How to Add Volume to Men's Hair

Reviewed by  Maria Maureen Ablen, MD
Written by  Maria Maureen Ablen, MD
Published 05/01/2025

Flat or thinning hair can be a real confidence shaker—but with the right approach, adding volume and fullness is absolutely within reach. Whether you’re dealing with naturally fine hair or experiencing a little thinning, this guide will help you boost your hair’s body and style.

Here’s everything Filipino men need to know about achieving thicker-looking hair naturally.

How to Add Volume to Hair Men

If you’re noticing hair thinning, want your hair to appear thicker, or are hoping to rock a style that looks best with some height, you’re probably wondering how to add volume to men’s hair. While you can’t do much about your natural hair type, there are easy steps you can take to add more volume to your hair.

Below, we’ll explain what hair volume actually means, nine tips for how to add volume to men’s hair (including how to add volume if you’re experiencing hair loss), and a few more pointers on what to avoid when trying to get voluminous hair.

Why Hair Volume Matters

Fuller hair isn’t just about looks—it’s often tied to how youthful, confident, and healthy you feel. Thicker hair can:

  • Frame your face better

  • Enhance any hairstyle

  • Boost overall self-esteem

  • Create a more polished, professional appearance

According to Healthline, consistent care and styling can make a huge difference in hair volume and texture over time.

Understanding What Affects Hair Volume

Several factors influence how voluminous your hair appears:

  • Hair Thickness: The diameter of each strand

  • Hair Density: The number of hairs per square inch of scalp

  • Hair Type: Straight hair tends to lie flat, while wavy or curly hair appears thicker

  • Scalp Health: A healthy scalp supports stronger, fuller hair

  • Genetics: Your DNA plays a major role but isn’t the only factor

Knowing where your hair falls in these categories helps you choose the right strategy.

Common Causes of Flat or Limp Hair

Before fixing the problem, identify what’s causing it:

  • Product buildup: Excess gels, waxes, or oils weigh hair down

  • Oily scalp: Grease flattens hair roots

  • Over-conditioning: Too much conditioner at the roots can sap volume

  • Heat damage: Overuse of blow dryers or straighteners weakens hair structure

  • Aging: Natural thinning can occur over time

  • Hormonal changes: Testosterone levels can affect hair density

How to Naturally Add Volume to Your Hair

1. Start With the Right Shampoo and Conditioner

  • Use lightweight, volumizing shampoos and conditioners. Look for products labeled "volumizing," "thickening," or "clarifying."
  • Avoid heavy moisturizing shampoos if you have fine hair.

  • Condition only the ends of your hair—never the scalp.

Key Filipino-friendly ingredients to look for:

  • Aloe Vera (hydrating without weighing down)

  • Coconut-derived cleansers (gentle yet effective)

  • Gugo Bark (natural scalp cleanser)

2. Blow-Dry Like a Pro

Blow-drying can be a volume game-changer if done right.

  • Use a heat protectant to prevent damage.

  • Flip your head upside down while drying to lift roots.

  • Use a round brush to pull hair upward and out.

  • Diffuse curly hair to keep natural texture and volume.

  • Finish with a cool shot to set the style in place.

Check out Verywell Health’s guide for more techniques on healthy hair handling.

3. Use Lightweight, Volumizing Styling Products

Ditch heavy gels and waxes. Instead, opt for:

  • Volumizing mousse

  • Sea salt sprays for beachy texture

  • Texturizing powders for lift at the roots

Apply products sparingly, starting at the roots and working your way up.

Tip: A little goes a long way—especially in humid Philippine weather!

4. Get the Right Haircut for Volume

The cut makes the difference!

  • Layered Cuts: Remove bulk at the sides, add volume on top

  • Tapered Sides: Make the top look thicker by contrast

  • Textured Fringe: Adds body without needing long hair

  • Messy Quiff or Pompadour: Big volume styles that look natural and modern

Talk to your barber about cuts designed to enhance fullness, and bring photo references for best results.

5. Boost Scalp Health

Healthy hair starts at the scalp. Keep your scalp clean and nourished by:

  • Using clarifying shampoo once a week to remove buildup

  • Doing regular scalp massages to stimulate blood flow

  • Applying natural oils like argan, castor, or coconut oil occasionally

According to Cleveland Clinic, scalp massage may even help prevent some types of hair thinning.

Bonus Tip: Try peppermint oil for scalp stimulation—it’s been shown to support hair thickness.

6. Nourish Hair From the Inside

Your hair reflects what you eat. Make sure your meals include:

  • Protein: Fish, chicken, tofu

  • Zinc: Shellfish, beef, nuts

  • Biotin: Eggs, bananas, sweet potatoes

  • Iron: Spinach, lentils

  • Omega-3s: Tuna, sardines

Hydration is crucial too—drink plenty of water every day.

Superfoods for hair health:

  • Malunggay (Moringa)

  • Kamote (sweet potato)

  • Mangoes (rich in vitamin C)

7. Limit Heat and Chemical Exposure

  • Air-dry when possible to prevent heat damage.

  • If you must style, use lower heat settings.

  • Limit chemical treatments like bleaching and rebonding.

Protecting hair now means thicker, stronger hair later.

8. Don’t Overwash

Shampooing daily can strip natural oils and make hair limp.

  • Wash every 2–3 days if possible.

  • Use dry shampoo between washes for added texture and lift.

In the humid Philippine climate, adjusting your routine based on sweat levels and activity is key.

9. Try Gentle Hair Accessories

Skip tight ponytails or harsh clips. Instead, use:

  • Soft fabric bands

  • Wide-tooth combs for wet hair

  • Gentle claw clips for casual styling

10. Style Smart Every Day

Daily habits that build volume:

  • Change your part: Switching sides adds instant lift.

  • Use volumizing dry shampoo even on clean hair.

  • Finger-style your hair to create a tousled, airy look.

Small tweaks build lasting habits for fuller, healthier hair.

Bonus Hair Hacks for Instant Volume

  • Towel-dry gently: Pat, don't rub aggressively.

  • Use Velcro rollers: Old-school but effective for lift.

  • Sleep with a satin pillowcase: Reduces friction and breakage overnight.

  • Experiment with Pre-Stylers: Products applied before blow-drying to build invisible volume.

Professional Treatments to Consider

If you’re struggling with serious thinning or hair loss, professional options can help:

  • Minoxidil: Over-the-counter topical treatment

  • Finasteride: Oral prescription medication

  • PRP Therapy: Platelet-rich plasma injections

  • Hair transplants: Surgical option for severe cases

Always consult with a licensed healthcare provider before starting treatments. You can explore options through andyou.ph’s Hair Growth Solutions.

Confidence Grows with Care

Adding volume to your hair isn't just a cosmetic win—it’s a lifestyle choice toward better health, grooming, and self-esteem. Thicker, fuller hair isn’t just about looks. It’s about feeling empowered to step into every room, every opportunity, and every moment with confidence. With a little consistency in daily habits, a few styling tricks, and the right mindset, fuller, more vibrant hair is absolutely achievable. Take pride in your hair—it’s a visible sign of the care you put into yourself. Feel good, look good, live fully—starting with every strand.