Top Tips and Tricks Stylists Can Use to Add Volume to Fine, Flat Hair

One of the most common complaints stylists hear from their clients is that they want their hair to have more volume. Adding lasting volume to hair is an art, but it’s especially a struggle for clients with fine hair that tends to lay flat. Here are some creative ways to give clients the volume they’re looking for!

Consider the Cut

Long, layerless locks tend to accentuate flat hair. Give clients instant lift by taking off some length and adding in layers. Short-to-medium-length hair is best for a more volumized look. Avoid adding layers too close to the scalp or ends: Keep them inside the hair for maximum impact. Be careful not to add too many layers to super-fine hair, as this may give a stringy appearance.

Going for bangs with the cut is also a quick way to add the appearance of volume.

Section Strategy

Section hair strategically throughout the blow-dry to add volume. Dry from underneath hair, blowing along the length and coaxing it into the opposite direction so that when it falls back into place, it has added lift. Use a diffuser toward the end of the drying process to help direct hair in the desired direction.

Similarly, recommend clients consider switching up their part; a long-worn part tends to lay flat in place, so turning it over instantly adds volume.

Extensions also add volume to flat hair, so let clients know they have options!

Color It

Coloring hair actually provides a lasting thickening effect by expanding the cuticle, giving clients instant volume. Incorporate highlights and lowlights strategically to give the appearance of more volume and depth.

Chemical Services

Perms are back! Suggest clients try a spiral or wave perm to add body, lift, and movement to hair.

Styling

Products aimed at boosting volume are available for every step of the styling process, from wash to finish.

• Start by cleansing and conditioning with L’ANZA Advanced Healing Volume Thickening Shampoo and Conditioner for a volumized base.
• Work Davines Liquid Spell or Thermafuse Classic Line Fixxe Extreme Volume Mousse into towel-dried hair.
• Blow-dry hair and work in Lock Stock & Barrel Preptonic Thickening Spray.
• Finish with Loma Texturizing & Finishing Spray to complete the look.
• For guys, try the Lock Stock & Barrel Pucka Grooming Creme after a blow-dry to give flat hair a lift.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different products throughout the styling process to find the right fit for a client. For some clients, too much product may risk weighing down hair, so add product in moderation.

During the styling process, be sure to choose the right brush style for the client; avoid metal or plastic round brushes, as these can overheat and damage already-thin hair, exacerbating hair’s thin appearance.

Helping the Client Keep Their Look

Clients may not realize that some of their habits could be contributing to their flat look. Educate clients on tactics to keep their volume—making suggestions such as avoiding wearing a hat over wet hair, or not applying conditioner to roots.

Recommend evo haze styling powder for added boost, and as a way to refresh hair and reinvigorate volume throughout the day.

Flat, volume-deficient hair is a struggle, but it doesn’t have to be: Try the techniques and products above to give clients the volume they’re looking for. Shop the best in volume-boosting hair products at Salon Only Sales!