When you have thin hair, the way you style it can make all the difference. So if you’re tired of feeling like the sun puts a spotlight on your scalp, or how every haircut you go with feels flat, we’re going to change that. In this guide, you’ll learn all about the best haircuts for men with thin hair, plus some expert tips we share with every client who visits our hair salon in Ridgewood.
Is it Better to Go with a Long or Short Style If You Have Thin Hair?
If you have thin hair, shorter hairstyles generally work better.
- Short hairstyles are much easier to manage and can make your hair look fuller.
- Since they’re easier to style, they also tend to have more volume—thin hair often feels flat.
- If you have spots where your hair is thinner, short styles can help minimize that contrast.
- You’ll also need less time to style and maintain it.
When Long Hair Might Work
If you have thin hair but still want to go with a longer hairstyle, there are a few situations where this could work.
For example, if your hair is evenly thin without any patchy or receding areas. It could also work if you’re going for a specific look, like a slick back or a man bun. Just be comfortable knowing there may be some transparency at times.
Best Haircuts for Men with Thin Hair
Thinning hair doesn’t mean giving up on style. The key is picking a cut that works with what you’ve got (this also includes a face shape). These are the best haircuts for men with thin hair:
1. Buzz Cut
When in doubt, take it all down. A buzz cut keeps everything short and uniform, which minimizes the contrast between thick and thin spots.
Additionally, this one is ideal for men with noticeable thinning or a receding hairline. And as a good peer, it’s as low-maintenance as it gets.
2. Crew Cut
This hairstyle is still short, but with just enough length on top to add shape. That little bit of height can help balance thinning areas.
If you have mild to moderate thinning, go for it. It also grows out well without looking messy.
3. Short Textured Crop
Uneven layers and choppy ends help fake the look of thicker hair. In addition, the texture can break up the scalp’s visibility.
It’s great for men who have thinning at the crown or overall fine hair that needs a visual boost.
Pro tip: Ask your barber for point cutting or razor texturing for maximum effect.
4. Side Part with Taper Fade
This haircut gives structure and hides early hairline recession. Pair it with a fade, and you’ve got a distraction from any top thinning.
This one is great if you have temple thinning or a receding front. And as a bonus, it looks sharp enough for both the office and the weekend.
5. Messy or Tousled Top
Messy styles add movement, which makes your hair look fuller. No one’s noticing thin spots when your hair has natural volume and flow.
Pro tip: Use a matte clay or paste to get volume without shine. Glossy products can expose the scalp.
6. Slicked-Back Undercut
If you’ve still got decent volume on top, slicking it back over a tight undercut makes that hair work harder. It’s sleek, bold, and tidy.
Heads up: Skip this one if your crown is sparse, it’ll only highlight it.
7. Faux Hawk or Spiky Style
Vertical styles pull the eye upward and give the illusion of thickness. Great for faking fullness where you need it.
This one is the best for men with thinning at the crown, but still enough coverage to spike it up.
Tip: Don’t go full ‘90s gel. Use a dry, volumizing product for a modern look.
The Must-Have Products for Thinning Hair
The right haircut helps, but the right products make it. If your hair’s getting thinner, these products can give you volume, hold, and a whole lot more confidence.
Volumizing Shampoo
Regular shampoo can weigh thin hair down. Volumizing shampoo lifts from the root and makes your hair feel fuller.
Look for: Sulfate-free formulas with ingredients like biotin, caffeine, or keratin.
Lightweight Conditioner
Conditioner helps prevent breakage, but heavy ones flatten fine hair. A lightweight or “volumizing” conditioner can give hydration without the droop.
Pro tip: Only use it on the ends, not your scalp.
Matte Styling Clay or Paste
Shiny products can put a spotlight on your scalp. Matte products give hold and shape without reflecting light off thinning areas. They also add grip and texture.
Best for: Messy crops, tousled tops, or anything that needs volume.
Texturizing Powder
This one gives you an instant volume. Just sprinkle a bit at the roots, and your hair looks thicker in seconds. It’s a game-changer for flat spots.
Heads up: Don’t overdo it. This stuff’s powerful.
Thickening Spray or Mousse
These coat each strand, making your hair feel denser. Use them before blow-drying for max effect.
Best for: Faux hawks, brush-ups, or any style that needs extra lift.
Dry Shampoo
It soaks up oil, adds texture, and builds instant body. Great on days you skip a wash, or need a quick pick-me-up.
Bonus: It adds grip, which helps with styling.
Final Thoughts
With the right cut and a few key products, you can boost volume, hide thinning spots, and style your hair with confidence. Whether you’re into clean fades, messy texture, or something sharp and structured, there’s a look that’ll work for you.
If you’re in Ridgewood and ready to find the right style for your hair, come see us at Artists & Architects Salon. We’ll help you choose a cut that fits your hair, your face, and your lifestyle. Book your appointment today and let’s get your next go-to look locked in.
FAQ
What’s the best haircut for men with thinning hair on top?
A short textured crop or crew cut works best. Both add shape and reduce contrast between thin and thick areas.
Can a certain haircut make my hair look thicker?
Yes. Textured styles with layers or volume on top help create the illusion of thicker hair.
Is it okay to grow long hair if I have thin hair?
It can work if your hair is evenly thin with no patchy spots. Just know it may look a bit transparent.
Can haircuts fix patchy or uneven thinning?
They can’t fix it, but the right cut can hide it. Fades, crops, and side parts help minimize the contrast.
What hairstyles should I avoid if I have thin hair?
Avoid flat, middle-part styles or slick looks with shine. They expose the scalp and make hair look thinner.
Does blow drying help with volume for fine hair?
Yes. Blow drying with a volumizing product lifts the roots and makes your hair look fuller.
