Did you know that tens of millions of women across the United States are dealing with hair loss and thinning hair? The good news is that today, many long termfemale hair loss solutionsare available to help restore your hair. While most solutions take some time, there are techniques you can use to instantly make thin hair look thicker. Follow these simple tips for fuller, thicker and more luxurious looking tresses.

1. Shampoo is your friend

Many women with thinning hair shy away from daily shampooing for fear of losing even more hair. The truth is that excess oil at the roots can weigh hair down, making it look flat and stringy. Unwashed hair may even allow parts of your scalp to show. In addition, excess oil and dead skin on the scalp can clog follicles, making it harder for new hair to grow. Find a volumizing shampoo free of sulfates and parabens that is gentle on your hair and scalp. Wash your hair daily, or at least three times a week, to keep your roots and scalp free of excess oil and product build-up. And don’t be afraid to use conditioner. Try a light volumizing formula after you shampoo. It can help protect against breakage while adding shine and body to your hair.

2. Try a shorter hairstyle

In general, longer hair is heavier and will weigh down thinner locks. Keep your hair shoulder length or above to lighten the load. Add face framing layers in the front to bring movement and depth, while keeping hair all one length in the back for fuller coverage. Wondering about your part? For many women, a center part will make hair look flatter and therefore thinner on top. Part your hair on the side for a fuller look and more lift at the critical top section of your mane. Try a diagonal part that starts on the side at the front and ends in the center at the back. This can help add the appearance of fullness and give you a little lift.

3. Have fun with color

Don’t shy away from color. Coloring your hair actually increases the dimension of the hair shaft and enhances fullness. Try coloring your hair once every three to four months with a monthly root touch-up in between.

A good rule of thumb for brunettes is to stay within two to three shades of your natural color so the contrast to your roots is less, which also helps reduce the look of your scalp showing through your hair. Adding a few highlights around the face redirects focus and accentuates healthy hair movement. If you’re blonde, consider adding subtle lowlights, or streaks that are a slightly deeper shade than your natural color. This creates dimension and gives thin hair the look of depth and fullness.

4. Use the right products for your hair type

There are just a few precious minutes between stepping out of the shower and a dry head of hair. Make them count! While hair is still wet, spritz with a root lifter or massage in a volumizing mousse. Don’t underestimate the power of a great blow out for adding fullness and body. Use a natural bristle brush for best results. Dry hair on the left side of the head by brushing up and to the right, then do the opposite for the right side of the head. Once your hair is dry, but still warm, use Velcro rollers to add volume while your hair cools down. Start at the front hair line and roll hair back, away from the forehead. Leave the rollers in about 10 minutes and remove. Use your fingers to style and smooth any loose ends. Finish with a no-residue hair spray to hold your style in place. Test your hair spray to make sure it’s a no-residue formula by spraying a little onto a mirror. The mirror should remain clear. Give your hair a quick once over to check for any “holes” where your scalp could show through, especially along the hairline, crown and part. You can also lightly touch up these areas with a color-matching root concealing spray or powder. Look for one that is water- and transfer-resistant for added staying power.

With a little extra effort, you can get a fuller, thicker look—no matter how thin your hair is. Want an even fuller head of hair that lets you try any style you want? Learn more about ournon-surgical hair replacement options for womenand get the hair you’ve always wanted.