How to make thin hair thicker

Nov 13, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
In general, hair thinning may be caused by excessive stress, over-perming or dyeing, malnutrition, hormonal imbalances, seborrheic dermatitis, and other factors. Treatment options such as hair transplantation, microneedling therapy, laser therapy, or medication can be used under a doctor's guidance to restore thicker hair. It is also important to maintain scalp cleanliness and wash the hair regularly.

Hair thinning is usually caused by factors such as excessive stress, frequent perming or dyeing, malnutrition, endocrine disorders, or seborrheic dermatitis. Treatment options—including hair transplantation, microneedling therapy, laser therapy, and medication—can be pursued under medical guidance to restore thicker, fuller hair. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Excessive Stress

Chronic stress may affect androgen secretion, leading to elevated androgen levels that shorten the hair growth cycle and result in hair thinning. Regular physical activity, meditation, or yoga can help relax the mind and body and reduce psychological stress. Under a doctor’s guidance, hair transplantation may also be considered. This procedure involves extracting healthy hair follicles from the back of the head, processing them specially, and transplanting them into thinning areas. The typical reference cost for hair transplantation ranges from 5,000 to 38,000 yuan per session. Improvement is generally visible within 3–6 months after surgery, although risks such as infection or bleeding may occur.

2. Over-Processing (Frequent Perming or Dyeing)

Chemicals used in hair perms and dyes—such as ammonia and hydrogen peroxide—may damage the hair cuticle, causing dryness and thinning. Reducing the frequency of chemical treatments and maintaining proper scalp care are recommended. Microneedling therapy, performed under medical advice, uses fine needles to create micro-channels in the scalp, stimulating natural repair mechanisms and promoting follicle metabolism and hair growth. The typical reference cost is 800–2,000 yuan per session, with noticeable improvement usually seen within 1–2 weeks. However, potential side effects include infection or allergic reactions.

3. Malnutrition

Prolonged dieting or poor dietary habits leading to malnutrition may deprive hair of essential nutrients, resulting in thinning hair. This condition may be accompanied by symptoms such as weight loss and dizziness. Under medical supervision, treatment may include supplements such as vitamin B complex tablets, oral zinc sulfate solution, or five-dimensional lysine tablets. Low-level laser therapy may also be recommended by a physician, using specific wavelengths of light to stimulate mitochondria within hair follicles, enhancing their vitality and gradually improving hair density. The typical reference cost for laser therapy ranges from 2,000 to 5,000 yuan per session, with results often visible within 1–3 months. Possible side effects include skin burns or discomfort.

4. Endocrine Disorders

Chronic sleep deprivation and unbalanced nutrition may lead to hormonal imbalances. Insufficient hormone production can impair hair development, potentially causing hair loss or thinning. Symptoms often include rough skin, pigmentation, and irritability. Under medical guidance, medications such as Xiaoyao Pills, Wuji Baifeng Pills, or Kuntai Capsules may be prescribed for treatment.

5. Seborrheic Dermatitis

Seborrheic dermatitis is typically associated with genetic factors and impaired skin barrier function. Inflammatory responses can disrupt normal follicle function, inhibiting hair growth and leading to the aforementioned symptoms. It may be accompanied by redness and flaking. Treatment should follow medical advice and may include ketoconazole shampoo, selenium sulfide shampoo, or vitamin B2 tablets.

To maintain scalp and hair health, it's important to keep the scalp clean by washing hair regularly to prevent bacterial growth. Additionally, maintaining a balanced diet and avoiding frequent dyeing or perming can support long-term hair health.

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