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.