If you have fine or thinning hair you might feel it is difficult to find a hair style that suits you. A trip to a barber or hairdresser can be a source of distress.

It is important that you can discuss your fine or thinning hair and the style you want with the person cutting it and not feel any embarrassment or distress.

For men, the most sensible and easiest style is a short, clean cut. One of the worst mistakes a guy can make with thinning or fine hair is to grow it long, spike it or jell it. These accentuate the thinning hair and draw attention to it.

And in no circumstances attempt the dreaded 'comb over' by growing your hair at the sides and the back long and combing over the fine or receding areas.

This will almost definitely bring unwanted attention and highlight what you are trying to conceal.

Dyeing the hair lighter will nearly always help by reducing level of contrast between the hair and scalp. Of course, if you have a darker scalp then a darker colour would be better.

There are also a vast range of thickening shampoos and conditioners that add volume to the hair and are less likely to break and damage the already weakened follicle.

It is also advisable not to let fine or thinning hair get too greasy.

For women, chin length cuts are recommended by most stylists. Again, attention and emphasis will be on the features, face and neck, rather than the hair.

As is similar for men, hair that is too long will make the hair appear weaker and thinner than it actually is.. Curling irons and straighteners should be avoided as they can seriously damage hair.

A shortish 'bobb' type cut with the hair brushed behind the ears is of the trendiest current looks and can do wonders to add volume to hair, especially if the hair is layered correctly at the back.

Extensions are an absolute no-no and will add stress to an already weakened hair follicle. As distressing as fine and thinning hair can be there are different styles that can benefit you.