The 10 Best Hair Growth Shampoos

While this isn’t technically a shampoo, we had to include it up top because, according to Dr. King, the only over-the-counter treatment that has scientifically been proven to work for hair growth is Minoxidil (the active ingredient found in Rogaine). She explains: “Minoxidil is a potassium channel opener, causing hyperpolarization of cell membranes. Theoretically, by widening blood vessels and opening potassium channels, it allows more oxygen, blood and nutrients to reach the follicles, which can encourage growth.” The reason why minoxidil is best used as a leave-in treatment is because you want it to have a longer contact period with your scalp.

This new formula from Nioxin swiftly removes build up from your scalp without drying out the rest of your hair. This can likely be attributed to a host of ingredients—including niacinamide, caffeine and lauric acid—which are said to stimulate hair follicles and nourish dry strands. Personally, I love the peppermint oil in it, which creates a refreshing tingle while you lather up. (Tip: For best results, massage the shampoo into your scalp for a full two minutes before rinsing.)

Redway recommends Nexxus’ anti-breakage shampoo (in combination with their Thickening Conditioner) to really boost limp strands. “The key to healthy hair growth is to look for ingredients that will help strengthen hair to allow it to grow instead of breaking. This shampoo was specifically created to protect strands and reduce breakage while cleansing,” she explains. A closer look at the label reveals that it has biotin, keratin and collagen amino acid in it.

This sulfate-free shampoo is a PureWow editor favorite because it leaves hair feeling softer and fuller, not weighed down. The formula has natural proteins and its proprietary “Karmatin”—a vegan version of keratin—in it to strengthen strands and prevent shedding. It also smells delightful.

This shampoo's core ingredients are formulated to nourish your hair and clear buildup from your scalp; it also has keratins in it to make your hair look fuller. 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 density booster (from $28), 91 percent reported a decrease in hair fallout, while 94 percent said they had more volume.

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. Next comes the peppermint oil, which is naturally antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory, helping to keep your scalp heath in check. Last but not least, there's biotin, which has 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 strands that don’t feel stripped.

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 oil 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.

As the name implies, this shampoo’s core ingredient is caviar and 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.

On the hunt for a gentle wash 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 linked to hair loss), this anti-thinning formula is loaded with soothing coconut oil, vitamin E and nourishing green tea so it smooths your ends, too. Better yet, Amazon reviewers say it's lightweight enough for everyday use.

If you have an overly oily scalp, chances are its pH balance is out of whack. Nutrafol’s formula works to correct this, giving you a deep clean while balancing sebum levels. 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—which, again, is key for growth and preventing loss.