousse evenly to your hair and then gently comb through. Avoid applying too much product to your roots. If your hair is especially dry, add a small amount of leave-in conditioner to the ends before applying the mousse.

4. 
    

   Part your hair with your wide-tooth comb. Gently scrunch your hair so your curls start to form. Then, flip your head over and blow-dry your hair upside down. Keep your blow dryer on low heat and gently scrunch your hair as you're drying it. Only blow-dry your hair for a minute or two to add volume; don't completely dry your hair.

5. After blow drying for a minute or two, flip your hair back and let it dry naturally. Scrunch your hair with your hands every 10 to 15 minutes until it is dry. After you hair is completely dry, avoid touching it or combing it as this can create frizz. If your hair tends to be frizzy, apply a small amount of anti-frizz serum or finishing cream to your hair. Avoid your roots so you don't flatten your hair.

Tips & Warnings

• A good haircut is very important for someone with fine curly hair. Generally, medium and short haircuts with long layers work best. Long hairstyles can make your hair appear thinner and drastic layering usually doesn't work well for fine curly hair.
• If possible, only wash your hair a couple of times a week. Washing your hair daily removes natural oils making your hair more prone to damage.
• Avoid clarifying shampoos as they can dry your hair.

Resources

• Deva Curl Ultra Creamy Instant Conditioner
• Bumble and Bumble Curls Conscious Creme for Fine-Medium Hair
• Nioxin Cleanser for Fine Hair
• Curly Girl, The Handbook

[daider]

on 7/1/2009 Excellent tips on achieving fuller hair. Thanks!

[sonni57]

on 6/25/2009 Good tips on making fine hair look thicker for those who have this problem.