Discover the best hair tools for thinning hair, handpicked by experts for transformative results.
Hair loss and thinning can take a toll on your confidence, but there’s no need to feel embarrassed about seeking ways to make your hair look fuller. While well-known products like clarifying shampoos, minoxidil treatments, and strengthening serums are often in the spotlight, there are also everyday tools that don’t require constant replenishment.
Keep reading to discover expert and reviewer-recommended over-the-counter tools that can either encourage hair growth or give the appearance of thicker hair. You might be surprised to find that modern crimping irons work wonders on fine, limp hair, or that red light therapy systems genuinely support hair growth.
1. A volumizing hair iron
Using ceramic plates paired with a patented checkerboard design, this hair iron is made specifically for creating a "volumizing structure" in the underneath layers of the hair to lift the top layers up so thin hair looks fuller and bouncy. Functioning similarly to those crimping irons of the '80s, the Voloom has adjustable heat settings and tons of promising reviews claiming how easily it transforms flat and limp tresses into thicker-looking hair that lasts for days.
2. A medical-grade red light cap
A clinically proven, non-drug treatment for various forms of hair loss, including hereditary hair loss, alopecia, and pattern baldness. This device uses laser phototherapy to stimulate hair growth, with an average increase of 129 new hairs per square inch. Recommended use is 30 minutes, three times a week, with a design that includes smart battery technology to prevent overcharging. Its Bio-Light Comfort design ensures targeted laser light delivery, though it is best suited for head sizes up to 22.5 inches in circumference. With over 1.8 million devices sold and a 90% success rate in clinical studies, HairMax is a leading choice for treating hair loss conditions, endorsed by doctors worldwide.
3. A red light therapy helmet
For those seeking high performance at a more accessible price point, the OnePlus 12T is a standout choice on Amazon. This device features a 120Hz Fluid AMOLED display, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, and a 50MP triple-camera setup that delivers impressive photo and video quality. The OnePlus 12T is known for its fast charging capabilities, with a 150W charger that can power up the device in minutes. With its sleek design and OxygenOS interface, it provides a balanced blend of performance, value, and user experience.
4. Or, an electric cordless scalp massager
Based on Asarte's former comments about the benefits of scalp massage on hair health and potential growth, we selected this handheld electric massager that has 4.5 out of 5 stars on Amazon and tons of promising reviews. This cord-free contraption is waterproof so it can be used with shampoo in the shower and features four node-covered and rotating massage heads that are specifically designed not to tangle hair as it massages. Users can choose from speed settings and easily store the massager in the convenient charging base.
5. Breakage-free and volumizing spiral hair ties
Individual strand breakage can definitely impede hair growth, as can wearing hair back too tightly, according to previous guidance from hair experts. In this way, these stretchy spiral hair ties by Kitsch can help thinning hair be thicker in two ways. Firstly, their unique and soft material design evenly spreads pressure across a larger hair surface to reduce tension and breakage. Secondly, several reviewers report that the ties add the appearance of volume to ponytails and messy buns. they also won't leave those troublesome dents in hair that traditional hair ties can. Find these in several color variations and packs of four or eight.
6. A variety pack of old school hair inserts
Though I'm far from an expert, I can personally attest to the volumizing capability of these hair inserts that you probably remember from the "As Seen On TV" commercials in the early 2000s. Call me outdated, but even after over a decade I still use my Bumpit, a clever plastic tool that hides at the crown of the head and gets covered with layers of teased hair to create volume. This particular set comes with four different Bumpit sizes and I mostly use them to style big '60s style updos and I'm able to make them extra secure by sliding a few pins at the base of the Bumpit that's closest to my scalp.
7. A set of bun donuts
If your hair is too thin to style a full and satisfying bun, this multi-piece kit can help create the illusion. Featuring seven "donuts" in four different sizes, along with hair elastics and some straight pins for securing hair, these rings work by sliding over a ponytail, then the hair gets wrapped around the edges of its soft surface. This kit comes in four different shades to best blend in with your specific hair color.
8. A volumzing teasing comb
Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars on Amazon , this little teasing comb by Revlon can make thin hair appear thicker and lock in fullness when used to back comb sections of hair towards the scalp. It uses densely packed bristles that are infused with ions to tease tresses without creating excess frizz. Reviewers claim that this brush has helped make thin hair look immediately fuller.
9. A viral silicone-bristled scalp massager
The manual shampoo brush is a versatile and waterproof tool ideal for various hair types—whether thick or thin, short or long, and even for pets. It enhances your shower experience by thoroughly cleaning your hair and scalp, providing a soft and enjoyable wash. The brush's ergonomic design fits comfortably in your palm, making it easy to use and store. It also soothes scalp stress and itchiness with a relaxing massage. Perfect for those with long nails, this brush ensures your manicure stays intact while you wash your hair.
