When people talk about wanting hair they often use the terms hair density and hair thickness without really knowing what they mean. These two terms are not the thing.
Understanding the difference between hair density and hair thickness can help you choose the hair care products and styling techniques. It can also help you understand why your hair looks the way it does and what changes you can make to improve it.
Lets break down what hair density and hair thickness are.
What Is Hair Density?
Hair density is the number of hair strands that are growing on your scalp. It is about how hair you have on your head not how thick each strand is.
If you have hair density that means you have a lot of hair follicles on your scalp that are producing hair. This can make your hair look fuller and more voluminous.
On the hand if you have low hair density that means you have fewer hair strands on your scalp. This can make your hair look thinner even if each individual strand is thick.
Signs of High Hair Density
You may have hair density if you notice these things:
- Your scalp is hard to see through your hair
- Your hair feels very full and heavy
- Hair clips and bands have a time holding all your hair
- It takes a time to style and dry your hair
Signs of Low Hair Density
You may have low hair density if you notice these things:
- Your scalp is easy to see through your hair
- Your ponytails are small
- Your hair looks flat and lifeless
- Your hairstyles do not hold their volume
What Is Hair Thickness?
Hair thickness is the width of each individual hair strand.
Each strand of hair can be fine, medium or thick. This has nothing to do with how hairs you have on your scalp.
You can have a lot of hair strands or a lot of fine hair strands.
Fine Hair
Fine hair is hair that has a diameter.
Fine hair usually feels light. Has a smooth texture. It can also get oily quickly. Does not have a lot of natural volume.
Medium Hair
Medium hair is hair that’s between fine and thick.
It is usually easy to style and manage.
Thick Hair
Thick hair is hair that has a diameter.
Thick hair usually feels strong. Can hold styles well. It also looks more voluminous. Takes a long time to dry.
Why People Get Hair Density and Thickness Mixed Up
People get hair density and thickness mixed up because both things affect how full your hair looks.
For example if you have a lot of hair strands your hair can still look very full.
On the hand if you have fewer thick hair strands your hair might still look reasonably full.
How to Check Your Hair Density
You can check your hair density by looking at your scalp.
If you part your hair and can barely see your scalp you likely have hair density.
If you can see some of your scalp but not much you likely have medium hair density.
If you can see a lot of your scalp you likely have hair density.
How to Check Your Hair Thickness
You can check your hair thickness by looking at one strand of hair.
Take one hair strand. Put it between your fingers.
If you can barely feel the strand it is fine hair.
If the strand feels medium it is medium hair.
If the strand feels thick it is thick hair.
Why Hair Density Matters
Hair density affects how volume your hair has what hairstyles you can pull off what products you should use and what kind of haircut you should get.
If you have high-density hair you may want to use products so your hair does not get too heavy.
If you have low-density hair you may want to use volumizing products and hairstyles that make your hair look fuller.
Why Hair Thickness Matters
Hair thickness affects the texture of your hair how easy it is to style how product it absorbs and how it responds to heat styling.
Fine hair can get weighed down by products.
Thick hair usually needs conditioners and moisturizers.
Can Hair Density Change?
Yes hair density can change over time.
Things that can reduce hair density include getting older, genetics, stress, hormonal changes not eating and some medical conditions.
Can Hair Thickness Change?
Yes hair thickness can also change.
Things that can affect hair thickness include changes getting older, hair damage and not eating well.
How to Make Your Hair Look Fuller
Whether you have low-density hair fine hair or both there are things you can do to make your hair look fuller.
You can get a haircut that adds volume use products that do not weigh your hair down avoid using too much heat and take care of your overall hair health.
Common Myths About Hair Density and Thickness
There are some myths about hair density and thickness.
One myth is that thick hair means hair density.
That is not always true. You can have hair strands, but not a lot of them.
Another myth is that fine hair means you are losing your hair.
That is not true. Fine hair is a type of hair.
Some people naturally have hair and it does not mean they are losing their hair.
When to Be Concerned
It is normal for your hair to change a bit over time.
But if you notice changes like your hair is thinning, shedding or falling out you should talk to a doctor.
Final Thoughts
Hair density and hair thickness are two things. Hair density is about how hairs you have on your scalp and hair thickness is about how thick each strand is. Understanding the difference between hair density and hair thickness can help you take care of your hair and make it look its best.
Disclaimer
This article is for information and should not be taken as medical advice.
If you have concerns about your hair you should talk to a doctor.
Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What Is the Difference Between Hair Density and Hair Thickness?
Hair density is the number of hair strands, on your scalp and hair thickness is the width of each strand.
2. Can I Have Thick Hair But Low Density?
Yes you can have hair strands, but not a lot of them.
3. Does Hair Density Decrease With Age?
Yes hair density can decrease as you get older.
4. Can Fine Hair Become Thick?
Hair thickness is mostly determined by genetics. Taking care of your hair can make it look healthier and stronger.
5. How Can I Tell If My Hair Is Low Density?
If you can see a lot of your scalp through your hair you might have low-density hair.