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.
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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.
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!