How to Get Thick Hair Naturally: Proven Tips, Foods, Oils & Home Remedies

Understanding the root causes of thinning hair can help you target the issue more effectively. Here are some common culprits:

• Genetics: Hereditary hair thinning or androgenetic alopecia is one of the most common reasons for reduced hair density.
• Hormonal Changes: Pregnancy, menopause, thyroid disorders, and hormonal imbalances (such as PCOS) can trigger hair thinning.
• Nutritional Deficiencies: Lack of essential nutrients like protein, iron, zinc, biotin, and vitamins D and B12 can lead to weaker, thinning hair.
• Stress: Physical or emotional stress can cause a temporary condition called telogen effluvium, where more hairs than usual enter the shedding phase.
• Overstyling and Heat Damage: Frequent use of heat tools, chemical treatments, and tight hairstyles can weaken hair and lead to breakage and thinning over time.
• Scalp Conditions: Issues like dandruff, psoriasis, or fungal infections can affect scalp health and inhibit hair growth.
• Aging: As we age, hair naturally becomes finer and thinner due to slower cell regeneration and reduced follicle activity.
• Medication and Medical Treatments: Certain medications, such as those for blood pressure, depression, or chemotherapy, can cause hair loss as a side effect.
• Poor Hair Care Practices: Overwashing, harsh shampoos, or not cleansing the scalp properly can disrupt the hair growth cycle.

Here are some time-tested natural solutions you can try at home:

Packed with sulphur, onion juice stimulates the scalp and strengthens follicles. To use it:

• Blend half a raw onion and strain the juice.
• Apply to your scalp, massage gently, leave for 30 minutes, and wash off. Use this method 1–2 times a week to see improvement in breakage and texture.

These are rich in protein and nicotinic acid and this hair ritual is said to encourage new growth and add shine.

• Soak 2 tablespoons overnight, grind into a paste the next day, and apply to your scalp.
• Leave on for 30 minutes and then rinse.

Aloe soothes the scalp and strengthens strands without greasiness.

• Massage 3–4 tablespoons of fresh gel into your scalp.
• Leave for an hour before shampooing. This can promote hydration and reduce itchiness—great for overall scalp health.

High in vitamin C and antioxidants, amla is known to prevent premature greying and boost strength.

• Mix equal parts amla powder with water or coconut oil to form a paste.
• Massage into your scalp and rinse after 30–40 minutes. Use once a week to enhance thickness and shine.

These home remedies for hair growth and thickness are simple, effective, and perfect for DIY lovers.

It's true—your diet directly impacts your hair health. If you're aiming for naturally thicker, stronger strands, what you put on your plate matters just as much as what you put on your scalp. Prioritise the following nutrients to feed your follicles from within:

Your hair is made primarily of keratin, a type of protein. Without enough protein in your diet, your body may struggle to produce this essential building block, leading to weaker, more brittle hair.

Best sources:

• Eggs – Rich in protein and also contain biotin, which further supports hair growth.
• Lentils – A great plant-based protein option that also provides iron.
• Chicken and Fish – Lean meats like chicken and oily fish like salmon supply complete proteins and essential fatty acids.
• Dairy Products – Yogurt, cheese, and milk offer a healthy dose of protein, along with calcium for stronger follicles.

Why it helps: Adequate protein intake ensures your hair has the raw materials it needs to grow thicker and stay in the growth phase longer.

Biotin (Vitamin B7) plays a key role in the production of keratin, making it vital for both hair growth and strength. A deficiency in biotin can lead to thinning, dull, or brittle hair.

Best sources:

• Nuts – Especially almonds and walnuts, which also contain healthy fats.
• Seeds – Sunflower seeds and flaxseeds are excellent choices.
• Sweet Potatoes – Also rich in beta-carotene, which converts to vitamin A to help with scalp health.

Why it helps: Biotin improves the infrastructure of keratin and supports stronger hair strands, reducing breakage and encouraging thickness.

Zinc plays an important role in hair tissue repair and helps keep the oil glands around the hair follicles functioning properly. A zinc deficiency can lead to hair shedding and a dry, flaky scalp.

Best sources:

• Pumpkin Seeds – A powerhouse snack that delivers a strong dose of zinc.
• Avocados – Contain zinc as well as vitamin E and healthy fats.
• Beans and Legumes – Especially chickpeas, lentils, and kidney beans.

Why it helps: Zinc supports the scalp environment, reduces inflammation, and helps prevent follicle regression, which is key to maintaining thick, healthy hair.

Omega-3s help promote a well-hydrated scalp, improve hair elasticity, and fight inflammation that can damage hair follicles. They also add shine and smoothness to your strands.

Best sources:

• Fatty Fish – Salmon, mackerel, and sardines are rich in omega-3s and protein.
• Walnuts – A great plant-based source that also offers biotin and vitamin E.
• Chia Seeds & Flaxseeds – Easy to add to smoothies, oatmeal, or salads.

Why it helps: Omega-3s feed the scalp with essential oils and nutrients, creating the perfect environment for thick, vibrant hair to thrive.

Including these in your everyday meals aka food for hair growth and thickness—lays the foundation for stronger, fuller strands.

Oiling isn't just soothing, it can help thicken hair when done right. But if you're wondering which is the best oil for hair growth and thickness, there is more than one answer. Different types of oils have different properties and help your hair in different ways.

• Castor Oil: Rich in ricinoleic acid, Castor Oil for hair helps reduce hair breakage and promote thickness. Best warmed and massaged into the scalp.
• Coconut Oil: Penetrates hair cuticles, reduces protein loss, and adds shine.It also has antimicrobial properties that promote a healthier scalp and prevent dandruff.
• Rosemary Oil: Shown to stimulate follicles and combat hair thinning. Mix a few drops with your shampoo or add to a carrier oil.
• Bhringraj Oil: The Indulekha hair oil brimming with bhringraj, amla, and neem, helps with scalp health and hair strength. You can also pair it with the Indulekha Bringha Ayurvedic Shampoo that gently cleanses while preserving your natural oils. It's ideal for maintaining that oiling routine without weighing strands down.

If you're short on time, opting for a hair thickening serum with these botanical extracts and peptides can be another fantastic option—easy to apply and effective in improving hair density over time.

Getting thicker hair isn't just about slapping on treatments—it's about nurturing the scalp and lifestyle. Here's how:

• Scalp massages Regular scalp massages using oils or nourishing serums help stimulate blood circulation to the hair follicles. Improved blood flow means better delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the roots, which can support stronger, thicker hair growth over time. Massaging also helps reduce stress, which is a known contributor to hair fall.
• Avoid tight hairstyles Constantly wearing tight ponytails, buns, braids, or extensions can put excessive tension on your hair roots. This repeated pulling can lead to a condition called traction alopecia—gradual hair loss caused by strain on the follicles. Opt for looser styles and give your hair regular breaks to prevent permanent damage.
• Limit heat styling aFrequent use of hair dryers, straighteners, and curling irons can weaken the hair shaft, making it dry, brittle, and more prone to breakage. Similarly, chemical treatments like perming, relaxing, or coloring strip hair of its natural moisture and protein. Reduce heat styling, use heat protectants, and choose gentle alternatives to maintain healthy, resilient hair.
• Hydration: Drinking enough water is crucial for overall health—and that includes your hair. Hydrated hair is less prone to dryness, breakage, and split ends. Aim for at least 7–8 glasses of water daily to keep your scalp and hair follicles well-moisturized from within.
• Hair Masks: Weekly hair masks packed with natural ingredients like aloe vera, yogurt, honey, or banana can deeply nourish the hair shaft, repair damage, and improve thickness. DIY masks or store-bought treatments rich in proteins, oils, and vitamins can restore shine and elasticity to limp, thinning hair.
• Be Gentle with Wet Hair: Hair is at its weakest when wet and can easily stretch, snap, or break with rough handling. Always use a wide-tooth comb to detangle, avoid vigorous towel drying, and pat your hair gently instead. If possible, let it air-dry rather than using heat tools.
• Use Silk or Satin Pillowcases: Cotton pillowcases can cause friction, leading to hair breakage and frizz while you sleep. Switching to a silk or satin pillowcase reduces friction and helps maintain hair moisture, preventing unnecessary damage overnight.
• Trim Regularly: Regular trims (every 6–8 weeks) help remove split ends and prevent them from traveling up the hair shaft. Though trimming doesn't make hair grow faster, it keeps it looking fuller and healthier, which contributes to the appearance of thicker hair.
• Avoid Overwashing: Washing your hair too frequently can strip away natural oils that protect and nourish the scalp and hair. Depending on your hair type, washing 2–3 times a week is usually sufficient. Use sulfate-free shampoos and follow up with a conditioner to maintain moisture balance.
• Protect Hair from Sun Damage: Just like your skin, your hair and scalp can suffer from sun exposure. UV rays can dry out hair, fade color, and weaken strands. When spending time outdoors, wear a hat or use a UV-protection hair spray to shield your locks.

What To Do

• Use onion, amla or aloe hair masks
• Include biotin, omega‑3s, and protein in your meals
• Oil with castor, coconut, or rosemary oil
• Stick to consistent scalp massage and mild shampooing

What Not To Do

• Strengthen and nourish from the root
• Builds healthier strands internally
• Adds moisture, reduces breakage, and stimulates the scalp
• Enhances absorption and maintains scalp balance
• Supports thickness with proven ingredients

Want to get thick hair naturally? Start with the basics — clean nutrition, gentle scaping, and nourishing treatments. Whether it's home remedies for hair growth and thickness, targeted oils, or scalp care, consistency is your greatest ally. And with trusted products, you're pairing tradition and science in a way that your hair and confidence will thank you for.

A: Yes, with consistent care, healthy diet, and scalp support—visible results can be seen in 8–12 weeks.

A: 1–2 times per week is optimal. Frequency beyond that can cause buildup.

A: Not recommended. Use only once or twice a week, and always patch-test if you have sensitive skin.

A: For early-stage thinning, these methods can encourage regrowth. Advanced baldness may require medical advice.