Two-thirds of men will experience some hair loss by the age of 35, according to the American Hair Loss Association. So instead of hiding behind a hat, Victory Barber & Brand™ Founder Matty Conrad (@mattyconrad) is tackling four common mistakes men make when styling thinning hair and easy fixes for each.  

Mistake #1: Confusing Fine Hair For Thin Hair

How can you tell the difference between fine hair and thinning hair? “Guys with thinning hair tend to have more scalp showing,” Matty explains. “They will need both a cut and a style that will help hide problem areas.”

Guys with fine hair have a lot to work with. It simply lacks volume which can be easily fixed with the right styling products, tools and techniques. 

Mistake #2: Maintaining A Longer Style 

Don’t try to over-compensate with longer locks. While a little more length can help achieve better coverage, it will eventually draw more attention to the diminished density you are dealing with. 

Depending on where hair is the thinnest, Matty shared some style recommendations:

• Thinning hair on the top, but thickness on the sides: “Try keeping the top length no longer than five inches and keep the hair shorter on the sides,” he explains. “This will create a more balanced look and won’t result in length that looks straggly.” 
• An irregular hairline—like a widow’s peak: Choose a style that is more forward flowing. Stay away from slicked back styles and instead try a look that is roughed up and messy.

Real Talk: If you're trying to decide if it is time to shave it all off, your barber will support whatever you choose. “Making the decision to shave your head is a personal one,” Matty explains. “The only right time to completely shave is when you are ready. Embrace the bald and be confident in your decision.” 

Check Out The Grooming Kits From Victory Barber & Brand™ For Everything You Need For At-Home Styling! 

Mistake #3: Air Drying Your Hair  

Blow drying can help create fullness and with the right tools, help stimulate blood flow. Don’t be intimidated by blow drying, practice makes perfect. The more you style your hair, the easy it will be (and the better you will get!) 

Matty shared some need-to-know blow drying tips to help get you started:

• Start with hair products: The key to a healthy head of hair is a healthy scalp. So Matty suggests cleansing with WASH from Victory. “It’s made with natural conditioning oils so it doesn't dry out the hair and scalp," he explains. Then, spray PRIMER on damp hair right before drying. “This is liquid gold for thin hair,” says Matty. “It will give you a foundation for styling, helping hair appear and feel fuller.”  

• Grab the right brush: To give your style some volume, invest in a paddle brush, typically square in shape with plastic bristles that are spaced farther apart.
• When drying, lift the hair away from your head, straight up when working on top and straight out when working in the front. Blow-dry until the hair is completely dry, so it doesn’t clump together throughout the day. 

Real Talk: If using a brush is intimidating, your hand will work just fine. But, a brush will help stimulate the scalp, which is imperative to healthy hair. 

Mistake #4: Choosing Products That Are Too Heavy

Avoid a style that clumps hair together. How? “Don't use products that are shiny or contain heavy oils. They will weigh the hair down and result in a greasy, separated style," Matty explains. 

Instead, choose products that will give your style volume and control with a matte finish. “The SUPER-DRY texture paste from Victory can be applied before or after blow drying. It will help create even more volume and give you control when styling,” Matty explains. 

Styling Tip: Applying too much product will also weigh down the hair. Instead, try to distribute it evenly throughout, and try not to focus too much on thinner areas.

If you need more guidance, don't be afraid to ask your barber before you leave. "We love teaching clients and we want to you to look confident when you leave our chair," Matty explains.