Tricks To Disguise Thinning Hair

Go Ombré
Starting with a darker base and slowly getting lighter towards the ends creates the visual effect of thicker hair at the tips. Go one or two shades lighter at the base for a subtle color change.

Add Multidimensional Color
Create movement and the illusion of fullness with this color trick. “Have your stylist use different tones and levels to create a soft, multidimensional look,” Stevens says. “Oftentimes, I use three different formulas to do so. I use one shade that is my client’s natural base color, one that is slightly lighter and a third that is slightly darker. This creates a look that includes a play of light and dark shadows.” However, she warms against too many highlights. This draws attention to thinning hair at the roots.

Create Volume With Your Cut
Adding layers throughout the hair creates lift, volume and movement. Stevens recommends a strong bang with soft layers like Michelle Obama’s or a side swoop fringe with soft layers like Jennifer Lawrence‘s. These styles “give the cut a much denser appearance and will make the hair look less fine and fragile,” she says.

Style It Right
“For instant volume, I love to start with Nioxin DiaMax ($50, nioxin.com), a leave-in scalp treatment that actually increases the diameter of each hair strand,” Stevens says. She recommends creating long-lasting shape by setting hair with hot rollers or pin curls. “Gradually layer in styling product and add as needed to achieve the desired result.” She also advises to not over-dry because hair will lose its manageability and fall flat.