Thinning hair and hair loss can be a devastating problem as we move on in years. I was reminded of this earlier today when talking to a lady at the station.

“Your hair looks lovely,” I said. The reply was, “Oh, it’s dreadful; it’s so thin now.” She then regaled me with her morning routine which sounded exhausting – but her hair did look nice.

Of course, the conversation could have headed in a completely different direction if her reply had been, “Thank you. It’s thin, but I do my best.” But it didn’t. Thus the reason for this article; a brief outline on the best strategies for covering hair loss.

Let’s start by learning why it happens. Reasons can range from the simple and temporary (a vitamin deficiency) to the more complex, like an underlying health condition. Or quite simply, those pesky hormones, if you’re a woman of a certain age.

Whatever the cause, a woman with thinning hair feels demoralised. This article gives great information on genetics, age and diseases such as Alopecia Areata.

The Best Strategies for Covering Thinning Hair

The best cover up for hair loss depends on where the hair loss has occurred and what the area looks like.

Toupee-Style Hair Pieces

These hair pieces are designed to cover a small area. They are good for women with a bald spot or significant thinning on the top of the head.

Extensions

Extensions are popular with women who want to add length to their regular hair. They may be used to replace lost or thinned hair. If you go this route, get extensions on the top of your head only, and make sure they blend with the rest of your hair.

If the hair underneath is thinning, you can get extensions of the same length as your hair and use them as a filler.

Full Wigs

Women with extensive hair loss have the option of wearing full wigs. Make sure you choose a natural hair wig that has a “breathable” base.

One negative side to wigs is that they keep your head very hot in the summer. Try using hats or scarves instead. There are varieties that will cover the hair loss without raising your temperature too much.

So, if you don’t feel like wearing a wig, there are plenty of fabulous hats to choose from. Why not create a hat wardrobe in different shapes and colours? Have fun!

Hiding Hair Loss with Colour

You can make your hair look thicker and fuller by using colour as a mask. Of course, there are tricks.

When colouring your hair, use a slightly darker shade of colour on the scalp area; colour the remaining hair one shade lighter. This creates the illusion of fuller, thicker hair and helps cover the spots that are thinning. To look completely natural, have your hair coloured by a hairdresser.

Styling Around Hair Loss

It’s not about short hair vs. long hair; it’s about the way hair is cut and styled. You can add more body to the hair to camouflage thin or bald areas, no matter the length. This is achieved by cutting layers, which can make any hair look fuller. Every woman with thinning hair should opt for a hairstyle that involves layers.

Style your hair in a way that boosts volume; full and bouncy looks thicker than straight and flat against your head. Use Velcro rollers, a volume-adding mousse or a round brush and a blow dryer to style your hair.

What’s the Cause of Hair Loss?

There is a difference between hair loss and hair breakage. Hair breakage can cause thinning from overuse of heated styling tools. Hair loss can be caused by poor diet or bad lifestyle, or just as part of the aging process.

Taking good care of your hair can prevent thinning caused by breakage, but some hair loss goes deeper than that. Talk to your hairstylist if you notice your hair thinning, and head to a doctor for a diagnosis and treatment recommendations for hair loss if you find that it isn’t related to any damage from styling products and tools.

Taking Care of Your Hair

You should try to avoid heavy gels and other products that can weigh hair down. Excessive heat appliances, like hot rollers, tongs and straighteners also damage the hair. Eat a nutritious diet and avoid smoking and excessive drinking.

Are you experiencing thinning hair? Do you have one of the other myriad hair problems associated with age? Is your hair turning grey? Do you have salt and pepper or wiry hair? Please share your thoughts and experiences below!