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Does Sea Salt Thicken Hair?

Published in Hair styling 2 mins read

Sea salt, often used in salt sprays, doesn't actually thicken individual hair strands in the sense of making them permanently thicker. However, it does create the appearance of thicker hair.

How Sea Salt Creates the Illusion of Thicker Hair

The primary mechanism by which sea salt creates this effect is through its interaction with the hair fiber. Here’s how it works:

  • Plumping and Expansion: Salt spray causes the hair fiber to swell and expand, which gives a more voluminous and thicker appearance. According to the reference, "Salt spray plumps and expands the hair fibre, giving the appearance of thicker, more voluminous hair."
  • Increased Texture: Sea salt adds texture and grit to the hair, making it appear fuller and less flat. This texture helps hair stand out and hold shape better, enhancing the overall impression of thickness.
  • Enhanced Hold: Sea salt spray provides a light hold to the hair, preventing it from falling flat and thus contributing to a fuller look.

The Benefits of Sea Salt Spray

The reference notes that fine hair types can particularly benefit from the use of salt spray. These benefits include:

  • Adding Volume: As a pre-styling product, salt spray can add significant volume and body to fine hair.
  • Providing Texture: It gives fine, slippery hair some texture, making it easier to style.
  • Supporting Hairstyles: The added hold from salt spray helps to support voluminous hairstyles.
Benefit Description
Appearance of Thickness Plumps and expands the hair fiber, creating the illusion of volume
Added Texture Gives the hair a gritty feel, making it appear fuller
Light Hold Helps hair maintain a style without becoming limp or flat
Suitable for Fine Hair Provides volume and support for styles that are difficult to achieve naturally

In summary, while sea salt doesn't make hair thicker on a cellular level, its ability to add texture, volume and hold makes it a valuable product for those desiring a fuller-looking hairstyle.