What's The Difference Between Fine And Thin Hair?

There are many ways to describe your mane, but do you know the difference between fine and thin hair? If you think these two terms are one and the same, think again! Jose Ramón, Spanish L'Oréal Professionnel stylist, clarifies everything you need to know to make sure you’re treating your hair type right—whether you have grey balayage or long blonde locks.

 

What’s the difference between fine and thin hair?

To get technical, these two hair definitions differ when it comes to width and density.

“Thin hair refers to the overall density of the hair, and fine hair refers to the diameter of the individual strand of hair,” explains Ramón.

Diameter or width of the hair is often described using terms like fine and coarse, whereas density refers to thin or thick hair. Fine hair just means that the strand of hair itself is thin. It is possible to have a lot of fine hair or even thick fine hair.

Thin hair, on the other hand, refers to the amount of hair you actually have per square inch on your scalp or simply how much hair you have on your head. Having thin but coarse hair is possible.

 

How To Tell If You Have Fine Or Thin Hair

The easiest way to determine if your hair is fine or thin is to look at the width. Compare a piece of hair to a piece of thread. If you find that the hair is smaller than the thread, chances are good your hair is fine. The way your hair feels can also be an identifier, as fine hair often feels silkier and may not hold up so easily in a ponytail.

How To Make Thin Hair Look Thicker

Update your haircare routine.

If you have fine, thin hair, it’s recommended that you pay close attention to your hair care routine. Fine hair can be weak and easily damaged. As a result, fine hair may need strengthening products to minimize breakage.

At home, try the L'Oréal Professionnel Serie Expert Inforcer range (which includes shampoo, conditioner, and a strengthening mask). It's the TLC your hair needs!

Choose the right haircut.

If your hair is on the thin side, you may notice that your scalp is sometimes visible. This may be because your hair follicles are more widely spread out. It’s a good idea to choose a haircut that is suited for thin hair, while still looking stylish in the process!

“When getting a fine haircut, I work the internal layers to get more support and body. However, when working with a thin haircut, I look for longer lengths in the layers and less distance between them, ” Ramón explains.

 

Style it right.

The right hair care and styling products can also help to create the illusion of thick hair while giving your mane what it needs to remain happy and look beautiful.

“For thin hair, I recommend products that provide volume or density,” Ramón says.

Try L'Oréal Professionnel Serie Expert Volumetry Shampoo and Conditioner for an anti-gravity effect, while L'Oréal Professionnel Tecni.Art Densité can be used during hairstyling to give your hair the thickening it needs.

Know the difference between fine and thin hair and treat your hair right.

For personalized advice about how best to style your hair type, use our salon locator to book an appointment with a stylist near you.