Hair-Thinning Shampoo

Woman with thick, neck-length hair
Photo: Lena Pan/Shutterstock
Q: My hair is really thick and when I get it cut short it stays up and won't lay flat until it has a certain length. What can I do to make my hair lay down? Is there maybe something like a hair-thinning shampoo that I could use?
 
A: I know many people who would love to have your problem, but I can completely understand how frustrating it is to deal with unruly hair just because you like wearing it shorter.
 

The Truth About "Thinning" Shampoos

First, to clear up a common myth: there is no such thing as a "hair-thinning" shampoo. Shampoo cleanses the scalp and hair shaft, but it can't alter the actual density or thickness of your hair strands.
 
In fact, many deep-cleansing shampoos might strip natural oils and make your hair lighter and even more prone to sticking straight up. Stick to moisturizing or smoothing shampoos and conditioners, which add a bit of natural weight and softness.
 

Professional Salon Solution

The most effective, long-lasting solution actually happens in the stylist’s chair. Ask your stylist to use thinning shears to remove bulk from the interior of your hair without sacrificing the overall length or style.
 
Removing that dense bulk takes away the springiness that forces short hair to stand up. For extremely resistant hair, a mild chemical relaxer or smoothing treatment can also permanently break down that stiffness at the root.
 

At-Home Styling Techniques

If you want to manage it day-to-day at home, depending on exactly how short you wear your hair and your desired style, here are a few tricks:
 
• Use heavier styling products: Lighter foams and mousses will make your hair float and stand up. Instead, reach for heavier creams, pomades, clays, or styling oils that add physical weight to help the hair lie down readily. Apply them while the hair is damp for the best control.
 
• Try hair wrapping: Apply your heavy product, then comb or brush your hair flat against your scalp in the direction you want it to go. Wrap a strip of wrap paper, a mesh cap, or tissue paper bands snuggly around your head and pin it in place while it dries. Once dry, brush it through softly and it will retain that flat shape close to the scalp.
 
• Use heat and steam: Take a hand towel, wet it with hot water (as warm as comfortable), and wring it out well. Wrap the damp, warm towel around your hair for a few minutes. The combination of heat and moisture temporarily breaks down the hair's hydrogen bonds, making stubborn hair far more pliable and easy to mold flat with a bit of styling product.
 
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See also:
 
Hair wrapping
 
Hair styling techniques