Washing and conditioning
- Wash as often as your scalp needs; clean hair looks fuller, and washing doesn't cause hair loss.
- Massage shampoo into the scalp, and focus conditioner on the lengths and ends.
- Use a lightweight conditioner so fine hair isn't weighed down.
- Pat hair dry; don't rub roughly with a towel.
Styling
- Detangle gently with a wide-tooth comb, starting at the ends.
- Keep blow-dryers on a lower heat and use a heat protectant (AAD).
- Avoid tight ponytails, braids, buns and extensions that pull, which can cause traction alopecia.
- Limit harsh chemical treatments such as perms, relaxers and bleaching.
- A good cut with some texture often makes thinning hair look denser.
Scalp health
Treat dandruff and itching early, because an inflamed scalp is uncomfortable and scratching damages hair. See our guide to scalp eczema.
Nutrition
Very low-calorie diets, low protein and iron deficiency can all contribute to shedding (NHS). Supplements like biotin only help if you're actually deficient, which is rare, so ask a doctor to test before supplementing.
When to get help
If your hair is getting noticeably thinner, your part is widening or your hairline is moving back, see a dermatologist. Early treatment preserves the most hair. Start with our receding hairline guide or ask Hairloss AI.
FAQ
Does washing hair every day cause hair loss?
No. Hair you see in the shower had already finished growing and would have shed anyway.
Do biotin supplements help thinning hair?
Only if you have a biotin deficiency, which is uncommon. High-dose biotin can also interfere with some blood tests, so tell your doctor if you take it.