Thinning Hair on Top? Where to Start
Seeing more of your scalp along your part than you used to? Let’s take this one step at a time. Here’s what to keep an eye on, and when to have someone look in person.
Thin is a change over time: fewer or finer strands than you used to have. Always had delicate strands? That’s fine hair, not thinning.
Noticing your hair getting thinner can be upsetting, and you’re not the only one. Ask us anything.
First, a Few Tips
- Take one photo of your usual part each month, same spot, same lamp. Over a few months, those photos will show you what’s really changing.
- Keep washing as normal. The hairs that come out in the shower were already letting go, so there’s no need to skip a wash.
Your Routine, Step by Step
- Wash: lightweight, as often as your scalp needs.
- Condition: light, from the ears down.
- Dry: lower heat, fewer passes, always moving.
Every strand you have deserves good care. Let’s find a routine built around yours.
When It’s More Than Hair
A sore scalp, patches, or smooth, shiny skin? Have someone look at your scalp in person, soon.
If it feels like more than a hair thing, trust that. Have someone look at your scalp in person. You deserve a real answer.
Related: Shedding · Flat · Something changed
Sources: Lee Y et al. Annals of Dermatology 2011;23(4) · DermNet NZ, Telogen effluvium (updated Nov 2019) · American Academy of Dermatology, Hair loss: Signs and symptoms (no date on page) · Davis DS, Callender VD. International Journal of Women’s Dermatology 2018;4(1):18-22. Checked 17 Oct 2026.
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