7 best shampoos for thinning hair according to dermatologists
When you say you’re experiencing some form of hair loss, people tend to have all kinds of ideas about the so-called cause, many of which are completely false (like wearing too many hats or shaving your head too much). In reality, the reasons why certain men are more prone to hair loss are simpler and more comprehensive.
Dr. Corey L. Hartman, board-certified dermatologist and founder of Skin Wellness Dermatology in Birmingham, Alabama, believes that several underlying factors affect men’s health, including genetics, hormones, lifestyle, nutrition, and metabolism. He explains that it affects hair loss and that all of them can be remedied. A great shampoo formulated to help. “When dealing with hair thinning, men need to approach hair health from the whole body by targeting multiple root causes and using products that support a healthy scalp microbiome,” Hartman added. .
According to Dr. Hartman, some of these shampoos coat your hair strands with proteins and polymers to increase hair volume and make it look fuller, while others coat hair strands with proteins and polymers to improve overall scalp health. Some contain ingredients that strengthen and thicken hair. For those who have already lost a significant portion of their hair and are looking to get it back, we recommend looking for shampoos aimed at hair growth instead. Although thinning hair shampoos like the ones on this list primarily focus on preventing future hair loss and restoring hair volume and thickness, there are quite a few differences between the two products.
Unsurprisingly, Dr. Hartman recommends that to get the most out of shampoos designed for regrowth or thickening, especially in more severe cases, you should use products that address the root causes of hair thinning or baldness, such as hair growth supplements and serums. It points out that it should be used in conjunction with hair products that address it. .
That being said, there are so many shampoos on the market today that are specifically aimed at attacking thinning hair that choosing one that works can feel overwhelming. To help you make this decision, our grooming editors have tested countless shampoos for thinning hair to find one that really works for every hair type. Below are seven of our favorites.
Things to consider
main ingredients
To strengthen and thicken your hair, Dr. Hartman recommends looking for a shampoo that contains biotin, a B vitamin that helps your body produce keratin (the protein that makes up hair). We also recommend prioritizing shampoos that specifically target your scalp’s microbiome to create an environment that supports hair growth with natural enzymes and amino acids, exfoliate and control oil. Dr. Heather Woolley Lloyd, a board-certified dermatologist, recommends shampoos containing minoxidil to extend the hair growth cycle and increase hair thickness.
She also points out that wheat protein is an important resource. Because, “this protein helps plump the hair shaft, making it look thicker and fuller.” Of course, there are also some ingredients you should avoid that can complicate these treatments. Dr. Hartman advises against using shampoos that contain sulfates or parabens, as they can strip your hair of its natural oils and cause dryness. “These ingredients can also weaken the hair shaft, leading to increased breakage and further thinning,” he says. Dr. Woolley-Lloyd added that it’s a good idea to avoid harsh chemical treatments, hair bleaching, and excessive heat during blow-drying to avoid negative effects.
hair type
When choosing a shampoo for thinning hair, it is important to consider your hair type. This way, you are sure to find a product that not only tackles your hair thinning problem, but also promotes the overall health and appearance of your hair. For example, Dr. Woolley-Lloyd explains that people with fine hair often find that using ultra-texturizing shampoos can weigh down their hair. That’s why Dr. Hartman advises people with fine hair to look for shampoos that are lightweight and volumizing.
“Coarse, curly, dry or color-treated hair will benefit from a moisture-rich, sulfate-free formula that prevents dryness and promotes hydration. Meanwhile, oily hair “You need a clarifying shampoo that manages excess sebum without stripping your scalp,” he added.
size
Bottle size shouldn’t be your main consideration when choosing a shampoo for thinning hair, but it’s worth considering, especially if you’re on a budget. Some of these shampoos come with a hefty price tag. Like any shampoo, you need to buy it regularly. If you’re watching your spending, look for a larger bottle to help save you coins in the long run, as cost per use can play a key role in your decision-making process.
How to choose
Over the past two years, Men’s Health’s grooming editors have tested dozens of shampoos, evaluating them not only for their effectiveness against thinning hair, but also for how well they clean hair and what shape they leave it in. We also consulted hair loss experts like Dr. Hartman and Dr. Woolley Lloyd to get their reviews on the best over-the-counter shampoos for every hair type. They also provided subtle details on what readers should look for (and what to avoid) in shampoos for thinning hair.
We then conducted further testing based on the recommendations and narrowed down the list to the following 7 shampoos that are best for thinning hair.
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Comprehensive shampoo perfect for thinning hair
DS Laboratories Revita Shampoo for thinning hair
Dr Woolley Lloyd explains that the most common cause of hair loss in men is androgenic alopecia (also known as male pattern baldness), which is usually genetic. However, even if you are genetically predisposed to hair loss, you can prevent it by blocking the hormone known as dihydrotestosterone (DHT). “DHT is a byproduct of testosterone that binds to receptors in hair follicles, causing them to shrink over time and produce thinner, weaker hair,” says Dr Woolley-Lloyd.
DS Labs’ Revita shampoo is formulated with DHT blockers like caffeine, biotin, antioxidants, and amino acids to help fight future hair loss. Of all the shampoos we tested, this is the one that saw the most immediate and noticeable improvement in hair thickness and volume. Hair felt soft, but not squeaky, just like some of the higher-end shampoos we’ve tested.
Its ingredients also include wheat protein, which Dr Woolley-Lloyd says helps thicken hair, and glycerin, a humectant that attracts water to the hair to keep it hydrated and healthy overall. is admitted.
Dr. Woolery-Lloyd added, “DS Labs Revita shampoo is highly effective and highly recommended by dermatology leaders in hair research.” It has also been pointed out that the ingredient taurine contained in it has the effect of promoting keratin production. This is in addition to a 100% sulfate and paraben free formula.
Simply put, there is no better option for thinning hair than DS Labs Revita shampoo.
Read more: Best shampoo for men
Key Ingredients Caffeine, Biotin, Antioxidants, Amino Acids, Wheat Protein Hair Types All Sizes 7 oz.
Combo shampoo perfect for thinning hair
Nutrafol Active Cleanse 2-in-1 Shampoo and Conditioner
Pros Sulfate and paraben free Two-in-one shampoo and conditioner that actually works Gentle on the scalp Cons Not suitable for people who already have a favorite conditioner
Like the 2007 Patriots, this Nutrafall shampoo is basically as close to the top as you can get without actually being number one. This is certainly Dr. Hartman’s favorite and one that he regularly recommends to people suffering from hair loss. “Shampoos like Nutrafol’s 2-in-1 Active Cleanse can help support thinning hair by specifically targeting the scalp microbiome and creating an environment that supports hair growth,” he says. Then, it adds that it’s also formulated with biosurfactants that provide deep cleansing without stripping the scalp, while pomegranate enzymes and amino acids help exfoliate and control oil.
Not to mention, the formula contains konjac root, which can also condition and detangle long hair without weighing it down. But its biggest advantage is that it is designed not only to strengthen your hair, but also to save time. “If you’re looking for a hassle-free product, the best thing about Nutrafol’s new active cleanse is that it’s a 2-in-1 product specifically created to optimize and simplify men’s hair care routines while taking into account your busy schedule. That’s true,” says Dr. Hartman. .
Main Ingredients Pomegranate Enzyme, Amino Acid, Konjac Root Hair Type All Sizes 8.1oz
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The best daily shampoo for thinning hair
Huron Wash & Strength Shampoo
Pros Contains vitamin E and B12 Menthol leaves have a cooling effect on the scalp Cons Can be drying for sensitive people
I found this shampoo from Huron to be a great option for daily volume. It’s bigger and cheaper than other options on this list, and it can help give your hair a fuller look when used regularly. Needless to say, Dr. Hartman supports this. “I like Huron shampoo because it leaves you feeling refreshed with cooling menthol, moisturizes with argan oil, and also helps strengthen your hair with vitamin E and vitamin B5. It’s packed with healthy ingredients. Healthy scalp and hair.
Key Ingredients Argan Oil, Panthenol, Vitamin E, Glycerin, Menthol Hair Types All Sizes 11.7oz
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Best shampoo for fine thin hair
R+Co Dallas Biotin Thickening Shampoo
Pros Contains biotin Good lather with a small amount Cons The scent may be too strong for some people
Fine hair isn’t necessarily prone to thinning, which is also largely due to genetics, but it can suffer from visual shortcomings sooner than other hair types. That’s why it’s especially important to find a shampoo that adds volume and plumps up your hair. After using this option from R+Co, my hair looked stronger and more bouncy after just one wash. This is mainly due to the shampoo’s biotin, which stimulates the hair follicles, increases keratin production, and strengthens the hair overall. Not to mention, it has a wonderful floral scent.
Main ingredient Biotin Hair type Fine to normal size 8.5 oz.
Best shampoo for thinning hair
The Rootist Densify Concentrated Shampoo
Pros Contains no sulfates or parabens A little goes a long way Cons Small bottle, only 4 oz.
Finding the right products for curly or coarse hair can sometimes be difficult, as they require specific formulations that address unique needs that not all shampoos take into account. For Rootist Densify Shampoo, this couldn’t be further from the truth.
This formula contains Rootist’s patent-pending Root Biomic Fermentation and features rich nutrients designed to anchor roots and balance your scalp. It contains red ginseng root, which strengthens and protects the roots, and reishi mushroom, which strengthens the scalp barrier and supports overall balance.
Main Ingredients Root Biomic Ferment, Amaranth Peptide, Hair Type Coarse, Curly Size 4oz
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meet an expert
Corey L. Hartman, MD, is the founder and medical director of Skin Wellness Dermatology in Birmingham, Alabama, and is a board-certified dermatologist. Dr. Heather Woolery-Lloyd is a board-certified dermatologist based in Miami, Florida.
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