The foundation of thicker hair is scalp massage, says a celebrity hairstylist - here's what you need to use - GB News

[Anna Barry]

While we all dream of thick, luscious locks, only some of us are born with a voluminous mane.

If you weren't born with naturally thick hair but want to give it a boost, a celebrity hairstylist and a hair restoration surgeon shared how you can give your tresses some va-va-voom.

A healthy, hair-boosting diet, effective scalp care and the right product ingredients can help you see major improvements. For an instant fix, it's time to hit the salon.


Celebrity hairstylist Katie Allan, founder of MAYFIVE Hair, told GB News that a healthy diet is a must.

She told GB News: "Hair health starts from within, so maintaining a balanced diet is crucial. Eating foods rich in protein, iron, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins (like A, C, D, and E) can promote hair growth and thickness."

She advised ladies to stock up on eggs, fish, nuts, seeds, leafy greens and berries for hair-boosting benefits.


Salmon is protein-packed and rich in omega-3 fatty acids

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She added: "Staying hydrated is also key, as it helps keep the scalp healthy and supports overall hair growth."

Katie also told women to ensure they are taking care of their scalp correctly - it's the "foundation of thicker hair".

The expert explained that regular scalp massages can stimulate blood circulation and encourage hair growth.

She advised using natural oils such as coconut oil, castor oil or rosemary oil for a gentle scalp massage to "nourish the scalp and strengthen hair follicles".

As for hair washing, the scalp should be kept clean by washing hair with a mild, sulfate-free shampoo. This can prevent buildup and "keep the scalp environment optimal for hair growth".

Katie advised: "Opt for shampoos and conditioners designed to add volume and thickness to the hair. Look for products that are free from sulfates, parabens and silicones, which can weigh hair down over time. Ingredients like biotin, collagen and keratin can help strengthen hair strands, giving them a fuller appearance."

She also advised steering clear of heavy conditioners or leave-in products that can make your hair look "limp and flat".

Styling techniques and practices can also work wonders. The celeb hair guru told women to avoid heat damage.

She explained that "excessive use" of heat styling tools can weaken the hair and lead to thinning.

To avoid heat damage, ladies should let their hair air dry when possible and embrace natural hairstyles. If you simply must whip out a heated tool, a heat protectant spray is an absolute must.


To minimise hair damage and loss, Katie advised women to brush their hair with a wide-toothed comb and be gentle when detangling.

For the illusion of thicker hair, ladies with locks on the thinner side can fake it until they make it. Katie said: "Simple styling techniques can make hair look thicker instantly. Blow-drying your hair upside down can create more volume at the roots, and using a round brush while blow-drying can add lift.

"Hairstyles like loose waves, layered cuts, or a shorter bob can also create the illusion of thicker hair."

While there are plenty of ways women can thicken their hair at home, enlisting the help of a trained professional can also prove helpful.

Katie said: "Regular trims help remove split ends and prevent hair from looking thin. Trimming every six to eight weeks can promote healthier hair growth."

Hair restoration surgeon at Kopelman Hair Restoration Dr Joel Kopelman also spoke to GB News about how women can achieve thicker locks naturally.

He said: "As someone who treats hair loss on a daily basis, I know that achieving thicker hair naturally is a common concern for many women.

"From my experience, I always emphasise the importance of a balanced diet. Protein is a fundamental building block for hair since it’s made of keratin, so I advise my patients to incorporate foods like lean meats, fish, eggs and plant-based proteins like quinoa.

"Omega-3 fatty acids from salmon, flaxseeds and walnuts are another key component, as they help maintain scalp health and prevent thinning.

"Deficiencies in iron and zinc can also contribute to hair loss, so I recommend foods like spinach, beans, and fortified cereals to help address those gaps. I also find that biotin-rich foods, such as eggs and avocados, are fantastic for promoting stronger, thicker hair."


When it comes to topical treatments, the expert suggested opting for natural oils. He said: "Coconut oil, for instance, is a favourite because it penetrates the hair shaft, preventing protein loss and leaving the hair feeling thicker.

"Castor oil is another great option - it contains ricinoleic acid, which boosts circulation to the scalp, stimulating hair growth."

Other great options are rosemary oil for follicle stimulation and peppermint oil to increase blood flow to the scalp.

Like hairstylist to the stars Katie, Dr Joel recommended a spot of scalp massage for hair-boosting benefits.

He advised mixing the above oils with a "carrier oil" like coconut or jojoba to ensure they’re "well-tolerated".

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'Hairstyles like loose waves, layered cuts or a shorter bob can create the illusion of thicker hair'

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The hair expert advised being mindful when shopping for hair care products, making sure to choose the most effective ingredients.

Dr Joel said: "I always tell my patients to look for ingredients that will directly support their hair growth goals."

He recommended keratin-based products to strengthen the hair shaft and niacinamide to improve hair density. For a hydrated scalp, go for hyaluronic acid, and caffeine to block DHT, the hormone responsible for thinning hair.

For added "strength and fullness", the surgeon also advised opting for products fortified with biotin and collagen.

Next up is the "strategic salon treatment". Dr Joel said: "I often suggest asking for layered haircuts to add volume and movement, as it helps create the appearance of thicker hair.

"Texturising the ends is also a good technique to reduce weight and boost fullness. Scalp treatments at salons can exfoliate the scalp and increase circulation."

For an almost instant fix, a volumising blow-dry using a round brush can "lift the roots and make the hair look much fuller".

Top tips for thicker hair

• Enjoy a healthy diet rich in vitamins, proteins, iron and omega-3 fatty acids
• Stay hydrated
• Practise excellent scalp care, including scalp massage with hair-boosting oils
• Avoid hair products that contain sulfates, parabens and silicones
• Look for products that contain biotin, collagen, keratin, niacinimide and hyaluronic acid
• Steer clear of heavy conditioners or leave-in products that cause limpness
• Apply heat protectant when using heated hair tools
• Brushing with a wide-toothed comb
• Regular trims (every six to eight weeks)
• For the illusion of thicker hair, try styling techniques like blow-drying your hair upside down and using a round brush, and opt for cuts that create volume

For ladies looking for more hair insights, a stylist with 30 years of experience named the long hair mistake that is ageing you faster.