Help for Fine Hair

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Help for Fine Hair

Easy ways to add life to limp hair.

By Mark Garrison

Fine-Hair Dos and Don'ts

Big, bodacious, full-of-oomph hair seems like an impossible dream to the legions of straight- and fine-haired women. The curl-challenged know all too well the reality of limp, difficult-to-style locks. But I don't believe that fine hair has limited styling options.

When it comes to cutting and styling fine hair, I suggest seeking out a great stylist. Fine, straight hair shows every scissor mark, so precision is key. Here are the Dos and Don'ts that we follow at my salon:

Dos

Explore styles beyond the blunt cut. Layers and short dos are an option, but it depends on the cut.
Consider hair color and highlights. Color processes plump up the hair shaft, making hair appear thicker and fuller.
Opt for a shorter, heavier bang. They perform well on straight, fine hair and give the illusion of thicker hair.
Reconsider today's modernized perms. They add volume and shine without the crazy curls of perms past.

Don'ts

Let fine hair be razor-cut. This can take away precious volume.
View color and highlights as the only solution -- fine hair can be too fragile for frequent highlights. Dark hair color can make the scalp seem more visible.
Wear hair too long -- or it will look straggly. The shorter the hair, the thicker and fuller it will appear.
Perm color-processed or chemically treated hair. The combination can be downright lethal for locks.

Cool Tool: Try-a-Hairstyle >>

Styling Fine Hair

In addition to a top stylist, fine hair's best ally is the careful selection and application of styling products. I suggest:

Exfoliating and massaging the scalp to increase circulation and release the tension which can restrict blood flow to hair follicles, making them weak and skimpy. A scalp massage can be done both in and out of the shower.
Shampoo with a volumizing shampoo. Conditioner should be used sparingly on the ends of the hair, never the scalp (in fact, I believe that processed hair is the only fine hair type that needs conditioner at all).
Before styling, direct a volumizing spray at just the hair's roots. This will help create a fuller look.

To learn more about Mark Garrison and his New York City salon, go to Markgarrisonsalon.com.

Mark Garrison Salon >>