Thinning hair is a common issue that affects both men and women. It can be caused by a variety of factors including genetics, hormonal changes, medical conditions, medications, stress, aging, and damage from styling. As thinning progresses, the hair loses volume and appears less dense. Many people look for solutions to help make their hair appear thicker and fuller. One home remedy that gets recommended frequently is brushing the hair more often. But does regularly brushing your hair really help with thinning hair? Let’s take a closer look.
How does brushing impact hair?
Brushing serves several purposes for the hair and scalp:
- It helps distribute natural oils from the scalp down the hair shaft. This helps keep hair moisturized and manageable.
- Brushing exfoliates the scalp by removing dead skin cells and product buildup. This promotes healthy circulation.
- It smooths the outer cuticle layer of the hair, making it look shinier and healthier.
- Gentle stimulation of the scalp may promote circulation and hair growth.
So in theory, there are ways that regular brushing could potentially help thinning hair look and feel better. But does scientific evidence back this up?
Studies on brushing and hair growth
There have not been extensive studies done specifically on brushing and thinning hair. However, some small studies have looked at the effects of scalp massage and stimulation on hair growth. Here is a summary of a few relevant research results:
- One study found that scalp massage over 24 weeks increased hair thickness in Japanese men. However, there was no change in hair density.
- A small 2016 study showed brushing with a boar bristle brush led to reduced hair loss in women with hair loss. However, the study did not look specifically at thinning hair.
- Another small study in 2020 found that scalp massage devices helped increase hair growth in women with thinning hair. However, brushes were not used in this research.
- A few studies have found that scalp massage and stimulation can increase blood flow and cellular metabolism in the scalp and follicles. This suggests an environment that may support hair growth.
While these studies show potential benefits, larger scale clinical trials are still needed to conclusively demonstrate brushes can thicken thinning hair.
Potential benefits of brushing for thinning hair
Based on the limited evidence, here are some potential ways regular brushing may help thinning hair:
Improves blood circulation
Gentle brushing helps increase blood flow to the scalp and hair follicles. Better circulation provides more nutrients that support healthy hair growth. It may also clear away buildup around follicles.
Distributes natural oils
Brushing hair helps spread sebum and moisturizers from the scalp down the hair shaft. This helps keep thinning hair conditioned and reduces breakage and shedding.
Exfoliates the scalp
Brushing helps remove dead skin cells and product residue that could clog follicles and restrict growth. Exfoliation promotes a cleaner, healthier scalp environment.
Reduces tangled hairs
Gentle brushing helps align the hair cuticles and detangle strands prone to matting. This reduces breakage caused by tangled, thinning hair.
| Potential Benefit | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Improves blood circulation | Brushing increases blood flow to the scalp and follicles, providing nutrients for growth. |
| Distributes natural oils | Brushing spreads oils from the scalp down strands, reducing breakage. |
| Exfoliates the scalp | Brushing removes dead skin cells and product buildup that can clog follicles. |
| Reduces tangled hairs | Brushing aligns cuticles and detangles prone to matting and breakage. |
What type of brush is best?
To maximize potential benefits, it’s important to use the right type of brush for thinning hair. Look for these features:
- Boar bristles – Boar bristles are ideal for distributing oils and massaging the scalp. They are also gentle to avoid damage.
- Wide tooth comb – A wide tooth comb helps gently detangle without breaking fragile strands.
- Soft bristles – Soft, smooth bristles are less likely to pull on thinning hair during brushing.
- Cushioned base – A cushioned base helps bristles glide smoothly over the scalp during strokes.
- Ergonomic handle – A comfortable handle allows you to brush thoroughly without hand strain.
The two brushes that tend to work best are boar bristle brushes and wide tooth wooden combs. Look for ones specifically marketed for fine, thinning, or damaged hair.
Boar bristle brush benefits
- Gently massages scalp to increase circulation
- Evenly distributes natural oils along hair shaft
- Creates extra volume, lift, and shine for thinning hair
- Minimizes static and frizz
Wide tooth comb benefits
- Gently detangles without tugging or ripping hair
- Doesn’t scrape or irritate the scalp
- Allows for brushing in sections to reduce tangles
- Stimulates and massages scalp
Using a boar bristle brush and wide tooth comb together provides the most scalp stimulation and least hair damage.
Proper brushing technique
To get the most benefit, it’s vital to use proper brushing technique:
- Start with completely dry hair – Wet hair is weakest and most prone to breakage.
- Use a pre-brush product – Try a detangling spray to minimize knots and make brushing easier.
- Brush in small sections – Work your way around the head, brushing 1-2 inch subsections at a time.
- Start at the ends – Gently work out tangles at the tips before slowly progressing up to the roots.
- Brush scalp too – Use light pressure and circular motions to massage the scalp.
- Brush for 5-10 minutes – Aim for at least 100 strokes total to boost circulation.
- Don’t rush or overload – Take your time brushing to avoid ripping hair.
Make sure to also brush gently, using your fingertips to hold sections taut and prevent tugging. Avoid overbrushing which could damage the scalp and follicles.
Other tips for managing thinning hair
While brushing may provide some benefits, it’s important to have realistic expectations. Brushing alone will not cause significant regrowth for those experiencing balding or chronic thinning hair. Here are some other tips for managing and coping with thin hair:
See your dermatologist
Make an appointment with a dermatologist who specializes in hair loss. They can examine your scalp, diagnose underlying causes, and discuss treatment options like medications and laser therapy. The earlier treatment starts, the better your results will be.
Use volumizing products
Volumizing shampoos, mousses, sprays, and powders can temporarily make hair look fuller. Focus on the roots when applying for maximum lift.
Color-tinted dry shampoos
These dry shampoos add powder and fibers that stick to thinning areas on the scalp for quick disguise. Just don’t overdo it or hair may look dusty.
Try hair thickening fibers
Similar to dry shampoo, these colored keratin fibers blend with your real hair for instant density. Fibers wash out easily with shampoo.
Experiment with styles
Styles like layers, shoulder-length cuts or side parts can make thinning hair less obvious. Avoid tight styles that pull on the roots.
Protect your hair
Be extra gentle with fragile thinning hair. Let it air dry, avoid heat tools, use sun protection, and wear looser hairstyles.
Boost your nutrition
Make sure to get enough protein, iron, zinc, omega-3s, vitamin D, and other vitamins linked to healthy hair growth. Consider supplements if diet alone doesn’t suffice.
Reduce stress
Chronic stress takes a toll on hair follicles. Try relaxing activities like yoga, meditation, or massage to manage stress levels. Getting enough sleep is also essential.
Consider concealers
For special occasions or as needed, consider temporary concealers like hair fibers, root cover-up powders, or tinted dry shampoos to disguise thinning spots. Clip-in hair extensions are another option for fullness.
Embrace the change
For many, hair thinning is an inevitable part of aging. Focus on self-confidence and highlight your best features. Shorter, close-cropped cuts often work well for both men and women experiencing thinning hair.
Conclusion
Based on available evidence, brushing your hair regularly provides some potential benefits that may help temporarily improve the appearance and condition of thinning hair. Using a boar bristle brush and/or wide tooth comb is ideal for gently massaging the scalp and distributing natural oils without causing excess damage to fragile strands. Proper brushing technique is also key. While it likely won’t produce dramatic regrowth, brushing thinning hair as part of your regular grooming regimen can be worthwhile. For the best results though, you’ll still want to consult with a dermatologist and use additional hair loss treatments and concealers as needed.