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The 26 Best Shampoos for Thinning Hair to Give You Your Fullest-Looking Locks Yet, Vetted by Experts

Lather up with these expert-approved formulas

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Dasha Burobina for PureWow

Fact: Hair loss happens to nearly everyone. Whether it’s due to postpartum hormonal changes, stress, medication or simply aging, seeing your hair thin or fall out can be super alarming. If you're noticing more hair than usual washing down the drain or accumulating on your brush, however, don’t panic. One of the simplest ways to treat your tresses is with the best shampoo for thinning hair.

To find out which shampoos are actually worth investing in, we reached out to a few hair experts to help you get to the bottom of why your hair is becoming finer—and what you can do about it. We also looked at more than 50 different shampoos for thinning hair, culling our list down to 26 of the very best products. For some, it will be Pura D'Or's top-rated anti-thinning shampoo ($28), which boasts an impressive 25,000+ Amazon reviews. For others, it will be worth investing in the splurge of the Vegamour Gro Kit (was $274, now $246). Read on to find out which hair cleanser is right for you.

The Top 10 Shampoos for Thinning Hair at a Glance

1

Doctor-Recommended

Nioxin Cleanser Shampoo

read more

2

Best Shampoo for Color-Treated Hair

Bosley BosRevive Shampoo

read more

3

Best Amazon Shampoo for Thinning Hair

Pura D'Or Anti-Thinning Biotin Shampoo

read more

4

Best-Smelling Shampoo

Rahua Voluminous Shampoo

read more

5

Best Shampoo for Damaged Hair

Augustinus Bader The Shampoo

read more

Show More

Meet the Experts

  • Dr. Mona Gohara, M.D., is a board-certified dermatologist in Connecticut who holds a degree from the Medical College of Ohio and trained at Yale New Haven Hopsital. She serves on the board of directors for the Women's Dermatologic Society and is an associate clinical professor at Yale.
  • Dr. Rae Lynne Kinler, M.D., is a hair transplant surgeon of nine years. She has been the medical director at Ziering Medical in Greenwich, Conn., since November 2020. Dr. Kinler received her medical degree from the American University of the Caribbean in Saint Maarten, N.A., and completed her fellowship in hair restoration surgery under Dr. Craig Ziering.
  • Dr. Rebecca Marcus, M.D., is a board-certified dermatologist in Dallas and the founder of Maei MD. With a medical degree from New York Medical, Dr. Marcus has 20 years of experience in medical, surgical and cosmetic dermatology.
  • Debby Vellozzi has been the head of product development at Virtue Labs for more than ten years. She focuses on consumer testing, product conceptualization and management. She has more than 20 years of experience in product development, with prior product development roles at companies such as Frederic Fekkai and Strivectin.
  • Philip "B." Berkovitz is a hairstylist and the founder of Philip B Haircare. He has specialized in scalp care and solutions since 1991.

What Should I Look for in Shampoo for Thinning Hair?

When shopping for a shampoo for thinning hair, you'll want to take a closer look at the label. While Kinler points out that products containing minoxidil or other growth factors will be the "most effective with slowing down hair shedding or reversing hair loss," this FDA-approved medical ingredient is largely seen in hair growth treatments as opposed to shampoos. "Some of these products are available over the counter while others require a prescription," she says.

Luckily, there are other key shampoo ingredients that have shown promise for hair growth, several of which we've outlined for you below.

  • Biotin has shown promise for hair growth improvement in supplemental form according to a 2017 study in Skin Appendage Disorders.
  • In a 2018 study published in Biotechnology Reports, keratin K31 was shown to increase hair's diameter by up to 49 percent when applied onto strands.
  • Red ginseng has growth-stimulating properties, according to a 2018 study published in the International Journal of Molecular Science
  • Byrdie reports that black cumin seed oil may both promote hair growth and reduce hairfall.
  • Vitamin E was shown to improve hair growth in supplemental form in a 2010 study by Tropical Life Sciences Research.
  • Peppermint oil was shown in a 2014 study published in Toxicology Research to be more effective than 3 percent minoxidil.
  • Caffeine was found in a 2007 study to block sex hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in males, which can damage hair follicles, and to promote hair growth in females.
  • Healthline reports that saw palmetto may help to balance DHT, in turn promoting hair growth.
  • A 2022 study published in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology found that rice bran mineral extract increased expression of growth factors when applied topically.
  • Grapeseed oil has also been linked to combatting hair loss, though more research is needed.
  • Watercress extract was shown in a 2022 study published in the International Journey of Cosmetic Science to increase hair thickness and density in its subjects.
  • The South African Pharmaceutical and Cosmetic Review published a 2011 article discussing the merits of maca root extract for hair growth.
  • Lavender showed a "marked hair growth-promoting effect" in a 2013 study published in Toxicology Research.

Beyond seeking out effective active ingredients, Dr. Marcus suggests looking for shampoos that aren't super heavy. "[In general] shampoos for thin hair should be light, so as not to weigh the hair down," she says. How We Chose the Best Shampoo for Thinning Hair

When looking for the best shampoo for thinning hair, we took into account the advice from the experts we consulted and looked for lightweight shampoos that won't weigh down hair, as well as those that exfoliate the scalp of buildup and debris. We also paid close attention to which shampoos included proven ingredients for hair growth.

Below, find the 26 best shampoos for thinning hair based on our in-depth research.

Want to know which buzzy products are *really* worth buying? Sign up for our shopping newsletter to uncover our favorite finds.

Doctor-Recommended

1. Nioxin Cleanser Shampoo

What We Like

  • doctor-recommended
  • custom hydration

What We Don't Like

  • may be harsh on sensitive skin
  • contains sodium laureth sulfate

Nioxin

As mentioned above, Dr. Gohara recommends this cleanser for its scalp-purifying salicylic acid. We also like that you can choose the correct formula for your level of thinning and hair type. While this cleanser will work best for those with normal-to-light thinning and normal hair, those with more progressed thinning will want to use system 2. If you have dry hair and normal-to-light thinning, you should use system 3, while system 4 is best for those with dry hair and more progressed thinning. Last but not least, there's system 5 for those with dry and damaged hair and normal-to-light thinning and system 6 for dry, damaged hair types with progressed thinning.

For best results, you should massage it into your scalp for a minute or two, then rinse it clean. (Tip: Pair this shampoo with the brand's scalp relief system kit, $46, for even more fullness and a soothed scalp.)

Fast Facts

  • Active ingredient: salicylic acid
  • Best for: normal to light thinning
  • Promising review: "I have fine and bleached hair, and this gives me volume and shine. Also, [my] hair [stopped] falling [out].”

Best Shampoo for Color-Treated Hair

2. Bosley BosRevive Shampoo

Pros

  • reviewers report new hair growth
  • color-safe

Cons

  • may be drying

Bosley

Bosley may very well be the OG hair growth clinic, and now all of the brand's accumulated years of knowledge are available in a line of shampoos and conditioners designed just to help with thinning hair. The BosRevive nourishing shampoo, for instance, includes pumpkin seed extract (pumpkin seed oil has been shown to increase hair growth in mice), saw palmetto to block DHT and rosemary extract to help reduce scalp inflammation and increase circulation. Users love that it doesn’t have a strong fragrance and that it’s safe for color-treated hair. 

Fast Facts

  • Active hair growth ingredients: pumpkin seed extract, saw palmetto, rosemary extract
  • Best for: color-treated hair 
  • Promising review: “This product 100 percent grows hair because I have new growth all over my temples and crown area. I love it!!”

Best Amazon Shampoo for Thinning Hair

3. Pura D'Or Anti-Thinning Biotin Shampoo

Pros

  • multiple study-proven ingredients
  • cruelty-free
  • vegan

Cons

  • may leave hair feeling dry
  • unpleasant odor

Pura D'Or

If you want results, Pura d'Or claims to deliver them: The company conducted a clinical study over eight weeks that reportedly proved its product resulted in less hair shedding. It relies on biotin as its main volumizing ingredient, but also includes black cumin seed oil, which may potentially aid in promoting hair growth and reducing hairfall, as well as vitamin E and saw palmetto, which may aid in growth and hormone balancing. All in all, it's jam-packed with more than 17 herbal ingredients that promise to nourish, cleanse and protect the scalp after every wash.

To use it, lather up with it and leave it on your hair for a good two minutes before rinsing it out.

Fast Facts

  • Active hair growth ingredients: biotin, vitamin E oil, black cumin seed oil, saw palmetto
  • Best for: damaged and/or color-treated hair
  • Promising review: “This shampoo helped regrow my postmenopausal (plus recent hysterectomy) thinning hair.”

Best-Smelling Shampoo

4. Rahua Voluminous Shampoo

Pros

  • sulfate- and paraben-free
  • all-natural ingredients
  • "delicious" smell

Cons

  • doesn’t have a lot of lather

Rahua

Long used to achieve glossy hair in the Amazon rainforest, rahua oil (extracted from nuts) is the basis for this plant-based shampoo. According to the brand's CEO, Anna Ayers, who spoke to Forbes, the rahua nut "is known to possess naturally fortifying and strengthening benefits that nourish hair, promote the hair follicle and scalp health and keep hair color vibrant by pushing color pigmentation deep into the hair shaft.” It also features lavender, which had a "marked hair growth-promoting effect" in a 2013 study, anti-inflammatory rosemary, UV-blocking green tea and lemongrass, which the brand claims adds bounce. With a mild citrus and lemongrass scent, this shampoo is also ideal for those looking for a clean option with a great fragrance.

Fast Facts

  • Active hair growth ingredients: rahua oil, lavender, rosemary
  • Best for: all hair types 
  • Promising review: “Love this shampoo, smells delicious and adds immense volume for me.”

Best Shampoo for Damaged Hair

5. Augustinus Bader The Shampoo

Pros

  • treats multiple hair concerns
  • vegan

Cons

  • pricey

Augustinus Bader

If you’re dealing with several hair issues at a time, such as hair loss, dullness and damage from over-styling and coloring, this Augustinus Bader shampoo may be just what you need. Think of it as the jack-of-all-trades of hair products. While the brand's legendary Trigger Factor Complex, or TCF8 (a proprietary blend of natural amino acids, high-grade vitamins and peptides) reportedly provides vital nutrients to the scalp, other ingredients, like watercress extract, have been proven to improve hair density and thickness. Meanwhile, maca root extract is included to improve thickness, while vitamin B5 is added to reportedly soothe.

A 12-week study conducted by Augustinus Bader reportedly resulted in 98 percent of its 35 male and female participants, all of whom had varying hair types, reporting that their hair felt thicker and appeared fuller.

Fast Facts

  • Active hair growth ingredients: watercress and maca root extracts, TFC8
  • Best for: thin, dull and weak hair
  • Promising review: "I have fine and bleached hair, and this gives me volume and shine. Also, [my] hair [stopped] falling [out].”

Best Hair System

6. Vegamour Gro Complete Kit

Pros

  • complete hair growth system
  • vegan
  • cruelty-free

Cons

  • pricey

Vegamour

Anti-thinning shampoos can sometimes be paired with similarly formulated conditioners and other products to boost overall results. This comprehensive kit from Vegamour comes complete with a foam, a hair serum, a detoxifying scalp serum, a dry shampoo, biotin gummies and a conditioner that are all meant to aid its shampoo.

While it’s definitely a splurge, Gro touts its proprietary “Karmatin”—a vegan version of hair’s own vital protein, keratin—as its key hair-saving ingredient, while its wild-harvested marula oil, organic murumuru butter and ximenia oil aim to condition, hydrate and protect locks without clogging pores. It also has red clover, which has shown promise as a DHT-blocker

According to studies conducted by the brand on 40 subjects over a four-month period, the formula increased the appearance of hair density by up to 52 percent. A separate study by the company of 20 subjects over the same time period also saw a 76 percent reduction in hair shedding.

Fast Facts

  • Active hair growth ingredients: karmatin, biotin, red clover
  • Best for: all hair types
  • Promising review: “Vegamour has given me back my confidence and my hair! Three months in and I'll keep going!”

Best Shampoo for Fine Hair

7. Virtue Flourish Shampoo

Pros

  • active ingredient may increase hair's diameter
  • gentle fragrance

Cons

  • may dry out hair with extended use

Virtue

This shampoo's core ingredients are not only formulated to nourish your hair and clear buildup from your scalp, the keratins are likely to make hair look fuller—and nurture it. "As new, fragile hair emerges, this shampoo ensures that it’s nurtured and cared for, so that it grows stronger and thicker," Vellozzi claims.

Virtue also reports that in an independent six-month study of 35 female participants who used the shampoo in combination with the brand's Flourish conditioner (from $20) and Flourish density booster (from $28), 91 percent reported a decrease in hair fallout, while 94 percent said they had more volume.

Fast Facts

  • Active hair growth ingredient: alpha keratin 60ku clinical protein
  • Best for: straight, wavy, curly and coily fine to medium-fine hair
  • Promising review: “Those wispy short hairs I’m always battling against frizz have actually had a chance to grow! Goodbye halo frizz and hello fuller looking and feeling hair!”

Best Thickening Shampoo

8. Biolage Full Density Shampoo

Pros

  • cruelty-free
  • volumizing

Cons

  • some reviewers prefer the old formula
  • contains sodium laureth sulfate

Biolage

Given that thickening is in this cruelty-free shampoo's name, it stands to reason that you should expect voluminous results, and that's exactly what you'll get from it, according to reviewers. Its unique blend includes hair growth star biotin, zinc and gluco-omega, all of which aim to get the anti-thinning job done. According to the brand, this formula also reportedly clears clogged follicles and removes buildup on your scalp, which Marcus and Gohara noted can weigh strands down, leaving them looking finer than they already are.

Fast Facts

  • Active hair growth ingredients: biotin, zinc, gluco-omega
  • Best for: thin hair 
  • Promising review: “This shampoo (and conditioner) helps my hair look thicker and healthier.”

Best Organic Shampoo

9. Andalou Naturals Argan Stem Cell Shampoo

Pros

  • affordable
  • herbal scent

Cons

  • some reviewers find it dries out their hair

Andalou Naturals

This shampoo's secret lies in its vitamin E, which is a proven driver of hair growth. It's also full of organically-sourced argan oil, which has been shown to not only maintain moisture, but to improve scalp health, according to Healthline (both good things when attempting to stave off hair loss). It also boasts hair-healthy grapeseed oil and nourishing aloe vera to give your locks a shiny finish. And as for that herbaceous scent? Shoppers say it's a refreshing treat for the senses, to say the least.

Fast Facts

  • Active hair growth ingredients: vitamin E, grapeseed oil
  • Best for: dull, weak or thinning hair
  • Promising review: “I have age-thinning hair. I’m in shock! My hair not only feels thicker, but my husband asked me what I was doing differently.”

Best Shampoo for Natural Hair

10. SheaMoisture Strengthen and Restore Shampoo

Pros

  • caters to natural hair
  • cruelty-free
  • lathers well

Cons

  • may be too heavy for fine hair
  • divisive smell

SheaMoisture

Curly and coily gals can rejoice knowing there's a shampoo for their thinning natural hair. While this brand doesn't claim its shampoo will grow hair quicker, the formula, which features castor oil, shine-boosting apple cider vinegar and strengthening shea butter, has omegas galore, which the company claims will reduce breakage. It's also full of rice protein, which has shown promise in studies for hair growth. Add growth-proven peppermint oil to the mix, and your scalp will get a tingling sensation that leaves your hair feeling refreshed, shiny and soft. 

It may be best to use this one in moderation, however, as some have noted that the castor oil and protein is heavy on their scalp, leaving behind potentially damaging buildup. Shoppers are also divided on the vanilla-like scent, which some say is heaven-sent and others find off-putting.

Fast Facts

  • Active hair growth ingredients: peppermint oil, rice protein
  • Best for: natural or damaged hair
  • Promising review: “I have course hair (Black). I use to always have breakage and parts of my hair with (bald spots) no matter all the tricks and trades. I usually shaved my head and called it a day. I started to grow my hair and using this and there is zero breakage!”

Best Gentle Shampoo

11. Pure Biology RevivaHair Shampoo

Pros

  • multiple study-proven ingredients
  • lightweight

Cons

  • may take a few weeks to see effects

Pure Biology

On the hunt for a gentle blend in a simple bottle? In addition to the biotin, keratin and plant-derived saw palmetto (an ingredient that can help balance the sex hormone DHT, which is often linked to hair loss), this anti-thinning formula is loaded with soothing coconut oil, vitamin E and nourishing green tea. Better yet, Amazon reviewers say it's lightweight enough for everyday use.

Fast Facts

  • Active hair growth ingredients: biotin, keratin, saw palmetto
  • Best for: all hair types
  • Promising review: “Thinning spots have put out new growth. Pretty impressive results!”

Best Budget Shampoo

12. OGX Thick and Full Biotin and Collagen Shampoo

Pros

  • budget-friendly
  • sulfate-free

Cons

  • not cruelty-free
  • full ingredients not listed

Ogx

Believe it or not, you can promote hair growth without having to break the bank. This sulfate-free shampoo, which rings in at less than $10, has more than 3,500 glowing reviews from Amazon shoppers. It uses both biotin (which, as we mentioned above, has shown promise for hair growth in supplemental form) and collagen. (Psst: Healthline says this protein helps with hair strength.)

Fast Facts

  • Active hair growth ingredients: vitamin B7, biotin and collagen
  • Best For: flat hair
  • Promising review: “Nothing I [used gave] my fine, limp, straight hair body without it looking damaged until I purchased this shampoo. Bar none…the absolute best!”

Best Shampoo for Dry Scalp

13. Paul Mitchell Scalp Care Regeniplex Shampoo

Pros

  • soothes flaky scalps
  • vegan
  • cruelty-free

Cons

  • doesn't lather well

Paul Mitchell

This vegan and cruelty-free salon-grade option includes turmeric and tea tree oil. Turmeric may not stimulate hair growth directly, but it has shown promise in improving skin conditions, such as scalp psoriasis, which can result in a scaly, itchy scalp and is closely associated with hair loss. There's also ginseng and kakadu plum to stimulate the scalp, per Paul Mitchell, and to increase the density of each strand, reducing breakage so your hair feels thicker as it grows.

Fast Facts

  • Active hair growth ingredients: turmeric, ginseng
  • Best for: dry, itchy scalp conditions
  • Promising review: “My hair has been thinning and I had a very visible bare spot in my hair. I can say that this product works wonders and my hair is now thicker, fuller and has re-grown. I no longer have that bare spot after only three weeks of use!”

Best Sulfate-Free Shampoo

14. Jason Thin-to-Thick Shampoo

Pros

  • doesn't weigh down hair
  • salicylic acid removes scalp buildup
  • sulfate-free

Cons

  • bottle can leak during shipment

Jason

Sometimes, less is more. In the case of Jason's Thick-to-Thin shampoo, for instance, the fewer the chemicals in your shampoo, the better the results. It employs a simple blend of biotin and panthenol (which comes from the B5 vitamin) to plump up tresses. It also has Dr. Gohara's recommended ingredient of salicylic acid. According to the brand, there are no drying sulfates to be found within, and plenty of reviewers have vouched for this gentle, lightweight formula, which they say strengthens strands without weighing hair down.

Fast Facts

  • Active hair growth ingredients: biotin, salicylic acid, panthenol
  • Best for: fine hair
  • Promising review: “Jason's shampoo simply makes [my hair] look fuller, as if I had more strands.”

Best Plant-Based Shampoo

15. Aveda Invati Advanced Shampoo

Pros

  • incredible scent
  • cruelty-free
  • mostly natural ingredients
  • custom cleaning levels

Cons

  • can be too gentle on grease
  • results may take up to 12 weeks

Aveda

This plant-based formula has exfoliating, buildup-reducing salicylic acid for the scalp in addition to red ginseng to combat thinning hair. It's cruelty- and sulfate-free, which means it may not be the best choice for greasy-haired girls, but the brand's signature scent—a divine blend of lavender, vanilla and rosemary—adds a nice touch. Like the Nioxin, there are different cleansing formulas of light (for fine hair with a normal to oily scalp) and rich (medium to thick hair with a normal to dry scalp) hair types. The company recommends using it for up to 12 weeks to see the best results.

Fast Facts

  • Active hair growth ingredients: red ginseng, salicylic acid
  • Best for: fine, dry hair
  • Promising review: “I started using the Invati shampoo and within two to three washings, my hair stopped shedding and I now barely lose any hair at all. Definitely far under the 100 hairs a day that's normal. I also see a ton of baby hairs growing all over my head.”

Best Vegan Shampoo

16. Living Proof Full Shampoo

Pros

  • volumizing
  • vegan
  • cruelty-free
  • color-safe

Cons

  • some reviewers find it drying and prefer the old formula

Living Proof

You know the saying fake it 'til you make it. This vegan shampoo may not contain ingredients that will make your locks grow, but it will make your strands look up to two times fuller than normal courtesy of the thickening wheat protein moisturizers—this according to a brand study of the product against untreated hair. It's also incredibly lightweight (because the last thing anyone with thinning hair needs is a shampoo weighing down their already-limp locks). Formulated to leave your scalp feeling refreshed thanks to the citric acid exfoliant found inside, it's a great option for people with chemically-treated or bleached hair, as the gentle, sulfate-free formula protects your color and won't be stripping.

Fast Facts

  • Active ingredients: citric acid, wheat protein
  • Best for: fine, limp hair
  • Promising review: “This is the only thickening product that ever really world for my baby-fine, limp hair.”

Best Shampoo for Mature Hair

17. Alterna Caviar Clinical Densifying Shampoo

Pros

  • good for mature hair
  • extra nourishing

Cons

  • not cruelty-free
  • some reviewers find it doesn't lather well

Alterna

True to its name, the core ingredient in this shampoo is caviar, which Byrdie reports provides the extra nourishment that mature hair needs, but it also has Indian gooseberry. Both are rich in fatty acids, which can add (and help retain) moisture, shine and elasticity. The added red clover, meanwhile, is said to be chock-full of vitamins and to have shown promise as a DHT-blocker. Together, buyers say they make for a lush lather that will leave you feeling like royalty every time wash day rolls around.

Fast Facts

  • Active hair growth ingredients: red clover
  • Best for: straight, wavy, curly and coily
  • Promising review: “The search is finally over! This product actually does what it says it will. My hair looks amazing.”

Best Shampoo for Soft Hair

18. Verb Volume Shampoo

Pros

  • volumizing
  • gentle on color
  • protects against fading
  • energizing scent

Cons

  • may irritate sensitive skin

Verb

With thinning hair comes a lack of shape. Rather than kiss your bounce goodbye, you might try this shampoo, which uses keratin and the aforementioned vitamin B5 to bring your broken-down strands back to life (zhuzhed-up tresses, here we come) and leave them nice and soft. It even has sunflower seed extract to protect color from fading. What's more, the hint of grapefruit and oatmeal will leave things smelling fresh-but-wholesome, and not overpowering, with softness as an added bonus.

Fast Facts

  • Active hair growth ingredients: keratin, pro-vitamin B5
  • Best for: thin or flat hair
  • Promising review: “It truly adds volume and softness, but also was gentle on my hair color.”

Best Volumizing Shampoo

19. Briogeo Blossom and Bloom Shampoo

Pros

  • sulfate-free
  • vegan
  • thickening

Cons

  • may leave residue

Briogeo

This extra-clarifying blend was formulated to thoroughly clean your oily scalp while simultaneously enhancing your thin strands with biotin and ginseng. It's also armed with maltodextrin, a natural sugar starch that can temporarily thicken and separate strands for what the company claims will be "added volume without stickiness." It should be noted that it is made without sulfates, however, which some extra-greasy scalps may prefer in order to truly eradicate residue.

Fast Facts

  • Active hair growth ingredients: biotin, ginseng, vitamin B5
  • Best for: fine, thin, limp hair
  • Promising review: “Within three months my hair is thicker, longer and so much healthier and barely sheds.”

Best Hair Growth Shampoo

20. Bumble and Bumble Thickening Shampoo

Pros

  • smoothes straight hair
  • vegan

Cons

  • not fully color-safe
  • can be drying
  • contains sodium laureth sulfate

Bumble and Bumble

Panthenol, which is the star of the show in this shampoo, was shown to reduce cell death and stalling in human hair cell follicles in a 2021 study. What's more, it stimulated an elongated anagen phase of hair growth. If you're scratching your head and going, "Um, translation?" Verywell Health explains that this is all just a very scientific way of saying that it worked to amp up the hair growth stage in which your strands are "actively generated." According to reviewers, just a dollop of this shampoo will turn your hair into a soft, hydrated masterpiece thanks to ingredients like aloe vera while also thickening your locks with every wash.

Fast Facts

  • Active hair growth ingredient: panthenol 
  • Best for: fine and medium straight and wavy hair
  • Promising review: “My hair is starting to get a little thin as I get older. To my surprise, this actually does work to make it feel fuller!”

Best for Women

21. ThickTails Stimulating Shampoo

Pros

  • gentle on grays
  • multiple study-proven ingredients
  • targeted toward women

Cons

  • bottle may leak during shipping
  • contains sodium laureth sulfate

ThickTails

In a world full of hair loss products targeted towards men, it’s refreshing to know that this particular shampoo was created with ladies in mind. It offers a one-two punch of hair growth-inducing biotin and DHT-blocking caffeine and saw palmetto to balance out any excess production that may naturally occur in some women, including those who may be going through menopause. Plus, it's safe to use on color-treated hair and is especially gentle on graying strands.

Fast Facts

  • Active hair growth ingredients: biotin, caffeine, saw palmetto
  • Best for: graying hair
  • Promising review: “Since using this hair shampoo and conditioner, the hairline at my temples has filled in."

Best Shampoo for Shine

22. Honeydew Folimax Biotin Shampoo

Pros

  • budget-friendly
  • scented with essential oil

Cons

  • may not notice improvement right away

Honeydew

Don’t let the generic-looking bottle fool you: Honeydew’s shampoo has 700-plus rave reviews from Amazon shoppers and is reported to perform just as well (if not better than) its pricier competitors. With a fortifying formula that includes the ever-popular biotin, plus zinc, calming rosemary oil, shine-inducing jojoba and coconut oils and scalp-clarifying tea tree oil, it will leave your hair feeling clean, sleek and amplified.

Fast Facts

  • Active hair growth ingredients: biotin, zinc, rosemary oil
  • Best for: all hair types
  • Promising review: “I love how it has helped my hair grow and look and feel so soft and full. I love it, worth every penny.”

Best Shampoo for Dandruff

23. Philip B. Peppermint Avocado Shampoo

Pros

  • helps curb dandruff
  • antimicrobial

Cons

  • cap may leak when traveling
  • contains sodium laureth sulfate

Philip B.

This gentle formula, which includes peppermint oil and revitalizing avocado, is largely praised for its ability to cut down on dry, flaky scalps—which makes perfect sense, considering that peppermint is both antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory. As we've learned, this in turn leads to healthier locks overall. "[This shampoo] also allows for moisture and other treatments to penetrate, thereby keeping hair strong and healthy with lots of body," explains Philip B. It is recommended to apply the product to your scalp, massage it in with your fingers or a scalp massager and leave it on for three minutes before rinsing for best results.

Fast Facts

  • Active hair growth ingredients: peppermint oil
  • Best for: dry, flaky hair
  • Promising review: “This shampoo controls my flaky scalp better than any I have ever used—including prescription shampoos.”

Best PH-Balancing Shampoo

24. Nutrafol Root Purifier Shampoo

Pros

  • physician-formulated
  • safe for color-treated hair

Cons

  • can be drying

Nutrafol

Healthy hair starts at the scalp, and if you have an overly oily scalp, chances are, yours has a pH balance that's out of whack. Nutrafol’s formula works to correct this, giving you a deep clean while balancing sebum levels, all without stripping your scalp of its essential oils. This physician-developed shampoo also works to nourish your existing locks with its antioxidant-rich Australian wildberries, strengthening vegan proteins and prebiotics to keep your scalp’s microbiome healthy and thriving—which, as we all now know, is key for growth and preventing loss.

According to Nutrafol, a two-week brand study resulted in 100 percent of participants reporting sebum reduction. (Read: Their locks were far less oily.)

Fast Facts

  • Active ingredient: Australian wildberries
  • Best for: those with excess oil
  • Promising review: “Leaves my scalp feeling very clean and not stripped of oils like other shampoos.”

Best Strengthening Shampoo

25. Mielle Rosemary Mint Strengthening Shampoo

Pros

  • multiple study-proven ingredients
  • long-lasting mint scent
  • women-owned

Cons

  • may leak during shipping

Mielle

This biotin-infused mint shampoo works threefold. First, it hits your scalp with its rosemary leaf oil, which experts have compared to 2.5 percent minoxidil. It's believed to promote circulation in the scalp, thus leading to cell turnover and growth. The peppermint oil, meanwhile, as mentioned above, is not only potentially effective for hair growth, but naturally antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory, helping to keep your scalp heath in check. Last but not least, there's biotin, which has also been linked to hair growth. Per reviewers, the rich texture makes a regular shampooing feel like a luxurious treatment and will leave you with a shiny and soft rinse that doesn’t feel stripped.

Fast Facts

  • Active hair growth ingredient: biotin, peppermint and rosemary oils
  • Best for: hair types 3A to 4C
  • Promising Review: “It has improved my hair tremendously!! My hair looks healthier, it's more shiny, and I believe I am seeing some new hair growth.”

Best Shampoo with UV Protection

26. R+Co Dallas Shampoo

Pros

  • UV-protectant
  • safe for color-treated hair
  • makes hair soft

Cons

  • may not add enough volume

R+Co

Biotin is once again the star of the show in R+Co’s Dallas shampoo, aiming to up hair density and bring volume back to flat and lifeless hair. Better yet, it's got an added boost from DHT-balancing saw palmetto. Fans of this formula love how soft it makes their hair, thanks to bonus nourishing ingredients, like vitamin-packed berry extract and healthful coconut oil. It also reportedly helps keep hair clean for longer and gives some extra lift at the root. As if all of that wasn't exciting enough, it’s color-safe and heat and UV protective to boot.

Fast Facts

  • Active hair growth ingredients: biotin, saw palmetto
  • Best for: fine, thin hair
  • Promising review: “Best shampoo for my fine, thinning hair. I've seen the most growth ever since using this shampoo [and] conditioner.”

What Causes Hair to Thin?

From a change in diet to an increase in stress, there are seemingly hundreds of reasons that hair thinning can occur. In fact, it's actually far more common than you might think. "Hair loss is really a silent epidemic [for women]," Vellozzi tells PureWow. "40 percent of women will experience it by the time they’re 40 and the number increases to 50 percent by the age of 50."

According to Vellozzi, hereditary hair loss, which is a natural condition influenced by our genetics, and hormonal hair loss, which occurs when estrogen and progesterone levels fall, increasing androgens, or male hormones, are the two most common culprits, but she notes that the health of our hair goes hand-in-hand with the health of our bodies. "Sleep, nutrition and stress management can play a role in the way our hair and skin age," she says. "When the body is experiencing extreme stress—either mental or physical—the health of the hair often follows."

Other factors, specifically lifestyle habits, can cause thinning, too. Kinler points out that chemical treatments (color, perm or relaxers), harsh styling products (extreme-hold hairspray and gels) and tight hairstyles can also be behind hair loss. "Whether you’re wearing braids, locks, up-dos or pulling your hair up in a ponytail for extended periods of time, it can permanently damage your follicles, causing hair loss and thinning over time. This type of hair loss is commonly referred to as traction alopecia," adds Kinler.

What's more, improper scalp care can lead to loss. "Damaged, irritated or inflamed follicles on the scalp can weaken and thin hair," cautions Dr. Gohara.

How Do I Treat Thinning Hair?

If you're at the beginning stages of hair loss, you can consult with your dermatologist about medical options. "Fortunately, hair thinning can sometimes be reversed, depending on the cause. If you are shedding more than 150 hairs per day, it’s time to consult with a hair loss expert," says Kinler. She points out there are growth factor treatments, laser therapy, supplements and even hair transplants that can focus on specific needs.

If you prefer to start at home, however, you should begin with some solid scalp care. Anti-thinning shampoos often include ingredients that exfoliate the scalp to clear away any buildup that may have accumulated, getting in the way of growth. "Caring for your scalp is key to treating and reducing thinning hair," says Dr. Gohara. "You should care for your scalp like you care for your face. Gently exfoliate, avoid harsh products and regularly hydrate to keep your scalp happy and healthy in order to avoid thinning hair."

As Dr. Marcus explains, anti-thinning shampoos can also make hair look fuller as you work to strengthen it. "Hair-thickening shampoos actually coat individual strands of hair and cause them to appear thicker by increasing the diameter of each strand," she says.

In addition to practicing proper scalp care and stocking up on the right products, you can try reducing your use of heating tools and avoid rinsing your locks with super hot water, as well as steering clear of harsh treatments or drying products. "These aggressors are constantly degrading our hair’s protective cuticle, causing cracks through which protein leaches out," says Vellozzi. "Regularly repairing that damage with protein-rich products is the key to maintaining hair health,"

Another pro tip? Add a handy scalp massager into your hair care mix to encourage circulation—they've been proven to increase hair thickness, per a 2016 study published in Eplasty.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Shampoo Do Doctors Recommend for Thinning Hair?

While all of the shampoos on our list were selected for their doctor-recommended or study-proven hair loss ingredients, Dr. Gohara recommends Nioxin cleanser shampoo (from $30) in particular because she says it slows the progression of hair thinning by removing barriers to new growth (i.e., any buildup of oils, debris or toxins on the scalp) with its salicylic acid exfoliation. "It's specifically designed to promote thicker, fuller-looking hair and a healthy scalp, and it addresses different levels of thinning across various hair types," she explains.

What Shampoo to Avoid for Thinning Hair?

If you have thinning hair, one ingredient you may want to be sure to steer clear from in your shampoo is sodium laureth sulfate, also known as SLS. Often found in shampoos, SLS is what creates the foamy lather that most of us associate with truly getting our hair clean. Unfortunately, sulfates can strip the hair of natural oils, damage the proteins in your hair and irritate your scalp, all of which can lead to breakage and hair loss. Depending on your hair type, you may want to opt for a sulfate-free shampoo to reduce the risk of causing further hair thinning.


Anna Lane

Freelance Writer


nicole villeneuve

Freelance Writer

Nicole Villeneuve is a freelance writer based in Toronto and has been writing about all things pop culture, entertainment and lifestyle for more than ten years. She's a thrift-store expert, group chat GIF spammer and somehow still regularly watches MTV's Teen Mom.

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