Winnipeg's Downtown Aveda Spa Salon
Frequently Asked Questions - Hair Care
How can I add volume to my fine hair?
First, let's define what we mean by fine hair. With fine hair, the diameter of the hair shaft is smaller than it is with normal or coarse hair. Fine hair often has a very smooth cuticle (outer covering) that makes hair shiny. Some people may substitute the word 'thin' for 'fine' but we define thin hair as low-density growth; that is, fewer hairs on the scalp per square inch.
The Haircut
One-length blunt cuts were invented for fine hair. To update this look, use a minimum of layering on the top of the head only.
Some consideration should be given to the choice of razor versus scissors for cutting fine hair.
- A razor used on fuller, fine hair will remove some of the excess weight that can flatten the hair.
- A scissor cut on thinner, fine hair will make the hairstyle appear fuller.
Hair Styling
If you blow-dry using your fingers instead of a brush, you will be better able to tell when your hair is completely dry. If you stop before your hair is dry, it will collapse after five or ten minutes.
Bending over when drying healthy hair adds volume. This is not recommended for hair that has fuzzy, flyaway hairs on top because these have a tendency to stick out after the hair is dry. On longer hair, use a diffuser to dry the roots first and then the ends.
For dramatic results, apply a small amount of hairspray on the ends of 100% dry hair and wrap your hair in six or seven large Velcro rollers for 10-15 minutes or until the hairspray has dried. Make sure the rollers are tightly wound so the base of the hair is lifted straight up from the scalp. When dry, remove the rollers and use your fingers to arrange your hairstyle, as a brush will flatten the hair too much.
Hair Care Products
Clean hair appears fuller since the hair's natural oils don't weigh it down.
- As a rule of thumb, any products used on the hair will add weight to the hair shaft so the fewer products you use, the more volume you can achieve.
- Use products that don't add much weight to the hair.
- Avoid combination shampoo/conditioner products.
- Light, clear shampoos will rinse off more completely than those that are thick and creamy.
- If you must use a conditioner, apply it only to the ends of the hair.
- Gels should be used only on the roots to provide lift and volume.
Rub finishing products on the roots instead of the ends to achieve lift.
Aveda has a line of hair care products called Pure AbundanceTM that contain traces of Kaolin clay and increases the diameter of the hair shaft by 17%. Pure AbundanceTM Hair Potion is wildly popular with our clients. It comes in powder form and is sprinkled on the hair and worked in with the fingers. The powder momentarily liquefies and then adheres to the hair, creating lift, volume and texture. For maximum lift, apply to the roots of dry hair. It can also be used all over the hair before setting or blow-drying.
