How to Handle a Receding Hairline
As you get older, it's not uncommon to develop a receding hairline. Age isn't the only thing that spurs hair loss, though. Thyroid issues, low estrogen or a genetic condition called androgenetic alopecia may also cause problems. Both men and women can suffer from a receding hairline, but the issue is most prevalent in males. For many people, hair loss is an embarrassing problem that can negatively impact professional and social life. If your tapering hairline bothers you, don't ignore it -- instead, find a way to make it work for you.
The right haircut can cleverly conceal a receding hairline. (Image: Kelvin Murray/Taxi/Getty Images)Step 1
Ask your stylist to cut your hair short. Work a dab of gel or hair wax into your hair, then tousle it a bit with your fingers. Alternatively, ask for the short Caesar cut. With this cut, a stylist trims the back and sides of your hair short and leaves the top longer. Brush the top of your hair forward and use gel or wax to hold it in place. If you have long hair, you can also pull it back in a ponytail.
Step 2
Get a buzz cut or shave your head. These cuts conceal a receding hairline almost completely. A buzz cut or bald head requires regular maintenance. Don't let your hair grow back to more than 1/8 inch long. If it grows longer, your receding hairline will become noticeable. These styles pair well with facial hair such as a goatee.
Step 3
Cut your hair to about shoulder length or shorter if you're female. Longer hair can look thin and wispy. If your hair is thick in front but thinning at the crown, opt for a style that includes bangs. Layered hair appears thinner, so have hair cut with blunt ends instead.
Step 4
Sprinkle hair with volumizing powder before styling, then work it in with your fingers. This powder makes hair look thicker and fuller. Pressed hair powders make exposed parts of your scalp look less shiny, so they won't seem as noticeable. Powders that contain keratin fibers stick to your hair and temporarily fill in thinning patches.
Step 5
Treat your scalp with a topical minoxidil medication. Minoxidil stimulates hair growth and may correct a receding hairline. Apply the product twice per day when your hair and scalp are dry. Rub the product into your scalp where hair is thinning. If any of the product gets on your forehead or face, rinse it off with water. It usually takes two months to see results. If you stop using the product, you will have hair loss again. Minoxidil may irritate or dry out skin in some people.
Step 6
Wear a wig. Wigs are available for both women and men, and you can choose from hundreds of styles to find one that suits you. Wigs made from real human hair are expensive but will look more natural compared to synthetic ones.
Things You'll Need
Volumizing powder
Pressed hair powder
Keratin-fiber hair powder
Minoxidil medication
Wig
Tip
Vitamin D, iron and zinc may slow down hair loss if you're deficient in them. Vitamin and nutrient supplements will not make hair grow back, however. If you're concerned about a deficiency, ask your doctor to perform a blood test.
