A parting that looks wider than it used to is one of the most common signs of thinning hair, especially in women. It's also one of the easiest things to improve with a few styling changes. Here are seven simple tricks.
This is general styling advice, and it doesn't treat hair loss. If you are worried about thinning, speak to your GP or pharmacist.
1. Move your parting
A parting that has sat in the same place for years can start to look wider, because the hair around it has been pulled the same way every day. Try a small shift to one side, or comb your hair in a different direction when it's wet.
2. Try a zig-zag parting
A zig-zag or slightly uneven parting breaks up the straight line, so the scalp is less obvious. Use the tail of a comb to draw the line.
3. Use a side parting
A deeper side parting moves more hair across the thin area. If you usually have a centre parting, a side one can look fuller.
4. Add lift at the roots
Blow-dry your roots upwards with a round brush, or use a light volumising mousse or spray on damp hair. Lifted roots cover more scalp than flat ones.
5. Fill it in with hair fibres
Fibres cling to your own hair and fill in the parting in about a minute:
- Style your hair and set the parting first.
- Sprinkle or spray a very small amount along the parting.
- Pat it in gently, then blend the edges with a comb.
- Set it with a light mist of hold spray.
Choose a shade close to your roots in daylight, and use thin layers. Too much will look powdery.
6. Consider a root powder or tinted spray
These add colour to the scalp and make the parting less stark. They work well on their own or under fibres.
7. Add a clip-in topper
If the thin area is bigger than fibres can comfortably cover, a small clip-in topper can add fullness at the parting. Match the shade and length to your own hair, and blend the edges.
A few things to avoid
- Very tight ponytails and braids, which pull on the hairline and parting
- Heavy oils and thick products at the roots
- Using too much product, which can make the parting look patchy
When to speak to a professional
If your parting has widened quickly, or you notice patches, soreness or other symptoms, book an appointment with your GP.
The bottom line
A thin parting is easy to soften. Start with a small change in styling, add some lift and, if you like, use fibres or a topper. Check the result in daylight, and keep it simple.