Skip to Content

How to Thin Out Thick Hair: DIY Tools, Scissors & Natural Methods (2024)

This site is supported by our readers. We may earn a commission, at no cost to you, if you purchase through links.

how to thin out hairYour luscious locks longing for a lift? Craving to cut back on the chaos of thick hair? We get it – managing a mane overflowing with volume can feel overbearing. But fret not! With a few clever clips of our cutting-edge thinning shears, you’ll have your hair humming in harmony in no time.

Our salon-savvy stylists are here to walk you through simple, foolproof techniques to tame that untamed texture. In just minutes, we’ll have you rocking refined, lightweight layers perfect for bringing out your inner lioness.

With the right know-how, tools, and a splash of sass, you’ll be stunned by how effortlessly a few snips can shape spectacular, slender strands.

Key Takeaways

  • Use quality shears with sharp, aligned blades and ergonomic handles.
  • Work in sections and focus on thinning the interior layers and ends.
  • Avoid fully closing the blades to prevent cutting chunks of hair.
  • Remove weight gradually over time for subtle results.

How to Thin Out Hair

How to Thin Out Hair
When managing unwanted bulk in your hair, it’s crucial to use the necessary tools and products, update your hair care routine, and be aware of the results. Carefully using thinning shears and volumizing products allows you to remove density, while conditioning hair prevents frizz and over-styling.

Being realistic about the outcomes, from subtle thinning to dramatic cuts, helps you make the right changes. Altering your washing, drying, and styling habits reduces bulk over time, but understand that noticeable differences happen gradually as your hair grows.

A. Use the Necessary Tools and Products

To achieve the desired look for your hair, it’s important to use the necessary tools and products – from thinning shears to leave-in conditioners – as well as take advantage of pre-existing knowledge, such as consulting a professional stylist.

Carefully point cut with thinning shears to remove bulk, focusing on ends rather than roots for a subtle change. Use hydrating shampoo and heat protectants to seal cuticles and prevent damage from heat styling.

Rely on a stylist’s expertise in techniques like thinning for the best methods tailored to your hair’s length and texture.

B. Update Your Hair Care Routine

Start skipping daily shampoos to minimize frizz and bulk. Embrace air-drying over heat tools so hair keeps its natural oils and texture. Skip heavy products that weigh hair down; opt for light leave-ins to smooth without bulk.

Don’t overdo washing or styling, as too much handling builds up frizz. Let your hair rest in its natural state as much as possible.

C. Be Warned of the Results

Limit layering on classic bobs or longer, ’cause too much thinning leaves hair looking thinner than Grandma’s Sunday gravy.

Thin hair slowly over time.

Focus thinning on ends only.

Avoid over-thinning roots.

Add layers for blend and movement.

Schedule regular trims to maintain.

Thinning shears remove density, so use with care. Thin too much, too fast, and your lush locks turn limp. Instead, thin gradually – a little at each trim – to subtly reduce bulk. Thin only midshaft and ends, keeping thickness at roots.

Blend with long layers so hair still moves. With patience and precision, you’ll thin to perfection.

D. Alter Your Lifestyle Habits

Wash your hair less often to let natural oils moisturize and tame bulk. Frequent washing triggers hair loss by increasing stress hormones and compromising your immune system. Instead, reduce washing to avoid hormonal changes from chronic stress. Let oils restore hair health while you master volume.

With this simple habit, you’ll reduce bulk for hair that’s fresh, full, and fabulous.

How to Thin Out Thick Hair With Thinning Scissors: a Step-by-step Guide

How to Thin Out Thick Hair With Thinning Scissors: a Step-by-step Guide
When managing unwanted bulk in your hair with thinning scissors, start by selecting styling shears designed specifically for thinning. Next, separate your hair into sections and clip up the top layers so you can focus on the bottom layers first.

Cutting upward from the ends, carefully remove bulk with thinning shears by cutting into the interior of the section rather than the surface.

A. Select the Right Scissors

Buy quality thinning shears that glide through hair like a hot knife through butter. Expert-approved thinning shears with sharp, precision-aligned blades allow for custom thinning. Gently point-cut vertical sections from ends up for subtle removal of bulk in thick hair and tresses without compromising the length.

B. Divide Your Hair

You’re going to want to section out your hair before going in with the thinning shears. Start by splitting your hair into quadrants from ear to ear, securing the top and bottom layers. Work on one section at a time, taking vertical subsections about a 1/2 inch wide.

Point cut up from the ends, removing bulk gradually. With practice, you’ll gain precision and mastery in thinning thick hair.

C. Clip Up Your Hair

Secure your lengths out of the way before tackling each section. Expert-approved thinning shears are essential for successful hair thinning. Avoid using regular scissors or razor blades, as they can cause damage to thick hair and create an uneven look.

Use a light hand when handling the shears – too much pressure will result in over-thinning and split ends! Thinning cuts should be subtle, especially if you’re considering a pixie cut. It’s best to focus on removing bulk from the ends first before making any drastic changes in length.

You’ll gain precision with practice. Remember that mastery is key when it comes to taming thick locks!

D. Start at the Bottom

Begin carefully thinning out the ends of your hair first with thinning shears to remove bulk before making any major length changes.

  1. Focus on lightening up ends instead of taking off length.
  2. Make small snips in layers to gradually reduce density.
  3. Work methodically up from tips to avoid over-thinning.

Thinning shears cuts allow you to reduce bulk subtly while maintaining your gorgeous thick hair. With practice, you’ll master removing just enough density for a perfectly tousled, touchable texture.

E. Cut Upward

Work your way up the hair shaft with thinning shears for subtle thinning. Hold sections taut and make small upward snips into the interior of the hair to reduce bulk gradually. Be conservative, only removing what’s needed for movement. Check progress frequently to avoid over-thinning the mid-lengths.

How to Make Thick Hair Thin Naturally (No Cutting Required)

How to Make Thick Hair Thin Naturally (No Cutting Required)
Discover how to enjoy naturally thin hair without any cutting required! Here are 4 tips to help you thin thick hair naturally:

  1. Use clarifying shampoos weekly to remove product buildup that adds bulk. Clarifying shampoos deep clean, leaving hair bouncy.
  2. Alternate cool and warm water when rinsing hair. The temperature change smooths the cuticle flat, reducing volume.
  3. Apply conditioner only from mid-shaft down. Avoid conditioning roots, which can make hair appear fuller.
  4. Let hair air dry naturally. Allow curls and waves to form without interference. Air drying enhances hair’s natural texture, decreasing bulk.

Look for weightless hydrators like leave-in conditioners to tame frizz and boost shine on curly locks. On thicker manes, embrace your hair’s natural wave or curl instead of blow drying straight. Allowing texture to shine through removes volume better than heat tools. For waves, scrunch in mousse while drying to encourage dimension, not bulk.

When humidity increases frizz, twist curls into loose buns or braids to prevent pouf without heat. Reveal your hair’s naturally stunning texture without thinning shears – simply let its innate beauty shine through.

Wrapping Up: to Thin or Not to Thin?

Wrapping Up: to Thin or Not to Thin
You’ve weighed out all the pros and cons, so it’s time to decide: thin or not?

When it comes to thinning hair, proceed with caution. Drastic thinning can compromise your style, creating straggly, over-processed ends. But used judiciously, thinning techniques like point-cutting and texturizing can remove bulk while maintaining movement and dimension.

Focus thinning on mid-lengths and ends, blending with face-framing layers. Thin little by little over time for subtle results.

Rather than aggressive thinning, incorporate clarifying shampoos and volumizing creams into your routine. Allow waves and curls their natural texture instead of blowdrying straight. Style hair up and back to showcase your features, not an excess of hair.

Evaluate the need for thinning every six to eight weeks with your stylist, when new growth appears. They can advise the safest amount to thin while considering your hair’s length and texture.

The goal is hair with movement and flow, not thinness for its own sake. With a few key techniques and the guidance of a trusted stylist, you can remove excess bulk while maintaining beautiful, healthy hair.

Focus on enhancement, not dramatic change. Subtle thinning over time, coupled with volumizing products and strategic styling, allows your hair’s innate beauty to shine through.

Try a Straightening Treatment for Thinning Out Hair

Try a Straightening Treatment for Thinning Out Hair
Consider trying a straightening treatment to thin out your hair. These treatments can help smooth and relax the structure of thick, curly hair. They work by altering the hair’s internal protein bonds to loosen natural curl patterns.

Popular options are keratin treatments and chemical relaxers. When done properly by a stylist, they can make hair appear straighter, smoother, and less dense.

The key is applying the straightening product evenly throughout the hair. This allows the treatment to penetrate and break down bonds for a uniform effect. Use a wide-tooth comb to ensure even coating from roots to ends. Let the product process fully following your stylist’s timing recommendations.

Then have the stylist flat iron each section, sealing in the effects of the treatment.

Over a few weeks, you’ll notice your hair feeling softer, smoother, and less bulky. Straightening treatments gradually wear off over 2-3 months. Repeating the process can help maintain sleeker, thinner-looking hair.

But avoid overuse, allowing your hair to recover between treatments. When done sparingly by a professional, straightening can be an effective way to reduce volume and density for an elongated, streamlined look.

Use the Shearing Method to Manage Thick Hair

Use the Shearing Method to Manage Thick Hair
You’re expertly shearing sections with a stylist to effortlessly remove unwanted bulk.

  • Make sure to only take small sections of hair between your fingers when pointing your scissors up to thin.
  • Hold the hair between your fingers straight out from the head before snipping into the ends and up the shaft.
  • Focus on thinning the interior layers and ends rather than the exterior hair.
  • Avoid closing the blades all the way to prevent cutting straight across chunks of hair.

Thinning with shears is a precise technique perfect for reducing density in thick, coarse hair textures. As a person with thick hair, your biggest pet peeve is unwanted bulk, learning to shear properly can be liberating.

Have your stylist demonstrate on small sections first so you understand the blunt cut motion. Unlike razoring, which can tear hair, shears slice cleanly to remove weight. Expect it to take a few sessions to gradually thin out hair to your ideal density.

Removing weight should be done gradually. Patience is essential, as a little goes a long way with thinning shears. Go slow, allowing your hairdresser to assess the results before moving to new sections.

With the right touch, you’ll have a head of hair that looks shapely, feathery, and full of movement.

D.I.Y.: Invest in the Right Thinning Shears


Thick locks got ya down? 33% of women battle unwanted bulk. Snag quality thinning shears for D.

  • High-grade steel: Clean slicing minimizes damage.
  • Razor-sharp blades: Precise cutting removes bulk gradually.
  • Fine serrations: Grip hair better, prevent slipping.
  • Ergonomic handles: Comfort for prolonged use.

Handling thinning shears seems daunting. However, with practice on your own head, you can master precise snipping. Unlike kitchen shears, salon-quality thinning shears angle the blades to slice hair, not chop it.

Invest in shears designed specifically for cutting hair, with fine teeth and lightweight handles.

Work in sections, taking care not to overdo it. Removing too much bulk at once can leave hair straggly. Be patient and conservative. For longevity, clean shears after each use and store in a pouch, never loose in drawers.

With the right high-quality shears and proper technique, you can achieve your ideal natural thickness whenever you want.

Update Your Wash-and-Care Routine

Update Your Wash-and-Care Routine
After utilizing salon-quality thinning shears to strategically remove unwanted bulk, it’s time to lean into an updated hair care routine focused on optimizing your hair’s health and minimizing frizz.

Here are 3 simple switches to make:

  1. Swap out shampoos with harsh sulfates for a gentle, moisturizing cleanser. Sulfates strip hair and lead to a fluffy, puffy texture.
  2. Trade styling creams and mousses for lightweight serums and oils. These nourish hair while adding shine without weighing it down.
  3. Replace terry cloth towels and rough brushes with microfiber towels and wide-tooth combs.

Caring for your hair properly is just as crucial as strategic thinning for achieving your ideal texture. By adjusting your wash-and-care routine, your hair will look and feel healthier. The right products and techniques help maintain that fresh-from-the-salon look and lightweight feel.

Implement these simple yet powerful updates, and you’ll be rocking gorgeously smooth, touchable locks.

Update Your Styling Routine When Thinning Out Thick Hair

Update Your Styling Routine When Thinning Out Thick Hair
Once thinned, your mane becomes a garden needing gentle nurture to bloom. With newfound lightness, adopt styling techniques that enhance rather than weigh down. Let your hair air dry instead of blow-drying to minimize frizz. Scrunch in a curl cream or serum using a wide-tooth comb, encouraging your natural texture.

If heat styling, always use a protectant and low setting to avoid damage. Consider soft waves or loose curls rather than severe straightening. Embrace volume at the roots by backcombing slightly for lift. A boar bristle brush also smooths flyaways and distributes oils from root to tip.

Play with part variations like a side or deep side part to create movement and direction. Go for tousled and piecey over overly sleek looks. Add fun accessories like headbands and barrettes that complement your thinner strands.

By embracing natural texture with gentle enhancements, your thinner hair creates soft, touchable styles with fuller appeal. Focus on inner confidence to radiate beauty that transcends any change in hair thickness.

Causes of Hair Loss in Men: the Top Culprits


While your newly thinned tresses allow greater styling freedom, maintaining fullness remains key for men experiencing hair loss.

  1. Genetics – Male pattern baldness is hereditary, passed down from parents and grandparents.
  2. DHT – This testosterone byproduct damages follicles, stunting growth. DHT binds to receptors, inhibiting new hair production.
  3. Stress – Cortisol and other stress hormones disrupt growth cycles. Stress impacts overall health, which affects hair.
  4. Medications – Drugs treating health conditions like heart disease can trigger hair shedding as a side effect.
  5. Scalp issues – Dandruff, psoriasis, and fungal infections cause inflammation, impede hair regrowth.

While genetics play a role, solutions exist to encourage thickness. Seek stylists versed in concealers like fibers or strategic cuts to minimize sparse areas. Explore laser treatments to stimulate follicles, rogaine to extend growth phases.

Analyze diet and exercise to lower stress hormones. Most importantly, know that beauty resides within, regardless of hair status. Confidence and compassion define a man, not crown coverage. With knowledgeable guidance, you can gracefully embrace changing locks.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the best methods for thinning out my hair?

You can thin hair by getting regular cuts with layers and using thinning shears. Go slowly at first, focusing on the ends. Avoid over-washing and heat styling. Moisturize with light conditioners and let the hair air dry.

Are there any treatments that can help thin out my hair?

Yes! From consulting a professional stylist to using thinning shears or cutting long layers, there are treatments that can help reduce bulk and bring out the beauty of your hair. Symbolize liberation with subtle changes that maintain length yet control thickness for an empowered look.

Is there a difference between thinning out thick hair and thinning out regular hair?

You’re right, there is a difference. Thick hair needs more thinning to reduce bulk; regular hair may only need slight thinning for touch-ups. The techniques remain the same, but thick hair requires extra passes of the shears for noticeable results.

A professional’s expertise adapts the thinning process to match each client’s texture and goals.

Is there a risk of damaging my hair when thinning it out?

You can damage hair when thinning it improperly, so have an experienced stylist point cut with thinning shears. Focus on thinning the ends, not the roots. Overdoing it creates straggly, thin spots, so follow up with subtle face-framing layers.

What are some tips for maintaining thin hair?

Focus on nourishing your thin strands daily. Use lightweight moisturizing products without silicones. Avoid over-drying with excessive heat styling. Get regular trims to prevent splits and breakage. Layered cuts remove bulk while preserving length. Avoid over-thinning with excessive razor work.

Conclusion

From thinning shears to natural methods, there’s a variety of ways to thin out thick hair. With the right tools, products, and techniques, you can achieve the look you desire without compromising the health of your hair.

For the best results, consult a professional stylist who has hands-on experience with thinning techniques and expertise in hair health. When it comes to thinning out thick hair, the key is to understand the cause and how to address it with the right method.

With the right approach and routine, you can create a style that’s both manageable and flattering. From the right product selection to the shearing method, you can finally conquer the challenge of thick hair and enjoy the results of a sleeker, more refined look.

Avatar for Mutasim Sweileh

Mutasim Sweileh

Mutasim is a published author and software engineer and beard care expert from the US. To date, he has helped thousands of men make their beards look better and get fatter. His work has been mentioned in countless notable publications on men's care and style and has been cited in Seeker, Wikihow, GQ, TED, and Buzzfeed.