Hair Density Vs Hair Texture - What is the Difference?

by Brianna Thompson

Hair density and hair texture are two important characteristics that determine the look and feel of our hair. Although the terms may seem similar, they refer to different aspects of our hair.

 

Hair Density 

Hair density refers to the number of hair strands on your head, which can range from high to low depending on factors such as genetics, age, and certain medical conditions. Hair density is categorized as thin or thick. Thin meaning there is less and thick meaning more.

 

 

 

Scalp Test for Hair Density 

Give your hair a deep cleanse and air dry it to its natural state. Don't part it or apply any product. Just let it be free.

Now it’s time to look in the mirror and pay special attention to your scalp. If you can easily see your scalp without parting or sectioning, then you probably have low-density hair. If there are only a few places where you can partially see your scalp, you’re probably have medium density, and if you can’t see it at all, then you have high-density hair.

 

Managing Your Hair Density

 Low Density 

Low density means you have less hair which can make it  easier to manage because there are fewer strands, but heavy products can make it look flat and dull. The best option is to use lightweight stylers in the form of lotions and experiment with techniques like root-clipping or fluffing to add volume.. For straighter or slightly wavy hair, make sure to use lightweight products and use shampoos made for thin hair that are made to add more density to your look. These are usually shampoos that are made for volume. Also use volumizing blowout techniques like rollers to achieve the most volume.

Medium Density

Medium-density hair can have varying degrees of volume, but when it grows longer, it can become flat and stretched out.  This often can become an unwanted triangle shape in your curly cut. A proper haircut can help create bounce, volume, and separation, which reduces the weight on the curls. For straighter or slightly wavy hair, your hair is pretty manageable and has a great time achieving volume, and with some layers you would be able to style with ease. 

High Density

High-density hair can be a challenge to manage because it's thick and voluminous. My thick hair ladies absolutely dread wash day, It can be a serious workout! To make it more manageable, it's best to work in sections during washing and styling. After applying conditioner, divide the hair into sections and detangle each with a wet brush or wide tooth comb before loosely braiding it to keep it apart from the rest. Styling section by section ensures that the product is evenly applied, and the curls are well defined. This can also be the same for other hair textures, as sectioning the hair overall makes it easier to manage and detangle with ease. This also helps apply all kinds of products evenly to get consistent results. 

 Hair Texture 

Hair texture refers to the thickness or diameter of each individual hair strand, which can be categorized as fine, medium, or coarse. Hair texture is largely determined by genetics but can also be influenced by external factors such as heat styling, chemical treatments, and environmental factors like humidity.

 

 

 How to Manage Your Hair Texture 

Fine Hair 

For those with fine hair, using a volumizing shampoo and conditioner can give your hair more body. Avoiding heavy styling products is also important, and instead, you can try using a light styling mousse or root-lifting spray to add volume at the roots. Blow-drying your hair upside down and using a round brush can help create more volume and movement.

Medium Hair 

If you have medium hair, using a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner can help prevent frizz and add shine. Using a leave-in conditioner can also be helpful for detangling and protecting your hair. You can try using a light styling cream or gel to define curls or waves, or light mousses for extra volume. and a diffuser attachment can enhance those curls or waves while blow-drying. You can also use a flat iron or curling iron for more defined curls or waves.

Coarse Hair 

For my coarse hair, girls, a hydrating shampoo and conditioner is essential for adding moisture and softness. Using a deep conditioning treatment once a week can also keep your hair healthy and nourished by providing deep moisture. A leave-in conditioner or hair oil can help add moisture and shine, while a heavy styling cream or butter can define curls or waves and control frizz. Using a diffuser attachment while blow-drying can enhance curls or waves, and a flat iron or straightening brush can help smooth out your hair and control frizz.

What is the difference?

The difference between hair texture is that hair density means there is more or less hair on your head whereas hair texture is how thick each hair strand is. 

If you are unsure of what your hair texture or density is, consult with a stylist here at The Warehouse Salon so they can help recommend products for your hair type. 

It is important to understand the difference between hair density and hair texture in order to properly care for your hair. By identifying your hair's unique characteristics, you can choose the right hair care products and styling techniques that will help keep your hair healthy and looking its best.

 

Summary: 

If you are unsure on what steps to take to knowing your hair density or hair texture, consult with one of our stylists at the Warehouse Salon and Studio 360 so we can help create the best hair routine for your hair type. 


Leave a comment

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.


About the Author

Brianna Thompson

More about Brianna