Asian hair can come in a variety of densities and unique textures. Chinese and Oriental Asian hair is typically considered thin Asian hair. Compare this to East Asian hair which is stronger and thicker.
What are some of the unique challenges that come with styling and caring for Asian hair?
Follow along as we supply expert tips on how to style thin Asian hair for a fuller look.
How is Asian Hair Different?
Asian hair is usually characterized stronger and thicker, in comparison to other hair types. That is because East Asian hair cuticles are thicker and hair diameter is double the size of Caucasian hair. Given the thickness, it creates the illusion of a fuller head, even though Asian hair types usually have less number of hairs.
The hair cuticle is the outermost part of the hair shaft. It is formed in layers and strengthens and protects the hair shaft.1
So Asian hair tends to be thicker individually, but a lot of times there is less overall number of hairs on the scalp.
Asian hair has the quickest growth rates and longest growth cycle, making it less prone to hair loss. The average hair growth in a given year is 15.3 cm and a growth cycle is 9 years. As mentioned earlier there are a variety of different Asian hair types and some can experience thin Asian hair.
Asian hair follicles are generally round in form, this causes the hair to grow out straight more naturally. Hair like this tends to retain moisture better because oils can travel down the hair shaft easier. Moisture has a harder time traveling into the ends of curly hair because of waves and coils.
Having more cuticles protecting the hair shaft increases elasticity and flexibility. This makes your hair even more resistant to breakage and therefore split ends are less likely.
Hair Types
Even though a majority of Asian hair is defined as being slick and straight, there are in fact a number of characteristics that can be used to define this kind of hair, besides fine and thin like coarse or frizzy.
With so many different textures and densities, it’s not a surprise that styling Asian hair can prove challenging. In particular, the techniques used to style thin Asian hair may not be the same that are used to style other hair types.
Now let’s begin to dive deeper into how to style and care for Asian hair!
Caring for Thin Asian Hair
Although Asian hair comes in a variety of types we will be primarily focusing on thin Asian hair since it comes with some of the most unique challenges when it comes to styling and healthy maintenance.
As mentioned earlier, straighter hair tends to allow for more oils from the scalp to travel down the hair shaft. Oily hair tends to require more maintenance and cleaning.
Choose shampoos and conditioners that are free of sulfates and parabens. Buying shampoos and conditioners such as these will help add density and volume to thin hair.
When it comes to washing, focus on the scalp since this is where most of the build up of oils tends to happen. But be sure to use your hands to scrub, and not your finger nails. You may cause damage to the scalp for those with thin hair. Showering at cooler temperatures can also help increase shine and minimize hair loss. Cold showers have a variety of other health benefits too!
Styling Thin Asian Hair
Try sticking to hair styling products with natural ingredients and avoid ones that contain heavy oils. For example, try using a lighter hold spray when choosing a hair spray.
And of course, if you want to add additional volume to your hair quickly, we must recommend hair fibers. Revive Hair fibers can make even the thinnest hair look thicker. How it works is by attaching to and mimicking the look of your existing hairs.
Another thing to consider when styling and caring for thin Asian hair is any potential stresses. Avoid using products that contain harsh ingredients and limit the use of heat tools. Curling irons and other irons are a great way to create the appearance of fuller hair. But if you’re trying to avoid damage, a quick and easy alternative is hair fibers. Hair fibers styled with a light hold spray can do wonders when it comes to adding the appearance of thickness and volume.
- 1.Cuticle (hair). Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cuticle_(hair). Published May 18, 2019. Accessed February 18, 2020.