Thinning Hair Struggles? Here’s How to Care for Your Scalp, Prevent Hair Loss & Boost Confidence

Ciao, Beautiful!

If you’ve ever noticed more hair in your brush than you’d like, you’re not alone. Whether it’s from stress, hormonal changes, autoimmune conditions, aging, or medical treatments like chemotherapy, hair loss can feel deeply personal — and sometimes, overwhelming.

As a licensed esthetician who's certified in oncology esthetics, I’ve worked with women facing hair loss from many different causes, and I want you to know this: your beauty is not defined by your hair. That said, caring for your scalp and using a few smart strategies can help you preserve the hair you have, create the healthiest environment for regrowth, and give you confidence-boosting ways to style in the meantime.

Scalp & Hair Care Tips for Thinning Hair

1. Be gentle with your hair tools.
Use a wide-tooth comb to detangle damp hair and a soft-bristled brush for styling. This reduces unnecessary pulling and breakage — especially important when hair is already fragile.

2. Switch to a pH-balanced, mild shampoo.
Your scalp is skin too, and harsh cleansers can strip it of natural oils, making hair feel more brittle. A gentle, pH-balanced formula helps keep your scalp calm and healthy.  

3. Avoid excessive heat styling.
Flat irons, curling irons, and high-heat blow dryers can weaken hair shafts. When possible, let your hair air-dry or use the lowest heat setting.

4. Talk to your doctor about proven treatments.
Medications like minoxidil (topical) and spironolactone (oral) have been FDA-approved for certain types of hair loss. Only start these after consulting with a medical professional to ensure they’re right for you.

5. For chemo-related hair loss:

• Ask your care team if a cold cap might be an option. Cold caps reduce scalp blood flow during chemotherapy, which may help minimize hair loss.

• If you choose to shave your head, leave about ¼ inch of hair to protect the scalp and reduce the risk of ingrown hairs or infection.

6. Don’t forget SPF on your scalp.
If your scalp is exposed — whether from thinning hair or short styles — apply a sunscreen (SPF 30+) and/or wear a hat to prevent burns and sun damage.

Bonus Makeup Tips for Thinning Hair & Brows

• Fill in sparse brows or hairlines with powder.
  A brow gel with microfibers (if you have some hair and want it to look fuller) or matte eyeshadow powder (if you're mostly working with a hair line - fyi, you can add water and make a long-lasting paste) works wonders for soft, natural-looking coverage.

• Go for a neutral medium tone.
  Even if your hair is darker, a slightly lighter, neutral shade often looks more natural than deep, harsh tones.

• Blend into the hairline.
  Use a small angled brush to feather the powder in lightly — this avoids that “drawn-on” look.

Why Scalp Care Matters

Think of your scalp like the soil for your hair — healthy soil grows stronger plants. By being gentle, avoiding unnecessary damage, and creating a calm, nourished environment, you give your hair the best chance to thrive.

Whether you’re navigating temporary shedding or more permanent thinning, remember: your worth is never tied to your strands. A little TLC, a few smart tricks, and some self-compassion go a long way.

The more you know, the more you glow.

With love,

Jentri

ps. Glow Note:
Hair may frame your face, but it doesn’t define your beauty. Every stage of your hair journey is worthy of care, kindness, and confidence.

pps. for more beauty insider tips & BTS life moments, listen to my Beauty Backroads podcast!