Hair Care Habits to Avoid If You Have Thinning Hair

Men with thinning hair often develop hair care habits that accentuate their hair loss in an attempt to deny the inevitable. According to Dr. Marta Rendon, founder and medical director of the Dermatology and Aesthetic Center in Boca Raton, Fla., "What is commonly known as male pattern baldness is a hereditary, androgen-related hair loss called androgenetic alopecia that can affect both men and women."

While the truth is that you can't alter your genes, you can make your thinning hair look fuller by avoiding certain hair care habits.

Don't Over-Shampoo

If you've got fine hair, over-shampooing can make your hair look lifeless and dull. The natural oils in your hair will give you shine and protect fine hair against damage. Hair News Magazine makes it clear that although the type of shampoo you use will not affect thinning hair caused by androgenetic alopecia, it can affect the condition of your hair and its appearance. If you want your hair to look fuller, use a higher-quality shampoo, and don't overdo it.
Pick a shampoo developed especially for men and thinning hair, such as Hair Endurance by Head & Shoulders.

Don't Comb Hair the Wrong Way

When your hair is thinning, you want to protect the hair you have left from damage. Combing your hair the wrong way causes breakage and split ends, which makes thinning hair look even thinner.

Don't Give Yourself a Dated Style

Men with thinning hair are often tempted to try a comb-over to disguise a bald spot, or to keep a ponytail after the hairline has receded a couple inches. Sadly, everyone else knows these tricks, too. You will only draw attention to hair loss by trying to disguise it with a dated hairstyle.

Don't Avoid Products Completely

Most people assume that all hair care products are bad for thinning hair. Too much hair gel or over-styling can make thinning hair look even thinner. But using the right products in the right way can give your hair a little boost.

According to WebMD, you should avoid hair care products with paraffin or beeswax, because those will weigh your hair down. Instead, use a salon-quality, volumizing mousse. Dyeing your hair can also make it look thicker, provided your hair is healthy and you choose a dye that won't damage your hair.

Don't Be Afraid to Seek Out Other Causes of Hair Loss

According to Hair News Magazine, 99 percent of thinning hair is caused by androgenetic alopecia, but other factors may be the cause of early thinning and baldness. Before giving up completely, make sure you don't have other risk factors for hair loss.

Dr. Rendon states, "Crash diets have been notorious for causing hair loss. Consuming excessive amounts of vitamin A, carotenoids and some prescription medications, including accutane, can precipitate hair loss."

Don't Ignore the Rest of Your Body

Other factors for hair loss include stress and poor diet. Dr. Rendon says, "A proper diet is one that is sufficient in zinc, B-vitamins, essential fatty acids, biotin, protein and iron. Healthy approaches to establishing safe weight loss have been shown to improve manifestations of hyperandrogenism."

Eating properly and getting adequate exercise won't bring your hair back, but may slow down further thinning. Taking good care of the rest of your body will also keep the hair you do have looking fuller and healthier.