How to Grow Thicker Hair on the Sides: A Practical Plan

Growing thicker hair on the sides comes down to figuring out what's actually thinning your hair there, then matching your approach to that specific cause. For most people, the culprit is androgenetic alopecia (pattern hair loss), traction from styling, a hormonal shift, or a nutritional gap, and each of those responds to a different strategy. Minoxidil, scalp massage, rosemary oil, and protective styling can all genuinely move the needle, but they work best when you're using the right tool for the right reason. This guide walks you through how to assess what's happening, what the evidence actually supports, and how to build a realistic routine you can stick with.

Who this guide is for

If you've noticed your temples receding, the sides of your hairline feeling sparse, or the hair above your ears gradually thinning, this is for you. It applies to men and women across different ages and hair types, whether you're in your twenties noticing early recession, in your forties dealing with post-pregnancy shed, or older and trying to slow ongoing loss. The sides and temples are a particularly common site of early thinning because they're sensitive to both hormonal changes and mechanical stress from styling. I'll cover the full picture: causes, an at-home assessment, evidence-based treatments, diet and supplements, when to see a dermatologist, and what realistic timelines actually look like.

Diagnosis checklist: is it really thinning on the sides?

Before jumping into treatment, it helps to confirm what you're actually seeing. Run through this checklist to get a clearer picture before your next steps.

• Hairline at the temples has visibly moved back compared to photos from 2–5 years ago
• Hair on the sides feels finer or lighter in texture than it used to
• More scalp is visible at the temples or above the ears in bright lighting or photos
• You notice more hair than usual on your pillow, in the shower drain, or on your brush
• The skin along your hairline margin looks shiny, tight, or slightly reddened
• You wear your hair pulled back frequently or use tight styles (braids, ponytails, extensions)
• You've had a hormonal event in the past 6–12 months: pregnancy, postpartum, thyroid diagnosis, PCOS, or started/stopped a hormonal medication
• Close family members (especially maternal relatives) have noticeable hair loss or recession
• You've been under significant physical or emotional stress, or experienced a major illness or surgery recently
• Your diet has been restricted, or you've lost significant weight in the past year

The more boxes you check, the more likely something addressable is driving the change. Even one or two ticks are worth taking seriously, especially when you catch it early, early-stage thinning is almost always more responsive to treatment than advanced loss.

How to examine your temples and scalp at home

A simple at-home assessment takes about ten minutes and gives you a useful baseline to track progress against. Good lighting and a second mirror (or your phone camera) make a real difference here.

The photo method

Take photos in the same conditions every four to six weeks: same lighting (natural daylight works best), same angle, and same hair state (dry, unstyled). Shoot from the front, both sides at a 45-degree angle, and overhead. Hair loss is notoriously hard to notice in the moment because it's gradual, photos are how you actually see the trend. If you can dig up older pictures from two or three years ago, compare those too.

The pull test

Grasp a small section of about 40–60 hairs near the temple between your thumb and forefinger. Apply gentle, firm tension and pull slowly from root to tip. Losing 1–3 hairs is normal. Losing 6 or more hairs consistently is a positive pull test and suggests active shedding above baseline. Repeat this in two or three spots on the sides. A positive pull test doesn't diagnose the cause, but it tells you shedding is currently elevated and worth investigating.

What to look for on the scalp itself

Use good light and a fine-tooth comb to part the hair along the temporal line and look closely at the scalp. Miniaturized hairs, thin, short, almost translucent ones alongside normal-thickness hairs, are a hallmark of androgenetic alopecia. Redness, flaking, or scaly patches suggest a scalp condition like seborrheic dermatitis or psoriasis that may need treating alongside anything else. Follicular casts (whitish sheaths clinging to the hair shaft just above the scalp) and tenting of the hairline skin are signs associated with traction alopecia. Smooth, completely bald patches with no hair stubble may indicate scarring alopecia, which needs a dermatologist promptly.

Why is the hair on your sides thinning? Common causes

The sides and temples aren't thinning for one universal reason, and getting the cause right is what makes your plan actually work. Here are the most common drivers.

Androgenetic alopecia (pattern hair loss)

This is the most common cause by a wide margin, affecting roughly 50–70% of men and up to around 40% of women over a lifetime. It's driven by sensitivity of follicles to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone derived from testosterone. Follicular sensitivity to DHT, mediated by androgen receptor variants and 5‑alpha‑reductase activity, drives follicle miniaturization; the androgen receptor gene is X‑linked Follicular sensitivity to DHT, mediated by androgen receptor variants and 5‑alpha‑reductase activity, drives follicle miniaturization; the androgen receptor gene is X‑linked.. DHT binds to androgen receptors in genetically susceptible follicles, gradually miniaturizing them, the hairs they produce get progressively finer and shorter until eventually nothing emerges. The androgen receptor gene is X-linked, which is why your maternal grandfather's hairline is often cited as a predictor, though inheritance is more complex than that single rule suggests. In men, temporal recession is typically an early sign. In women, the pattern is more diffuse but temporal and frontal thinning does occur, particularly in women with elevated androgens.

Traction alopecia

Traction alopecia is caused by repeated mechanical tension on the hair follicle from tight hairstyles: high ponytails, tight braids, loc extensions, weaves, or anything that pulls the temporal and frontal hairline consistently. The early sign is a 'fringe sign', a row of short hairs retained along the hairline margin while the hair behind them is sparser. Caught early, it's reversible once you stop the traction. Left untreated for years, chronic tension can cause scarring that's permanent. If you've worn your hair in tight styles regularly for a long time and your recession is mainly at the temples, traction is high on the list.

Hormonal changes

In women especially, hormonal fluctuations are a major driver. Postpartum hair loss (telogen effluvium) typically peaks around three to four months after delivery and can be dramatic at the temples. PCOS raises androgen levels, which can cause pattern-like thinning even in younger women. Perimenopause and menopause lower estrogen, which reduces its protective effect on follicles. Thyroid dysfunction, both underactive and overactive, can trigger diffuse shedding. If you have irregular periods, hirsutism, or symptoms that suggest thyroid issues, blood work is worth doing.

Scalp conditions

Seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, and fungal infections can all create an inflammatory environment that contributes to increased shedding. These conditions don't cause the miniaturization seen in androgenetic alopecia, but chronic inflammation at the scalp can worsen overall hair retention. Flaking, itching, and redness at the temples are clues. These are often very treatable with the right medicated shampoo or topical, so it's worth ruling them out.

Aging

As we age, hair follicles naturally produce finer and slower-growing hairs regardless of androgenetic alopecia. The anagen (active growth) phase shortens, meaning fewer hairs are in active growth at any given time. This age-related change affects the sides and hairline earlier in men due to androgenetic sensitivity, but women notice it too, particularly after menopause.

Medications

Several common medications can cause or worsen hair thinning, including certain blood pressure medications (particularly beta-blockers), retinoids, mood stabilizers, thyroid medications at incorrect doses, and some hormonal contraceptives with high androgenic activity. If your thinning started or accelerated after a medication change, that's a conversation worth having with your prescribing doctor.

Nutritional gaps

Iron deficiency is one of the most commonly overlooked contributors to hair shedding, especially in women with heavy periods or restrictive diets. Low ferritin (stored iron) is often the issue even when hemoglobin looks normal. Deficiencies in zinc, vitamin D, and protein can also impair the hair growth cycle. These are worth testing for rather than guessing, oversupplementing nutrients you're not deficient in doesn't help and can sometimes harm.

Red flags: when to see a dermatologist promptly

Most hair thinning on the sides is not a medical emergency, but some presentations need professional evaluation quickly rather than a wait-and-see approach. Don't delay if you notice any of the following.

• Rapid or sudden hair loss over days or weeks rather than gradual progression over months
• Smooth, completely bald patches — especially circular ones — with no stubble (possible alopecia areata or scarring alopecia)
• Scalp pain, burning, significant tenderness, or itching that doesn't resolve with a gentle anti-dandruff shampoo
• Visible scarring, skin thickening, or loss of follicular openings in the affected area
• Hair loss accompanied by systemic symptoms: unexplained weight change, fatigue, heat or cold intolerance, or irregular periods in women
• Hairline recession in women that's progressing rapidly, especially alongside facial hair growth, acne, or irregular cycles (may indicate elevated androgens requiring investigation)
• No improvement or worsening after 6 months of a consistent, appropriate at-home routine
• Any scalp lesion, sore, or blister that isn't healing

A dermatologist can do a dermoscopy (a magnified look at the scalp), order a scalp biopsy if needed, and run targeted blood work to pin down the cause. Seeing someone sooner is always better when the loss is fast or the pattern looks unusual.

Choosing where to start based on your situation

There's no single 'best' treatment, what you try first should depend on your most likely cause, your sex, your age, and whether you're pregnant or planning to be. Here's how to prioritize.

If you're pregnant or breastfeeding, please discuss any topical treatment with your doctor before starting, most guidelines advise against minoxidil during this period, and certain supplements also warrant caution.

Your step-by-step routine for thicker side hair

What follows is the practical routine I'd walk through if I were building a plan from scratch. It's organized by frequency and layered so you can start with the basics and add steps as you go. Consistency is what makes any of this work, doing most of this adequately for six months beats doing it perfectly for three weeks.

Daily actions

1. Apply topical minoxidil to the temporal/side areas once or twice daily as directed on the product (5% foam or solution is the most evidence-supported strength for both men and women). Part your hair to expose the scalp at the temples, apply directly to the skin, and let it dry before styling. Give this at least 9–12 months before judging effectiveness.
2. Do a 4–5 minute scalp massage focused on the temples and sides. Use your fingertips with moderate pressure in small circular motions. Evidence suggests regular massage can increase hair thickness over several months, likely by improving blood flow and delivering mechanical stimulation to follicles. Do this before or after minoxidil — not simultaneously.
3. Be gentle with your hair. Use a wide-tooth comb on wet hair, avoid brushing aggressively when hair is fragile or damp, and sleep on a satin or silk pillowcase if your hair tangles at night.
4. Eat enough protein. Hair is largely keratin, and inadequate protein intake impairs the growth cycle. Aim to include a quality protein source at each meal: eggs, fish, legumes, meat, or dairy.
5. Stay hydrated and get adequate sleep — both are basic inputs that the hair growth cycle depends on.

Two to three times per week

1. Apply rosemary oil to the scalp sides. Dilute 2–3 drops of rosemary essential oil in a carrier oil (jojoba or coconut oil work well) before applying — never apply undiluted essential oils directly to skin. Randomized trial data shows rosemary oil is comparable to 2% minoxidil for hair count increases over six months, making it a genuinely evidence-supported natural option, though it's not a substitute for 5% minoxidil in active androgenetic alopecia.
2. Use a low-level laser therapy (LLLT) device if you have one (laser cap, comb, or helmet cleared for home use). Trials show modest but real hair-count increases with consistent use 3 times per week, typically at sessions of 8–25 minutes. Results require 4–6 months of consistent use.

Weekly

1. Wash your hair with a gentle, sulfate-free or mild shampoo appropriate for your scalp type. If you have any scalp flaking or oiliness, use a zinc pyrithione or ketoconazole shampoo (like Nizoral) 1–2 times per week — seborrheic dermatitis at the hairline creates an inflammatory environment that doesn't help hair retention.
2. Review your styling choices. Avoid tight ponytails, slicked-back styles, or braids that pull the temporal hairline. If you wear extensions or weaves, take regular breaks and ensure they're not applied with excessive tension.

Every 2–4 weeks (optional add-on)

At-home microneedling with a dermaroller (0.5–1.5 mm depth) over the scalp sides, when combined with topical minoxidil, has shown consistently better results in multiple randomized trials than minoxidil alone. The microneedles are thought to stimulate growth factors and improve minoxidil absorption. If you try this, use a clean, single-use or properly sterilized roller, start at the lower end of depth, and always apply minoxidil after (not before) needling. Space sessions at least two weeks apart. This is an add-on to a solid baseline routine, not a shortcut.

Medical and procedural options worth knowing

If at-home measures aren't sufficient or if androgenetic alopecia is progressing meaningfully, there are clinically supported options that require a prescription or a clinic.

Oral and topical finasteride (for men)

Oral finasteride (1 mg daily) works by blocking 5-alpha-reductase, the enzyme that converts testosterone to DHT. It's one of the two first-line treatments for male androgenetic alopecia in evidence-based guidelines alongside minoxidil. The Evidence‑based (S3) guideline for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia in women and in men – short version recommends topical minoxidil and oral finasteride (in men) as first‑line medical treatments and advises evaluating clinical benefit at about 9–12 months. However, it's generally not recommended for women of childbearing potential due to teratogenicity risk. Topical finasteride spray (0.25% solution) is a newer option that has shown hair regrowth benefits in phase III trials with substantially lower systemic DHT suppression than the oral form, relevant if you're concerned about systemic side effects. Finasteride requires a prescription and is a long-term commitment: stopping it typically results in reversal of benefit within 12 months. The guidelines recommend evaluating clinical benefit at around 9–12 months.

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP)

PRP involves drawing your own blood, concentrating the platelet-rich fraction, and injecting it into the scalp. Multiple randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses confirm that PRP increases hair density significantly compared to placebo by 3–6 months. Typical effective regimens in trials involve three monthly injections, often with maintenance boosters. Results vary partly because PRP preparation isn't standardized across clinics, the platelet concentration and activation method matter. It's done in a dermatologist or trichologist's office and is generally well-tolerated, though not cheap.

Hair transplantation

For significant temporal recession that hasn't responded to medical treatment, hair transplantation, particularly follicular unit extraction (FUE), is the definitive surgical option. FUE is preferred for temporal zones because individual graft placement allows precise angulation that looks natural. Transplanted hairs typically start appearing at 3–4 months, with major improvement by 6–9 months and final maturation by 12–18 months. The key caveat: a transplant doesn't stop ongoing androgenetic alopecia in the surrounding native hair, so medical treatment continues alongside it.

A note on oral minoxidil

Low-dose oral minoxidil is increasingly being prescribed by dermatologists for hair loss and has trial data behind it, but a randomized clinical trial comparing oral minoxidil (5 mg daily) to topical minoxidil (5% twice daily) in men found that oral minoxidil was not superior for frontal scalp improvement at 24 weeks, there was significant benefit at the vertex but not the frontal region. This is worth knowing if your concern is specifically temporal and frontal: topical application to the area you're targeting remains the better-evidenced approach for that zone.

Diet and supplements for thicker side hair

Nutrition matters most when you have an actual deficiency. Supplements aren't a replacement for a varied diet, and taking extras of nutrients you already have enough of doesn't benefit your hair, it just costs money, and in some cases (like selenium or vitamin A) excess actually causes hair loss. For related tips on improving hair thickness across your body, see our guide on how to grow thicker body hair. The smarter approach is to test first, then supplement if needed.

Nutritional red flags to test for

• Ferritin (stored iron): Low ferritin is one of the most common and correctable causes of increased shedding in women. Many labs flag 'normal' at levels still too low for optimal hair growth — ask your doctor about your specific number.
• Serum zinc: Low zinc impairs the hair growth cycle and can cause increased shedding.
• Vitamin D: Widespread deficiency, linked to multiple hair loss conditions including alopecia areata and pattern loss.
• TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone): Rules out hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, both of which cause hair loss.
• Total and free testosterone, DHEAS, and other androgens: Relevant for women with signs of hyperandrogenism (irregular periods, hirsutism, acne).
• Serum protein or albumin: If you're eating a very low-calorie or restrictive diet, protein malnutrition can cause diffuse shedding.

What to eat more of

Focus on a diet rich in complete proteins (fish, poultry, eggs, legumes, dairy), iron-containing foods (red meat, lentils, spinach, with vitamin C to improve absorption from plant sources), zinc-rich foods (pumpkin seeds, shellfish, beef), and vitamin D (fatty fish, fortified foods, or sensible sun exposure). Biotin is often marketed heavily for hair growth, but deficiency is rare in people eating a normal diet and the evidence for supplementing when you're not deficient is weak. Don't spend money on high-dose biotin unless you have a confirmed deficiency or a specific medical reason.

When supplements genuinely help

If blood tests confirm low ferritin, vitamin D, or zinc, supplementing those specific nutrients can reduce shedding and support regrowth over several months. Iron supplementation when ferritin is confirmed low is one of the most clinically validated nutritional interventions for hair loss in women. Correction is slow, expect 3–6 months of consistent supplementation before you see hair changes, even once levels normalize. Please follow guidance from your doctor on which supplements to take and at what amounts, especially for iron, which can cause harm in excess.

Cautions on supplement overuse

• Excess vitamin A (from retinol-based supplements, not beta-carotene) can cause hair loss — ironically, it's a known side effect at high doses
• Selenium toxicity can cause hair loss; many hair supplement blends already include selenium, so doubling up can push you over safe limits
• High-dose biotin can interfere with thyroid and cardiac blood test results — let your doctor know if you take it before any lab work
• Iron supplementation without confirmed deficiency carries real risks including gastrointestinal harm and, over time, iron overload

What about community tips and Reddit advice?

Hair loss communities online, including popular subreddits, are full of genuinely useful shared experience, but it's worth knowing what's evidence-backed versus what's anecdotal. For curated anecdotal routines and community-tested tips, check discussions under the phrase "how to grow thicker hair reddit", use them for ideas but weigh them against evidence and your diagnosis. The tips that align best with research tend to be: consistent minoxidil use, scalp massage, rosemary oil as a complement (not a primary treatment for significant AGA), fixing nutritional deficiencies, and avoiding tight hairstyles. Tips that are more anecdotal include castor oil (no RCT evidence for scalp hair growth specifically), onion juice (limited and low-quality evidence), and hair growth shampoos with impressive marketing but minimal active ingredients. The community is right that patience is everything, most posts that show real results are from people who stuck with a routine for 6–12 months. What the community sometimes underestimates is the importance of diagnosing the actual cause first: if traction or a thyroid issue is driving your loss, minoxidil alone won't fix it.

Sides vs. temples: are they the same problem?

Thinning on the sides and thinning at the temples often overlap and share causes, but they're worth distinguishing. The temples are the corners of the hairline, the first site of recession in male pattern loss and a common site for traction alopecia. Thinning on the sides more broadly can also involve the hair above the ears and the temporal parietal zone. If your concern is specifically the temple corners, the approach covered here applies directly. For step-by-step guidance specifically on how to grow thicker hair in front, see the focused advice in this guide. Growing thicker hair at the temples specifically involves many of the same strategies: minoxidil, massage, and addressing traction are the core of it.

Realistic timelines and how to track progress

This is where I want to be really honest with you, because unrealistic expectations cause people to give up on routines that are actually working. Hair growth is slow. The anagen phase lasts months to years, and changes in follicle health don't translate into visible thickness overnight.

To track progress, take your standardized photos every four to six weeks and compare them at the six-month mark rather than week to week. If you're using minoxidil and haven't noticed any change in density or shedding rate by month nine to twelve, that's worth discussing with a dermatologist rather than just continuing indefinitely. Progress tracking requires patience, but it also keeps you from throwing good time and money at something that isn't working for your specific cause.

Your next steps

Start by going through the diagnosis checklist and doing the at-home assessment. If red flags are present, book a dermatologist appointment before starting any treatment. If the picture looks like early androgenetic alopecia or traction alopecia without red flags, you can begin with the daily routine, minoxidil, scalp massage, nutrition check, while ruling out any correctable nutritional deficiency with basic blood work. Add rosemary oil, LLLT, or microneedling as supporting layers once the foundation is in place. And give it real time. The most common reason hair thinning routines 'don't work' is stopping at the two- or three-month mark, before the follicle cycle has had a chance to respond. Commit to six months, document your progress with photos, and reassess from there.