When it comes to hair, it seems like everybody wants what they don’t have. But one almost universally-desired trait is volume; a lot of people wish for thicker, fuller hair. Whether you have thin, wispy strands or your hair looks dull and flat, there are options to increase your hair’s thickness safely and naturally, without harming your precious locks.

Use olive oil

Olive oil has so many benefits, many of which extend to hair as well. Loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, olive oil can be applied directly to the hair and scalp to generate the growth of thicker hair. It also soothes dry scalp and softens hair for touchable thick locks. Try olive oil hair treatment for yourself by warming it to body temperature before massaging into hair. Let it sit for at least half an hour and then rinse with shampoo. Some people opt to add honey as well, and others lock the oil in with a shower cap and leave overnight.

Lift roots and add volume

Many people pay a lot of attention to the overall length of their hair when they need to focus on their roots. It’s amazing how some smart teasing can lift roots and create instant volume for a thicker look. Rattail or skinny combs are perfect for gently teasing the roots without too much of a messy look, while blow drying with a ceramic brush offers a similar thickening effect.

Look for avocado products

Avocado is a super fruit with so many health benefits, and it’s an important ingredient in many trending hair treatments. Avocado-based hair products are popular for their moisturizing properties and rich vitamin E content. Avocado provides plenty of nutrients for the hair and scalp to encourage growth and thickness. You can shop the shelves for avocado hair products or make your own by combining one avocado with a tablespoon of olive oil. Apply to hair and scalp and let sit for half an hour before rinsing for the best results.

Eat more eggs

All the protein, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids in eggs are great for hair health. The body needs protein to grow thick hair, and eating more eggs helps, but egg treatments also make a difference. Even doing it once a week for a month may yield the results you’re looking for. Try it at home by beating one or two eggs together and applying the mixture to damp hair, taking care to massage into the scalp. Leave for 30 minutes before shampooing in warm water.

Choose the right cut

You’ve got to work with what nature gave you, which means choosing a hair cut and style that complements your natural hair. Thin hair will weigh itself down if it’s too long, resulting in flat-looking locks. A short or medium cut will give thin hair a lightweight bounce that creates the illusion of thickness and more volume. If your hair is a bit thicker, you can experiment with several lengths to find the right one.

Use dry shampoo

Dry shampoo is a girl’s best friend. Not only does it soak up grease and oil to improve hair’s appearance, but it also gives a big boost of volume to the roots. The best dry shampoos are full of minerals and starches that create friction and produce the desired volume. The more volume you have, the thicker your hair will seem, so bump up your dry shampoo use and see if you like the results.

Try thickening shampoo and conditioner

There are so many different shampoos and conditioners to choose from, but trying special thickening products could improve the way your hair looks and feels. These products offer a relatively affordable way of enhancing thickness and texture. Hairstylists recommend using matching shampoo and conditioner sets for double the nutrients and better results.

Protect hair from heat

Many fancy hairstyles require heat treatments, such as straightening or curling. Flat irons and curling irons can damage hair, which can result in broken strands and split ends that make hair appear thinner. Try cutting back on heat treatments and keeping your hair natural, and you may notice more thickness. Avoid overwashing and use heat protectant spray before styling to keep breakage to a minimum and reduce hair loss. The stronger your strands are, the thicker your hair will be. Plus, your hair will appreciate a break from all that heat.

Try highlights or extensions

Highlights and extensions can give you the thicker-looking hair you’re looking for. Highlighted hair has more dimension and depth, giving off the illusion of thick locks. Highlighted hair typically looks fuller compared to single-tone strands. Quality extensions can be on the expensive side, but essentially adding another layer of length to your hair may be the way to go if you’re ready to top up the thickness.

Visit a dermatologist

Sometimes, at-home remedies or salon treatments may not be enough to give you the thick hair you want. If you notice serious thinning and nothing seems to help, it could be time to visit a dermatologist. Hair loss can be hereditary, while health issues and hormones can also lead to thinning hair. A professional medical diagnosis and treatments may be your key to success with thick, gorgeous hair.