5 Haircuts That Add Volume to Fine Hair

Pixie cuts are a strategic choice for thinning hair. In an exclusive chat with Women, Michelle Cleveland explained that, “Pixie cuts, especially with texture and layers, can create volume on top of the head, drawing attention away from thinning area.”

Shorter length can actually make hair appear fuller. “Keeping hair shorter generally minimizes contrast between thinning and fuller areas,” Cleveland added, noting that length, if not cut properly, can weigh hair down and expose the scalp. If you need some inspiration, check out five celebrity pixie cuts to inspire your own chop.

Blunt bobs are a smart choice for thinning hair. “This style gives the appearance of thicker hair by keeping the ends full and clean,” Jennifer Korab exclusively told Women. “Light, face-framing layers add softness without taking away too much weight.” 

Korab explained that when discussing the cut with your stylist, you should ask for the cut to end between your chin and collarbone, depending on how long you want it. She also noted that some texturizing helps to add volume. For some added thickness, use dry shampoo. Michelle Cleveland told us that even on clean hair, dry shampoo can create lift at the roots.

A layered lob works well on those with medium-length, fine hair, Jennifer Korab told Women in an exclusive convo. Since a lob can fall anywhere between the chin and collarbone, this particular cut works well with curtain bangs, as they add extra thickness around the hairline. 

And there’s tons of hair inspo from celebs who’ve rocked curtain bangs. “The layers will add gentle lift at the crown for volume, while curtain bangs help frame the face and draw attention away from any thinning at the hairline,” Korab said. She gave us another hot tip, too. Blow dry your hair upside down, using a round brush to lift sections from the root, for even more volume. 

For thickness, think shag, particularly for those who want to keep length. “For longer, wavy hair, a soft shag with longer layers works well to boost body and shape,” Jennifer Korab exclusively explained to Women. “The layers will help enhance the natural texture and create the illusion of more volume without making the ends appear too thin.” 

Korab suggested asking your stylist for a “modern shag with layered volume through the top and sides” of the head. Michelle Cleveland echoed the advantages of a shag cut, saying the many layers add volume and movement in the upper and middle sections of the hair shaft.

Curtain bangs are the secret recipe for anyone wanting to add a little volume to pretty much any cut, not just lobs. So if you only want to make one small change to your hair, go for curtain bangs. “Curtain bangs are a middle-part bang on the longer side,” Eduardo Ponce of Balmain Hair told Glamour. “The cut is meant to frame the face and isn’t as harsh as front bangs.” 

This particular style of bangs can also be a strategic addition. “Curtain bangs can add volume to the front of the hair and help conceal thinning hairline,” Michelle Cleveland told Women exclusively. Cleveland also suggested that folks with thinning hair use lightweight mousses, texturizing sprays, and root-lifting sprays to bring lift to any cut.