GROWTH SPURT
We spoke with a board-certified dermatologist and trichologist to get an expert’s guide to the best shampoos for fighting hair loss, thinning and breakage.
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Have you noticed your hair coming out more in the shower? Perhaps it’s not as voluminous as it was in your teens? Whether from aging, stress, lifestyle factors, medication, chemical hair treatments or genetics, hair loss is more common than you may think. According to The Hair Society, 35 million men and 21 million women suffer from hair loss. While hair thinning is common, that doesn’t mean it’s desired. Fortunately, there are many in-clinic and at-home remedies that may help combat hair thinning, including shampoos for hair loss that can help stimulate growth by nourishing the scalp, stimulating circulation, and preventing damage.
There are hundreds of shampoos on the market formulated to promote hair growth and prevent thinning, but not all are created equal. According to the experts, when it comes to looking for the best shampoo for hair loss, it’s all about assessing the ingredients. “Look for ingredients that help stimulate the scalp, like caffeine, peppermint, and rosemary, all of which help promote blood circulation, which helps bring nutrients to the hair follicle for healthier growth,” says Dr. Geeta Yadav, board-certified dermatologist and founder of FACET Dermatology. “I’d also look for gentle exfoliants like lactic acid, which will help prevent scalp buildup that can block healthy hair growth.”
Of course, there are also ingredients to avoid when looking for a hair and scalp-nourishing shampoo. William Gaunitz, FWTS, a certified trichologist and founder of Advanced Trichology, says you should avoid parabens, propylene glycol, sulfates, and powerful chemical antiseptics that will disrupt the scalp microbiome, which can inhibit hair growth. Instead, he suggests looking for a hair growth shampoo containing biotin, saw palmetto, and vitamin B5.
We’ve gathered some of the best shampoos for hair loss based on the expert-approved suggestions below.
Pura D’or
$30
PURA D’OR Anti-Thinning Biotin Shampoo
This Amazon best-selling shampoo is a viable option with its proprietary blend of DHT blockers and ingredients, including tea tree oil, saw palmetto, biotin, and rosemary oil. Amazon reviewers also say it helps with postpartum and menopause-related hair loss.
Amazon
$32
dpHUE ACV Revitalizing Shampoo for Healthy Hair Growth
Apple cider vinegar helps to stimulate hair growth by keeping hair follicles clean and clear and killing bacteria (both of which can stunt hair growth). This ACV-infused shampoo is supercharged with plant stem cells, hyaluronic acid and maca root to reduce shedding and dandruff and enhance shine.
Amazon
$36
Thickening Shampoo for Fine or Thinning Hair
Formulated by hair restoration surgeon Dr. Gary Linkov, this supercharged anti-thinning shampoo clarifies the scalp, deep-cleans the follicles, and boosts circulation to help reduce shedding and breakage. It’s enriched with a blend of scalp-fortifying ingredients, including caffeine, saw palmetto, and pumpkin seed oil, to help promote a fuller mane naturally.
Amazon
$23
REMILIA Rosemary Oil Green Goddess Shampoo
In a recent study, rosemary was shown to help stimulate hair growth as well as over-the-counter minoxidil. This Green Goddess formula contains rosemary oil and caffeine-rich green tea to help volumize tresses and minimize damage. The hydrating shampoo also contains nourishing and softening ingredients like coconut and avocado oil for silky, tangle-free strands.
Dermstore
$50
ISDIN Lambdapil Hair Loss Shampoo
Give your hair a refresh with this hair loss shampoo, which helps nourish, repair, and strengthen your strands after as little as one use. It contains biotin, zinc, and vitamin B to help promote hair growth and scalp health. Plus, it’s safe for those with sensitive scalps and gentle enough to use daily.
Amazon
$8
Marc Anthony Strengthening Biotin Shampoo
As Yadav mentioned, it’s important to find a shampoo that helps remove buildup from the scalp (like the pores on your face, your follicles are prone to getting clogged, too). This frizz-fighting shampoo contains caffeine, ginseng, and vitamin E to keep the scalp clean and hair hydrated and elastic. This is also a great choice for dandruff, flaking or an itchy scalp.
Amazon
$60
MONAT IR Clinical Thickening Shampoo
One way to combat thinning hair is to find a shampoo that increases the density of the fibers. This shampoo contains a blend of omega fatty acids, antioxidants and Capixyl to strengthen, thicken, and re-densify compromised locks. Plus, thanks to a blend of rosemary and mint, your hair will smell amazing all day.
