Fine hair refers to the texture of individual hair strands, meaning each strand has a small diameter or thickness. It typically feels silky, smooth, and delicate. People with fine hair have many strands, but each strand is thin, which can make the hair appear less voluminous even though the overall hair density (number of hairs on the scalp) may be normal or high
. Fine hair differs from thin hair, which relates to hair density-the number of hair strands on the scalp. Thin hair means fewer strands, which can make the scalp more visible and hair look sparse, regardless of strand thickness. In contrast, fine hair can have a full head of hair but with very thin strands
Key characteristics of fine hair:
- Individual strands are thinner than average (small diameter).
- Hair feels silky, smooth, and soft.
- Hair may appear flat or limp after washing.
- Fine hair can be more prone to breakage and may require gentle care.
- Styling fine hair often involves adding volume and body to compensate for the thin strands
How to tell if you have fine hair:
- Compare a single hair strand to a thread; if the hair is thinner, it is fine.
- Roll a single strand between your fingers; if you cannot feel it, it is likely fine
In summary, fine hair is defined by the thinness of each hair strand, not by how much hair you have on your head. It is a hair texture characteristic, distinct from thin hair, which refers to hair density
