How I Keep My Fine, Thin Hair from Falling Flat in the Summer Heat
Summer hair tips for thin, fine hair often sound like they were written by someone with twice the amount of hair I have, and zero experience with actual heat or humidity. Mine is baby-fine, thin, and determined to plaster itself to my scalp the moment the temperature rises. But lately, a few readers have told me my hair’s looking fuller, which frankly feels like a small miracle, so I thought I’d share what I’ve been using to help it stay upright and slightly less pitiful in the summer heat.
Before I get into products, I should mention that a good haircut does help. I’m growing out some overly optimistic layers from a former stylist…she had high hopes for what they’d do for my fine hair. In reality, they just made it look thinner. Letting them grow has given things a bit more weight and shape, which makes everything else I do a little more effective.
What I’m Using Right Now (And Why It’s Helping)
I recently switched to the Nécessaire Rosemary Shampoo and Conditioner duo after being loyal to another brand for years…and honestly, I prefer this. They say rosemary helps with hair loss…I have no idea if that’s true…but the scent is fresh and calming, and the formulas feel healthy. My hair feels clean without being stripped, and it doesn’t instantly fall flat after blow-drying.
Since my hair has gone silver, I keep an eye out for any brassiness. When it starts to show up, I use a small amount of Olaplex No.4P Purple Shampoo to tone it down. Just a little goes a long way, and I don’t leave it on for too long because I don’t want to end up with blue hair.
For scalp support, I’ve switched from the Vegamour natural serum to this Grande Hair Serum. It uses the same active and proven ingredient found in lash and brow growth serums, so I know it works. I’m not expecting miracles, but I’ve noticed fewer see-through spots and a definite increase in density along my hairline at the front. Small progress, but I’ll take it.
You may also enjoy reading Color or Go Natural? What’s Right for Your Hair After 60?
Dry Shampoo Isn’t Just for Oil
I wash my hair every two or three days—any more than that, and it just gets drier and flatter. On the in-between days, Living Proof’s Dry Shampoo is my not-so-secret weapon. I’ve tried more dry shampoo brands than I care to admit, but this is the one I keep going back to. It doesn’t just absorb oil, it gives my roots lift, makes my hair feel clean, and adds a ton of volume.
Honestly, it’s a bit of a miracle worker, so now I pack the tiny size when I travel. I’ll even use it in the evening before going out, just to add some oomph at the crown and wake things up a bit. A quick spray, a little zhuzh at the roots, and my hair looks like it has a second wind—even if I don’t. Also check out How to Keep Your Hair Smelling Fresh Between Washes: Easy Tips for Women Over 50
When My Hair Needs Shine (But Not Weight)
After dry shampoo, I often finish with a light mist of Color Wow Extra Mist-ical Shine Spray. It doesn’t weigh my hair down or make it greasy; it just gives it a healthy, glossy finish that dry shampoo can dull. I use it sparingly, but it makes everything look a little more polished and shinier.
The Brush That Gives Lift (Without the Bouffant)
One small change that’s made a difference is that I’ve been using an Olivia Garden square brush when I blow-dry. Yes, it’s square. It lifts at the roots without rounding everything into that stiff, bubble shape that looks better suited to a ’60s political wife than a modern woman running errands.
The square shape gives just enough lift and bend without curling everything under, and it helps direct the airflow where I need it most. I still flip my head upside down sometimes when drying, but this brush gives more control and less puff.
A Little Extra for Shape and Hold
Dry shampoo gives me most of my root lift, but when I want just a bit more shape—or my hair’s feeling especially flat—I’ll add a quick mist of Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray at the roots and scruff it up with my fingers. It’s not so much about volume as it is about structure. It helps my hair hold the lift I already have, adds a little grip, and keeps things from going limp by midday.
Keeping My Scalp Safe from the Sun
Because my hair is fine and my part is always exposed, I try to be careful in the sun. I usually wear a hat because it’s the easiest way to avoid a sunburned scalp and also protects my face from the sun.
If you’re not a hat person, I’ve heard very good things about COOLA’s Scalp & Hair Mist SPF 30. It’s supposed to be lightweight and non-greasy, which is key when your hair’s already on the thinner side. I haven’t used it myself, but it’s worth looking into if you need a little extra protection.
Why I Swear by Silk Pillowcases
I’ve used a silk pillowcase for years, and it really does make a difference. My hair doesn’t get as tangled overnight, and I see far less breakage around my hairline. It’s one of those small things that help keep fine hair looking smoother and healthier, especially when you’re not washing it every day. It’s also better for your face and gentler on your complexion. These ones are my favorite and very well-priced.
If Your Hair Frizzes Instead of Falls Flat
My hair doesn’t frizz, but I know many of you deal with it, especially in the summer. Humidity hits, and instead of going limp, your hair does the opposite: it expands, fuzzes out, and starts doing its own thing.
While I can’t speak from experience, I’ve heard from readers (and a few trusted stylists) that moisture and gentle handling make a big difference. A leave-in cream like Color Wow Strength Dream Coat can help smooth things out without making hair heavy. A microfiber hair turban is another smart swap because it’s gentler than a regular towel and helps reduce frizz before you even pick up a brush.
If you’re using heat tools, a lightweight heat protectant like Living Proof Heat Protectant Spray can help shield fine strands from more damage. Frizz and flatness may be opposites, but they both benefit from less friction and more care.
I’ve spent years trying products, dodging anything that sounds like it belongs in an infomercial, and figuring out what actually works on my head. I’m not aiming for big, bouncy volume because I know that’s just not in the cards. But I do want my hair to look awake, not like it gave up before I’ve even left the house.
These products won’t give anyone perfect hair, but you may find a few helpful. And if all else fails? There’s always a hat.
What’s your summer hair situation this year? I’d love to know what’s working and what you’ve given up on.
Hi Jennifer, I’m just “tuning into” this now and so grateful to you for addressing hair issues because just 2 weeks ago, all of a sudden I discovered a big (size of a quarter) bald spot around my part toward the front of my face! I am horrified.
I knew I had been losing hair, not in clumps ever, but this one night it just seemed I lost more than usual and viola, I can see my head! Yikes! I’ve always had baby fine thin hair, so I have read your previous posts about hair with interest, but never really did anything about it. QVC just had the HairMax headband on and I almost bought that, and HSN had a special value on Keranique which I did buy, but when I got it home, the bottle said do not use if you have heart disease; which I do! I subsequently received an email today from HSN saying that in their presentations about this product, they never mentioned their disclaimers! Needless to say, that went back. So I’m curious if you have tried either of these things; the Hair Max device or the keranique serum, and I don’t know if you answer old emails, and maybe you’ve talked about trying products like this and I missed it. Anyway, thank you for continuing to bring us information about hair products. As for this post, I do wear hats in the summer time anytime I’m in the sun for an extended period of time. But now I’m thinking I should probably be doing more. Oh, and btw, I have the Dyson hair drying; the one that has all the different attachments. I love it! My fine hair is done and styled in about 10 minutes!
I’m so sorry you’re struggling with this. It’s awful! I did try a HairMax headband but found it tight and uncomfortable. I also tried a Red light helmet but did not stick with it. I finally started oral minoxdyl and it really helped. Have you seen a Tricologist? I would recommend that and a dermatologist. Please keep me posted how it goes
I appreciate your tips for thinning hair; bought the Olivia Garden 1 1/2” dia. Square hairbrush and it definitely gives my hair more lift. I look forward to your wardrobe ideas in your posts – they work well for me here in NW Oregon.
I’m so glad you like it too!
Hi Jennifer,
I love reading your posts! I’m 69 and my hair is fine, thin, and dry. My stylist suggested I use Matrix Food For Soft hair conditioner and it has helped a great deal. She also suggested that I towel dry my hair before applying my conditioner rather than just gently squeezing the water out and that has made a tremendous difference; my conditioner works much better after making that small adjustment. That suggestion might be helpful to other ladies.
Thanks for sharing!
Thanks for all the good tips. I, too, have thinning hair. That dry shampoo sounds like something i definitely need to try.
I love the living proof dry shampoo. Just got the grande hair serum a few days ago. I have area near hairline that I hope it’ll help.
I’ve been using olaplex shampoo and originally liked it. Lately, though, my hair seems too soft? Too cottony? Too something. Will try the necessaire rosemary shampoo. And I agree with others…Your hair looks great!
Thanks! Soft is lovely but it’s the enemy of body for my hair.
https://www.msn.com/en-us/health/other/does-rosemary-oil-really-help-hair-grow-here-s-what-experts-say/ar-AA1zAs7b?ocid=msedgdhp&pc=LCTS&cvid=2b879a6e3b3648b6b8311650f72a379b&ei=34
I happened to come across this article today that may be of interest to the community.
It looks interesting
Your hair looks wonderful! Thank you for sharing your knowledge. These comments are all great, too! While I have thick, wavy hair that I have colored monthly, I noticed some thinning at the hairline and crown. It was probably due to hormonal changes + intended weight loss which occurred faster than intended. I’ve had success with 5% Minoxidil serum. I think silk pillowcases are a great idea. I’m also a fan of dry shampoos and hats.
I do like Babe lash serum but recently read reviews for the very budget friendly e.l.f. lash serum so I may try that at some point.
Hi Jennifer,
Thank you for all of the great suggestions. I have already added several to my cart. I am struggling with my hair this summer because I seem to be going through a “shed” despite the Rogaine and all of the expensive shampoos and my scalp is not feeling happy. Always, scary. Your hair is looking great and it does look fuller! I especially love the red polish dot on the shampoo. I can’t tell you how much conditioner that I have wasted because I have grabbed the wrong bottle. Thanks again for all of the wonderful sugggestions.
I’m sorry you’re dealing with this. I finally went on oral low dose Minoxidil and it stopped my Telogen effluvium cycles which is considered the second most common form of hair shedding. Please ask your doctor if it’s an option for you.
Thank you for sharing all of your tips. I have very similar hair to yours and I’m always on the hunt for a miracle. I use many of the same products and techniques as you. I recently added Maelove’s Full Follicle Scalp Serum to my routine with the hope that I will see some new growth around my hairline. It’s been about 3 weeks since I started using it. I’ll let you know if anything happens.
Please do keep us posted Donna!
I, too, have found that fewer layers gives more valoume. I have gone from a pixie cut to a style similar to yours without bangs and I’m loving it. I wore a pixie cut for probably 30 years, during Covid, I let it grow and as soon as we could get into salons I went right back to my pixie. So, a new stylist and thoughts on lots of fine hair and how to give it volume, she has helped me love this style!
Almost didn’t read because my hair is curly and I can cover up my whorl with curls. But I am glad I did because I was wondering why, twice now, I have washed my hair with conditioner only to wonder what is terribly wrong with me. Now I know it is because the shampoo/conditioner I’ve been using recently has the same color bottle and I can’t read…Thank you for the tip.
Lol, happy to help!
I have plenty of hair but it’s super fine. I totally relate to change of hair style issues! It really does look nice. Hang In there!!
I’m now using your shampoo! My hair is squeaky clean and smells good too. I caved and went short again. I just hate hair blowing in my face, under my glasses and in my ears. So my very fine, flat and thin hair is back to a slightly shaggy longer pixie cut. I don’t use any conditioner except in the winter. My hair is very oily as is my face unfortunately. I guess that has helped my skin stay more youthful much longer. I do use Aussie max hold mousse and my comb and then my fingers and voila, I’m done until it air dries. Then I use my large comb and comb out the crunchy bits and my hair is shiny, soft and is not stuck to my head. I wash it every other day. I wear a hat when outside and it doesn’t seem to affect my hair. Thank you for the suggestions as many over the years have really helped me.
My pleasure Sydney! I’m glad you’re enjoying it too.
Thanks, Jennifer, I have followed you for a long time on wardrobe selections and forwarded your columns to many of my more fashion-conscious senior friends. I appreciate the great tips on hair thinning. They are so helpful. I am 73 years old and have always had great-looking, thick hair and eyelashes, but my medium blond hair is thinning now, and I am determined to do what I can without spending a fortune.
I have used a Minoxidil 5% liquid topical solution for years, applied directly to the widow’s peak receding hairline and one pattern baldness spot (Amazon brand 6-bottle package), and have had good results. Based on your column, I asked my doc for a Minoxidil prescription for the 2.5 mg oral tablets (less expensive and more convenient). She was reluctant as the use was off-label, but we looked online at the research in her office. She was surprised at the results and agreed to prescribe. The other prescription I use is the Bitmatopost .03% solution. (generic Latisse). It comes with little brushes to apply to eyebrows and the eyelash base every night. (Get a coupon from Good RX for a significant discount.) This has addressed thinning brows and eyelashes. I agree with you on the blue shampoo. I mix a tiny dab of Kerastase Bain Ultraviolet Shampoo in the purple container with the Nioxin shampoo my husband and I used for 30 years. Kerastase is expensive, but you use so little that one bottle lasts a year, and it tones down the brassiness I was getting between foil appointments on the blond and silver hair. My last hair trick is aluminum thermal self-grip hair rollers (also on Amazon). I round-brush my partially damp hair sections and, when still warm, quickly wrap each section around a roller. This gives each section some “lift” as it cools. I leave them in while I put on makeup and get dressed, then carefully remove them so I don’t pull out any hair. I get a lift that lasts a long time. All these things combined have helped me regain lost hair volume and maintain what I have. Thanks again, Jennifer, for all the great advice from you and your wonderful followers!
I’m so happy to hear your Dr agreed to try it on it. It’s been a miracle for me. I’ll check into the rollers! Thanks for sharing.
Thank you for all the ideas! Like you, my hair is fine and goes limp in heat and humidity. But, it does perk up when the humidity moves out. I wear my hair very short in the summer and longer the rest of the year. Layers do work for me. I’ve tried wearing a short bob, but it goes flat almost immediately and drags my face down. I love the bob you’re wearing, it flatters you!
Currently, I’m using J Beverly Hills shampoo and conditioner for body. I’m somewhat happy with them, but am going to try your recommended rosemary shampoo and conditioner. I do use a clarifying shampoo—Redken cleansing crème. During the fall, winter, and spring I use it every 10 days to 2 weeks. In the summer, I use it every other day following with the J Beverly Hills conditioner. For the record, I wash my short hair every day. The clarifying shampoo makes such a difference! I rarely need to use a purple shampoo to brighten up my silver hair (I do love my natural silver color, I wish I’d stopped coloring my hair earlier than I did.)
I just don’t have great hair, but at 72 I seem to have made my peace with it. I pay attention to my wardrobe (you help me a lot with that) and seriously work on my posture. So, even on a flat hair day I feel confident because of my posture and wardrobe.
The best thing I found for my thin, fine hair 30 years ago was the Carouso steam rollers. I only blow dry my hair the nights I wash it. The rollers put volume in my hair each morning and I roll my hair quickly every morning and its up for 20 minutes while I dress and do makeup.
Still using some of the hair care that you were using several years ago. It helped my hair feel thicker/fuller. I use that product once a month as a switch up with another hair care system. I’ll check out some of your other recommendations.
My momma wore a wig for 50 years because of her thin, fine hair. Her “fix” was getting a perm. I’m thankful that I’ve made it to 70 and have a head of hair, even though it’s fine.
Thank you so much for your product information! Saves me many pitfalls and money! Appreciate being part of your community of lovely vibrant vigorous women who still are looking chic and Audrey Hepburn like instead of a teeny bopper.
I had the good fortune (at 85) to be dining at a lovely resort with a well dressed gentleman, and as I looked at the crowd of short shorts, green and purple hair, well used tee shirts and holey sp? jeans, I felt the inner beauty of looking my best from the Jennifer columns💝
I love this, thanks for sharing Diane
I started PRP a year ago and it is a miracle for your hair.
Wow! Thanks for sharing this. I have wondered about it.
Have been using the Living Proof Dry Shampoo for quite some time. It does everything you say it does. It is the BEST!
Thank you for sharing your hair woes. Your tip about Minoxidil has really helped my hair. Mine is thin but curly. Never the same from day to day. I did just order the pillow cases. I have a silk bonnet but it gets too hot.
Your hair looks great!
My dermatologist recommended taking 5,000 units of Biotin every day for thinning hair. Both i and my sister-in-love have seen a huge difference, and when you can see the new hair growth coming in under your bangs, you know it’s working!
I find I’ve been wearing more hats this summer. Such an easy way to hide flat hair and save my hair and scalp from the sun. Since I have a pixie I find if I keep up with my haircuts and use the right products it doesn’t go flat. That was a good tip about the purple shampoo. I’ll just add a little to my current shampoo. Thanks for all the great info.
Hi Jennifer,
Weighing in on Living Proof dry shampoo, which I first learned of on your blog. As a member of the fine, flat hair club, I have been very impressed with this product. I mentioned it to my hairdresser and she says she even uses it on the days she washes as it gives her that extra oomph.
On another note, yesterday’s post and the subsequent comments were absolutely great. Thank you for your hard work and for this community.
Linda
Thanks for being part of our community Linda!
Hi Jennifer, I just found your blog and so far enjoy your timely topics and great tips. I’m getting out of my comfy ‘down to earth in my jeans’ look because just maybe that particular style didn’t help the invisible woman syndrome at all.
Anyway, this fine hair article is just for me. Three months ago I asked my stylist for volume and she went crazy with the layers even to the point of cutting in bangs! I was mortified, but above all, transported back to the late 70s with that layered shoulder length hair look. Now I’m going to be busy until Christmas growing out this mess! Anyway, I very much appreciate your article and will be implementing some of the tips. Thanks.
Welcome Alexandra!! I’m so glad you’ve joined us.
Great tips, Jennifer. Your hair looks great. I have an appointment today and I plan to show your photo to my stylist. I, too, have been growing out layers and my hair seems thicker. I’ll try the dry shampoo.
Good luck with your cut!
Have you tried taking biotin? I started 5,000 units for my thin fragile fingernails (which helped but of course it takes a while for nails to grow out), but I noticed an improvement in my hair rather quickly. It’s thick but fine and very straight and tends to want to lay flat. I noticed more body and lift from my efforts almost immediately. My nails improved but not as much as my hair.
I’m just tanking a standard does of biotin. I had tried large doses but didn’t notice much change. Then again, I try many things at one time so it’s hard to nail down the one that’s helping. Oral minoxidil has been the biggest game changer for me.
I always hated my thick hair growing up because it never looked as cute as the girls with thinner hair, but as I age I definitely appreciate it. I am lucky to just wash and some product and go. Your hair always looks great.
You are lucky! I guess the grass always looks greener on the other side 😉
Thank you for the thin, flat hair tips. Like another reader posted, I too began following you because of our similar hair woes. :-/ I have been using Aveda Invati for thinning hair and while it doesn’t do anything for hair loss or regrowth, (for me anyway), it does help with the condition of my hair – less dry looking, fly away, and less breakage. I too use PHD dry shampoo (thanks to you) which is now part of my hair routine. Coincidentally, yesterday I followed a link to hairmax and their Laser Hair comb; they also have a cap and a headband looking thing. I wondered if you’d ever looked into this sort of product? Their claim is that it stimulates our elderly, sleeping fair follicles for hair regrowth but they continuously mention ‘hereditary’ hair loss which I am not sure is my problem; I’m thinking menopause. I plan to reach out to them and ask about the difference and see if it’s worth the price which ranges from $220 – $450. The product looks the same, the only difference is for how long you need to use it, 8-11 minutes depending on which model you purchase. It seems easy enough to add to the daily routine – was just wondering what you might know from any research. Again thank you for the tips and I’m thinking about the square hair brush and the Nécessaire Rosemary Shampoo and Conditioner. Oh and digging out the silk pillowcase I received as a gift and never used!!! Have a great week!
I have read good things about the caps and brushes and even tried a few but I found them hard to stick with. You do have to be consistent to see results. My tricologist does recommend them.
Hi Jennifer, I’m interested in the square brush, but which size do you use? I looked at it on Amazon, but not sure if the measurements they give are for the width of the core or of the bristles. I have a brush (also from Amazon) wherein the bristles are laid out in a spiral, and that has been very helpful for my thin, straight hair, but it doesn’t have the titanium core (the Hotheads Round Speed Brush).
Thank you!
Mine is the NT-S40, 1/5″.
Hi Jennifer—great post! A good way to keep from having purple hair when using purple shampoo: my hairdresser said when you are squirting your regular shampoo into your hand, add a little of the purple, rub your hands together and then apply to your hair.
I have used Zenagen products for thinning hair and had quite good results. They have a densifying serum that I can apply directly at the front roots, as well as a thickening shampoo formulated for women.
I am going to try both your dry shampoo and square brush—thank you for experimenting with new things for us to try!
Thanks for the great tips today! I have thin baby fine hair also & I am ready to try some new products. Your hair is looking very good!
Thank you for the tips. I have the same brush only round and will give the square a try. I really like K18 products especially the leave in hair masque. It’s a little pricey, but it seems to give my hair more body for several day. I will try some of your other suggestions.
I’ve not heard of K18. I’ll look into them, thanks.
I too love the Living Proof products. I’m interested in the hair serum, but I already use minoxidil (Rogaine) and have for years. Are you using both together? I’d be more interested in using this at my front hairline. Thanks for the info on new products! My hair is silver salt and pepper, and frizzes in humidity. Come on fall and less heat!
What a welcome topic, Jennifer! My hair is fine and lacks body unless it’s within the first week after I have it colored. Even then, by afternoon in the summer heat and humidity it looks like I didn’t do a thing to it. My friend asked me if I was “tired” when we met one afternoon last week- I wasn’t! I will be trying the dry shampoo and I’m hoping that it might give me the boost I need. I really enjoy your blog! Thank you!
You’ll love the oomph if gives your hair!
I am so proud of your vulnerability and brave effort to openly discuss such sensitive subjects.
Thank you
I actually started following you because I loved your hair! In fact, I am showing my hair stylist your pic because I think the style is very flattering and looks fairly simple to care for.
I appreciate the link to the dry shampoo. I have also tried other products with not a lot of success.
Thanks for sharing your tips and products to help me be my best self on the outside!
That dry shampoo is my miracle worker!
Help for thin, shapeless eyebrows please.
Eyebrow growth serums work very well!
Ha! Didn’t know there was such a thing! Any particular brand you know of that works well?
I’ve had great success with this one
Ann, try the RevitaBrow. Have used it for a couple of years after using the Grande Brow (which worked and then stopped). It takes a couple of months to see a big difference but it does grow new brow hair. My brows had all but disappeared they were so thin but now look normal.
For very thin eyebrows, I’ve found that a brush-on powder gives the most natural-looking results. Clinique made a great one (still using mine), but I don’t know if they make it anymore.
Great tips and recommendations! Thank you.
I hope you found them helpful!