Hair loss is more common than you think and can happen to anyone. According to Dr. Eric Schweiger of Schweiger Dermatology Group in NYC, causes range from “androgenetic, or hormone-related hair loss, stress-related hair loss, also called telogen effluvium, and dandruff. Medications, vitamin deficiencies, thyroid disorders, excess styling, and autoimmune disorders can also cause hair loss and thinning.” But the good news is there are viable solutions, starting with topical growth treatments.
How does hair growth shampoo work?
When it comes to a hair growth shampoo, you have two options: prescriptions or over-the-counter treatments. Prescription shampoos like ketoconazole are “anti-androgenetic,” which means they prevent two hormones associated with triggering hair loss from activating—testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT)—by “targeting hair growth at the site of the follicle and helping to interrupt the hormone cycle locally that causes thinning,” Schweiger explains.
Does shampoo help hair growth?
Cosmetic chemist, Ron Robinson of BeautyStat says that shampoos can help to improve hair growth, but not single-handedly. “Because shampoos are rinsed out shortly after they are applied, the ingredients are not staying on the scalp long enough to make a significant impact on their own.” However, Schweiger points out that there are other benefits to shampoos that can assist with hair growth. in the long run. “Over-the-counter growth shampoos typically contain amino acids and antioxidants to provide the components to rebuild hair as well as reduce damage and inflammation,” Schweiger adds.
What should you look for in a hair growth shampoo?
Krupa Koestline, cosmetic chemist and founder of KKT Consultants notes that when shopping for a hair growth shampoo, some ingredients have proven benefits in hair growth stimulation: zinc, keratin, procyanidin B2, biotin, ginseng, caffeine, peppermint, arginine, amino acids like cysteine and tyrosine, vegetable proteins from wheat or soy, and tri-copper peptides. If you think over-the-counter hair loss shampoos are for you or just want to promote growth and strength, Schwieger also backs these ingredients as effective and cautions against using shampoo with parabens, sulfates, and fragrances, which can irritate hair and reduce moisture.
Additionally, Robinson says that ingredients like salicylic acid that exfoliate the scalp and improve blood flow, and biotin which may nourish the hair follicles, can also be beneficial in a hair growth shampoo.
Can natural ingredients help grow hair?
Board-certified hair loss expert and surgeon, Dr. Wiliam Yates recommends gentle ingredients that don’t strip the hair and preserve the integrity of the hair shaft to help prevent breakage. “My patients report improved hair growth natural ingredients like pumpkin seed extract, yucca root extract, saw palmetto, algae, horsetail, and green tea extract,” says Yates. He also notes that biotin and rosemary oil are also showing promise as natural ingredients in hair products to promote hair health and growth.
What’s the difference between regular shampoo and a hair growth shampoo?
“Hair growth-promoting shampoos are specifically designed with follicle-stimulating actives and antioxidants while maintaining optimal scalp health,” says Koestline. Whereas traditional shampoos are formulated for different hair types and focus more on the hair itself and not the scalp.
And remember, hair growth is a slow process, and everyone is different. Dr. Nava Greenfield of Schweiger Dermatology Group recommends that you try a product out for three to four months before you determine whether it is effective or not. “Take before and after photos since the change may be too gradual to notice,” Greenfield adds.
If you’re ready to give hair growth shampoos a try, we did the vetting for you. Ahead, shop 21 of the best hair growth shampoos available.
1
Honeydew Biotin Shampoo for Hair Growth B-Complex Formula for Hair Loss Removes
This is Amazon’s top seller in hair regrowth shampoos. The natural biotin shampoo boasts four and a half stars and more than 12,000 reviews. Consumers claim the product works like magic, helping to improve hair loss from both genetics and surgery.
2
Blossom & Bloom Ginseng + Biotin Volumizing Shampoo
This 98 percent naturally-derived cleanser contains ginseng and ginger, both of which increase blood flow to the scalp to encourage growth.
3
Advanced Full Density Thickening Shampoo
With 4.5 out of 5 stars on Amazon, reviewers have found something like a magic potion in this shampoo. “I tried this shampoo and the conditioner gel and voila, it was evident the follicles were thickened and my hair felt cleaner,” reads one review. Key ingredients include biotin and zinc which work to strengthen hair.
4
Shea Moisture Strengthen, Grow & Restore Shampoo and Conditioner Set
This shampoo cleanses the scalp without drying it out like other formulas with harsh chemicals can. You’ll get a thorough cleanse without compromising moisture. Plus, the conditioner nourishes hair, leaving a silky smooth feeling behind post-shower.
5
Growth Stimulating & Anti Hair Loss Shampoo
Filled with active ingredients like biotin and keratin, the shampoo aims to promote the body’s abilities for hair growth. The formula stimulates the cells responsible for hair follicle development.
6
Biotin Shampoo and Treatment Conditioner
As the name suggests, this duo is packed with biotin, alongside hydrolyzed keratin, to block DHT, the primary culprit of weak hair. Safe for sensitive scalps, you can expect to see shinier, thicker strands after a month of use.
7
Nioxin System 4 Hair Care Kit
“Nioxin cleanser is good for general hair thinning,” says Schweiger. Plus, nine out of ten people note a thickening of their hair when using the full Nioxin treatment system.
8
Diamond Strong Shampoo
This certified organic shampoo is free of parabens and sulfates. Instead, it’s made with naturally derived ingredients like ginger and cedarwood to promote hair growth.
9
Deep Scalp Hair Therapy and Follicle Stimulation Tonic
Technically a scalp serum, but we’ll let it slide. The formula works to strengthen the hair from the root and avoid breakage. It also targets DHT buildup, which is the primary cause of alopecia.
10
Hair Surge Caffeine Hair Recovery Stimulating Shampoo
The caffeine compounds in this formula work to reduce hair loss by stimulating hair follicles to grow hair.
11
Scalp Stimulating Shampoo
As a preventative option before hair breaks and sheds, try this nutrient-rich cleansing treatment. The formula contains a keratin complex that strengthens hair to avoid breakage or loss due to heat or damaging products.
12
Original Gold Label Anti-Hair Thinning Shampoo
Fight hair thinning the natural way. Biotin, pumpkin seed, and black cumin work to increase the volume of your hair and strengthen weak strands. The formula is also gentle enough for everyday use.
13
Daily Thickening Shampoo
Made with pumpkin seed oil, yucca root extract, and biotin, this Daily Thickening Shampoo is formulated to plump each hair strand and gently cleanse the scalp by removing residue and DHT build-up for healthier, fuller-looking hair.
14
Honeydew Hair Loss Shampoo
If shedding is your primary problem, the natural ingredients in this biotin shampoo are here to help. A keratin complex strengthens weak hair while coconut oil hydrates your scalp skin to heal itchiness and flaking that might be causing dandruff.
15
Resistance Length Strengthening Shampoo
Key ingredients creatine and taurine work to strengthen the fibers of the hair and moisturize your scalp at the same time. You’re getting two key hair loss fighters in one potent shampoo.
16
NaturalTech Nourishing Shampoo
Hair growth is all about the scalp. Davines’s shampoo replenishes moisture in the area and encourages the growth of new hair follicles. The brand also has a gentle conditioner that is recommended to use after you shampoo.
17
Argan Stem Cell Age Defying Shampoo
Argan, apple, and grape stem cells promote growth by increasing the cellular turnover of the scalp and nourishing the hair shaft.
18
Carol’s Daughter Goddess Fortifying Shampoo
Strong hair makes for long hair. Invest in a fortifying shampoo, like this one from Carol’s Daughter, to strengthen strands and nourish heat-damaged hair. Ideal for 4c hair types, the cleanser removes dirt and product build-up without stripping hair of its natural oils.
19
Thick & Full Biotin & Collagen Shampoo
Found in your local drugstore aisle, OGX’s Thick and Full Biotin and Collagen shampoo is here to rebuild and repair the structure of your follicles. Plus, it’s sulfate-free so it won’t cause any further damage to already brittle strands.
20
Renewing Shampoo
Ideal for natural hair textures, this hair cleanser won’t strip your delicate strands of nutrients but rather replenish dry hair with a blend of stimulating peppermint oil and moisturizing pro-vitamin B5. Follow shampooing with the brand’s revival treatment.
21
Nizoral AD AntiDandruff Shampoo, Fresh
Targeted for dandruff, this highly-reviewed 4.5 out of 5 stars with 10,340 reviews) shampoo works to eliminate the dead cells and buildup on your scalp that cause dandruff and additional damage. Use this shampoo twice a week, in between your regular shampoo and conditioner routine, for optimal results.
Chloe Hall
Beauty Director Chloe Hall oversees all beauty coverage at ELLE.com.
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