13 best shampoos for hair loss that actually work, tested & reviewed
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I’ve been on a mission to find the best shampoos for hair loss ever since I realised my beloved slick-back ponytails were definitely having an adverse effect on my hairline. TBH, I’ve always had relatively thin hair – so finding products that promise to plump it up a bit, and stimulate growth has become my mission – from the best hair growth serums to the best red light therapy hair growth devices.
While the best shampoos for hair growth won't instantly restore your hair, these trusty shampoos can leave your scalp happier and healthier over time — ultimately leading to a fuller, bouncier, and better-moisturised mane. “Shampoos for thinning hair are formulated to help reduce hair loss and encourage regrowth — and some will also focus on growing thicker hair,” adds Gretchen Friese, a certified trichologist at hair-restoration company BosleyMD.
There are heaps of different formulas to choose from, too – whether you're looking to improve your hair's overall density and volume, or boost blood flow to your follicles in order to stimulate growth. And, when it comes to growth, scalp health should be your number one priority, so finding a good shampoo and conditioner that cleanses the scalp, rather than causes buildup, is key.
To learn more about what these shampoos actually are, whether they really work and which ones are actually worth buying, I spoke to multiple dermatologists, hairstylists, and trichologists to get the low down. Below, find answers to all your key questions on treating hair loss — as well as the Glamour team's tried-and-tested top shampoos for hair loss.
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How I tested the best shampoos for thinning hair:
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After consolidating a list of dermatologist-recommended and best-selling picks for thinning-hair shampoo, I assigned each product to just one reviewer to test. Each person consistently used their shampoo for at least six weeks (experts we spoke to said six to eight weeks is the minimum amount of time to start seeing any sort of effect).
I asked each reviewer to follow the product’s directions and to take account of their hair’s shedding (did it shed less after regular shampooing?), fullness, and density (especially along the hairline) at the end of the trial. I also asked them to evaluate the shampoo’s fragrance (was it overpowering?), how well it lathered and washed out, and value (how quickly it ran out and how effectively it worked given its price tag). Finally, I used their feedback to determine how we could categorise each shampoo — and whether it deserved to make this list at all.
Why you can trust me:
I've been a journalist in the beauty, home, and lifestyle space for six years now – starting out in the HuffPost shopping team, before going freelance in early 2023. Over the past three years, I've helped the lovely Glamour Shopping team test and review hundreds of different beauty and wellness products – while also doing the same thing for publications like Metro and Marie Claire.
Crucially, this same level of experience and expertise can also be said for any other Glamour staffers who contributed to this piece – and you can trust that any of their product recommendations are well-researched and truly authentic.
As a lifelong bottle blonde who's dealt with some serious thinning and damage in her time, haircare is an area that I'm particularly passionate about. In my work with Glamour, I've written heaps of haircare edits – like this one on the best purple shampoos – and this has meant speaking with heaps of different experts, and learning everything there is to know about what goes into making a genuinely great shampoo. Put simply, if there's a hair product out there for fine hair, I promise that I've tried it.
Ahead, shop Glamour's edit of the best shampoos for hair loss and thinning that you can buy right now.
1. Best Shampoo for Hair Growth Overall:
UKLASH UKHAIR Growth Shampoo
- What we like: Clinically proven formula, strengthens from the root, anti-dandruff and anti-static benefits & suitable for all hair types.
- What could improve: Not the most intensely volumising finish for very fine hair.
If you’re already loyal to UKLASH (guilty), this feels like the natural next step in your growth routine. The clinically proven formula blends amino acids with pineapple extract to help stimulate the scalp and create the ideal environment for stronger, healthier hair growth. Vitamin B5 (Panthenol) works behind the scenes to nourish and reinforce strands from the root, supporting longer lengths that feel softer and more resilient over time. It’s also vegan-friendly and cleverly formulated with anti-dandruff and anti-static technology - meaning it doesn’t just focus on growth, it leaves hair smooth and far more manageable.
Tester review: “I was already obsessed with UKLASH’s eyelash serum before my wedding – it genuinely transformed my lashes – so I had high hopes for the Growth Shampoo. After a few weeks, my scalp felt healthier and less irritated, and my hair looked shinier without feeling weighed down. I’ve been pairing it with the brand’s Hair Growth Serum, and together they’ve become my go-to for maintaining thickness and keeping shedding in check.” – Shani Cohen, Glamour's Beauty Commerce Writer.
2. Best Shampoo For Long-Lasting Fullness and Body: Champo Pitta Volumising Shampoo
- What we like: Instantly thickens the look of fine hair; helps protect against breakage; safe for coloured and treated hair.
- What could improve: The natural grey tone may surprise first-time users.
If you’re experiencing hair loss, or are longing for some real volume (without damaging your hair with extensions), Champo’s Pitta Volumising Shampoo is well-worth a try. It cleanses without stripping, adds instant lift to the roots, and gives hair that fuller-looking, bouncier finish you’d expect to find after a salon blow-dry.
One thing that might shock first-time users is that it’s naturally grey – not pearly white like most shampoos. This is due to the haritaki fruit extract, and it’s actually a good sign as it means there are no artificial colours or nasties to worry about. It’s also packed with amla and turmeric to help strengthen hair and protect against breakage, which is key when you’re trying to hang onto every strand and grow things out.
Tester review: “I recently switched my shampoo to this one, after noticing more hair coming out on my hairbrush than usual. I’ve only used it for about 3 weeks, but I have already noticed less breakage when brushing, and it gives way more bounce and body to my hair than other shampoos I’ve tried in the past. It’s not an instant fix - many say it takes between 6-8 months to see a real difference with thickness and length – so stick with it.” - Glamour tester.
3. Best Shampoo for Hair Loss: Kérastase Densifique Thickening Shampoo for Thinning Hair
- What we like: Improves fullness and strength; Doesn’t weigh down hair with residue.
- What could improve: Strong scent; Tough to dispense from the bottle; pricey.
Kérastase makes some of our editors’ favourite hair-growth masks and shampoos, including this one. Its formula is rich in hyaluronic acid, which deeply moisturises and helps your scalp rebuild its natural ecosystem, says Melanie Palm, MD, a board-certified dermatologist. Meanwhile, gluco-peptides repair hair and improve overall density. After a little under a year of use, our tester says she likes how voluminous and thick her fine, thinning hair looks after use — and truly clean-feeling, without buildup.
Tester review: “This thickening shampoo was one of my holy grails during a period of time where my hair was thinning around the crown of my head. The consistency of this formula is thick and easy to disperse around your hair. During testing, I left it in for about five minutes before rinsing out. After about three weeks, I did see some fullness in areas that once looked sparse, and I also found my hair to generally be smoother, bouncier, and softer. It didn’t weigh my hair down either (a plus for someone with super-straight hair). Instead, it looked more full of life and thicker. The smell is very strong, so I’d shy away from it if you dislike strong fragrance, but I’d definitely recommend it if you’re looking for a thinning-hair solution, stat.” — Alanna Martine Kilkeary, Glamour UK Commerce Writer.
Enjoy savings when shopping for best shampoos using these LookFantastic discount codes.
4. Best Volumising Shampoo for Hair Loss: Bumble and Bumble Thickening Volume Shampoo
- What we like: Doesn’t weigh down hair; Thickens thinning patches on the scalp.
- What could improve: Consistency is tacky to touch.
Bumble and Bumble’s shampoo is rich in panthenol (a vitamin B5) and aloe, ingredients that hydrate and plump your hair so it looks lush and full. That volumisation can help cover thinner patches of your scalp. Our reviewer liked how bouncy and thick her hair looked after use, in a world where many shampoos can coat fine, thin hair and weigh it down. She also appreciated its easy-to-squeeze bottle; bright, floral scent with notes of cedarwood; and how easily it lathered.
Tester review: “I struggled with major hair thinning last year, to the point where I was just throwing about everything at it to try to get it to grow along the crown by my bangs. I would wear my hair with two strands down at the front, and noticed huge gaps and patches around where the rest of my hair stood (as seen in the before image). After trying multiple (and I mean multiple) shampoos, I found success with this Bumble and Bumble formula, which helped thicken my hair. My thinner, spottier areas looked a lot plumper and became much easier to hide. Although it wasn’t a solution for growing new hair itself, I’d definitely recommend it to those in need of a little volume boost on areas of your hair that are sparse.” — A.M.K.
5. Best Hair Loss Shampoo for Smooth and Shiny Locks: Hairburst Advanced+ Shampoo Formula
- What we like: Smells amazing; Formulated specifically to minimise hair loss; Leaves hair really smooth and shiny.
- What could improve: Nothing of note.
A seriously impressive formula, this gorgeous new shampoo is infused with plant-based keratin, repairing oat peptides, and a KeraSym™ shield, which provides a protective barrier against environmental damage. Put simply, it repairs bonds, rebuilds internal strength, and even repairs up to 19% of damage – and it does all of this in stunning pink packaging.
Tester review: “I was lucky enough to get the chance to try out the Hairburst Advanced+ range ahead of its release, and it's now my go-to. The shampoo has a deliciously fruity and floral white mulberry scent, and it feels really thick and nourishing when applied – lathering up quickly, and leaving my scalp feeling squeaky clean. Then, once my hair has been towel-dried, I follow up with the Advanced+ Leave-In Treatment, which replaces any conditioner and leaves me with seriously soft and silky locks that are far more manageable for styling. Together, these products have changed the game for me and my damaged locks – as my hair is instantly far more bouncy and smooth, but also definitely looks and feels far healthier and stronger after a month of continuous use." — Georgia Lockstone, Freelance Commerce Writer at Glamour.
6. Best Affordable Shampoo for Hair Loss: John Frieda PROfiller+ Thickening Shampoo
- What we like: Instantly plumping and thickening effect; Really affordable option; Prolongs the period between washes.
- What could improve: Some say it leaves your hair a little more tangled.
This best-selling John Frieda thickening shampoo is one of our top picks for anyone seeking a more affordable formula. Providing instant plumping, it promises to thicken fine and thin hair by up to 200% — leaving you with a visibly fuller and denser mane after just one wash. And it's all thanks to the seriously nourishing formula of strengthening biotin and hydrating hyaluronic acid — they work together to fortify every single strand, and therefore reduce any hair loss caused by breakage.
Enjoy savings when shopping for best shampoos using these Sephora discount codes.
7. Best Soothing Shampoo for Hair Loss: Maria Nila Head & Hair Heal Shampoo
- What we like: Stimulates while still soothing; Prevents dandruff; 100% vegan formula.
- What could improve: Literally nothing.
As well as stimulating the hair follicles in order to encourage growth, this seriously calming shampoo is packed with impressive active ingredients that work together to prevent dandruff and other scalp problems. Plus, the formula is completely colour-protective – so it'll help prevent any fading.
Ideal for dry and itchy scalps, gentle aloe vera extract soothes and moisturises, while active ingredients like Piroctone Olamine and vitamin E promote balance and softness, and protect against skin damage. Meanwhile, apigenin, oleanolic acid, and peptides team up to transfer nutrients to the hair follicles and stimulate that all-important growth.
8. Best Shampoo for Postpartum Hair Loss: Nécessaire Rosemary Shampoo
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- What we love: Rosemary oil can lead to hair growth; Great fragrance; Clarifies strands.
- What could improve: Can be drying for curls (so might want to limit its use to every other wash).
The main ingredient in Nécessaire’s botanically based shampoo is rosemary oil — which can help block DHT, stimulate blood flow to the scalp, and create a healthier environment for hair to grow. With this in mind, it's a great ingredient for postpartum hair loss.
“Rosemary shampoo is helpful for anyone desiring to reduce shedding or anyone who desires to have hair to be thicker and fuller,” says Candace Spann, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and hair-loss specialist.
Its formula also includes strengthening plant proteins and ceramides that protect your scalp’s barrier. When looking for a shampoo for curly hair, our reviewer landed on this one. She says she saw noticeably more volume, shine, and definition in her thinning curls — not to mention that her hair smelled great.
Tester review: “Though not specifically marketed for curly hair, this shampoo has really enhanced the volume and texture of my curls. Its refreshing gel-like consistency with pure rosemary oil tingles the scalp in the best way, providing a thorough cleanse without stripping it and leaving it feeling dry and stale. The mix of rosemary, mandarin, jasmine, and cedarwood almost creates a spa-like experience as I’m in the shower, which I’m definitely not mad at. This shampoo addresses thinning and colour-safety concerns, strengthening hair and minimising breakage with ceramides and plant proteins. My curls feel clean, hydrated, and bouncier, with a healthier scalp free from dryness and irritation (since it’s noncomedogenic, in case you have sensitive skin).” — Jade Brito, Glamour contributor.
9. Best Repairing Shampoo for Hair Loss: OLAPLEX No. 4 Bond Maintenance Shampoo
- What we like: Nourishing and hydrating formula; Repairs broken bonds and strengthens strands; Leaves hair smooth and shiny.
- What could improve: Less of an instant volumising effect.
The ultimate strengthening shampoo, this original OLAPLEX shampoo is one of our go-to hair products for chemically damaged or colour-treated hair that's dry and prone to breakage. A highly-concentrated formula, its patented active ingredient works on a molecular level to repair and rebuild broken bonds, while glycerin and hydrating oils work together to ensure that every strand is properly nourished. Providing a gentle yet effective cleanse that doesn't strip the scalp, it's suitable for all hair types and textures.
Tester review: “After a decade of highlights and far too much heat styling, I was left with damaged hair that would break off before it reached my shoulders, lots of knots and frizz, and a balding patch at the back of my head.. I went to see a new hairdresser, and she recommended the OLAPLEX system — giving me an in-salon treatment, and then sending me home with the shampoo and conditioner set, and the brand's iconic No. 3 Hair Perfector. You really don't need much of this shampoo at all to get a lovely lather, and from the very first wash I noticed just how much shinier, smoother, and softer my hair looked and felt. And best of all, my bald spot is now completely covered by healthy hair regrowth.” — Georgia Lockstone, Freelance Commerce Writer at Glamour.
10. Best Weightless Shampoo for Hair Loss: Philip Kingsley Body Building Weightless Shampoo
- What we like: Really lightweight feel; Controls static and flyaways; Designed and developed by trichologists.
- What could improve: Nothing of note.
Despite providing serious body and bounce, this lovely Philip Kingsley shampoo is seriously lightweight — boasting an impressive formula of volumising ingredients that are great for your overall scalp and hair health, and also don't leave behind any pesky product build-up or residue. Natural cellulose will plump and thicken out fine strands, and keratin will boost the appearance of limp locks, while also strengthening your mane in the long-run. Meanwhile, copolymers help control any pesky flyaways and static, making this shampoo one of our favourites to use before attempting a sleek and glossy blow-dry.
11. Best Hydrating Shampoo for Hair Loss: OUAI Fine Hair Shampoo
- What we like: Nourishing and volumising formula; Sensational scent; Ideal for dry hair.
- What could improve: Some users report that it can cause dandruff.
Designed to increase hair density, strengthen the follicles, and seriously nourish, hydrate, and plump up your strands, biotin shampoos are ideal for limp and lacklustre locks. Also formulated with thickening chia seed oil, hydrating hemp seed extract, and moisturising hydrolysed keratin, this OUAI shampoo is one of our favourite options for fine hair that deserves a little extra nourishment. Expect to be left with silky-smooth and glossy strands that have a lovely amount of bounce and body.
“This gentle shampoo is one of my favourites because it always does the job of making my fine hair look a lot more voluminous and bouncy. It has a lightweight gel formula that lathers nicely without weighing hair down, and it never makes my roots or strands look greasy and flat. Instead, they have bounce and body.” — Alanna Martine Kilkeary, Glamour commerce writer.
12. Best Anti-Dandruff Shampoo for Hair Loss: Nizoral Dandruff Treatment 2% w/w Shampoo
- What we like: Contains proven ingredients that fight hair loss; Lathers easily; Affordable.
- What could improve: Not suitable for extreme cases of dandruff; can be drying.
Dandruff is a type of dermatitis that causes the overgrowth of a yeast found on the scalp that can lead to scalp flaking, inflammation, and hair loss. The key ingredient in this Nizoral shampoo is ketoconazole — an antifungal medication that reduces the overgrowth of that yeast. Studies have shown that ketoconazole can block the effects of an enzyme that converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that attacks the hair follicle. “It’s excess DHT that leads to androgenic alopecia (also called male- and female-pattern hair loss),” says Brooke Jeffy, MD, a board-certified dermatologist who specialises in hair loss and skin care. Connie Yang, MD, a board-certified dermatologist, says Nizoral is an effective, easily accessible option for milder cases of dry, flaking scalps: “We often prescribe a prescription version of this in the office that contains 2% ketoconazole versus the 1% found over the counter.”
Tester review: “Nizoral has been the only product that’s actually helped my flaky scalp. The dandruff shampoo has a cooling sensation when applied, and it smells a bit fresh and medicinal. It lathers really well, which is nice because I feel like my hair is actually getting cleaned. I’ve gone through three bottles of this product since I started using it last summer. I wash my hair with it once a week, and make sure to add scalp serum afterwards to fight any stripping.” — Jenifer Calle, Glamour US Senior Shopping Editor.
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13. Best Natural Shampoo For Hair Loss: The Powder Shampoo Invigorating Shampoo
- What we like: Natural, plant-powered ingredients; Eco-friendly powder format; Designed to stimulate scalp circulation.
- What could improve: Powder formulas take a little bit of getting used to.
Designed to promote healthy hair growth and improve density, this clean, vegan, and sulphate-free shampoo is great for thinning hair caused by ageing, and has even been formulated to address reactive and chronic alopecia concerns. A plant-powered formula, bergamot and thyme balance and stimulate the scalp in order to provide the optimum conditions for growth, while ginger and ginseng help strengthen the hair bulbs, and biotin reduces thinning.
Alongside all the haircare benefits, this powder shampoo is also a great pick for eco-conscious shoppers, as it's formulated without any water, and also comes in a recyclable and reusable aluminium bottle. Plus, the powder format is really well-suited to travelling.
Your questions about shampoo for thinning hair, answered:
Do any hair growth shampoos really work?
“The effectiveness [of a shampoo for thinning hair] varies depending on the reason for hair loss,” says Hardik Doshi, MD, FACS, double-board-certified lead surgeon at hair-restoration studio Ample. “They’re not a solution for hair loss, but they can assist in creating an optimal environment for the survival of existing hair follicles on the scalp.” In other words, if you’re losing hair because of pattern baldness or your hormones, a shampoo alone can’t restore your full head of hair. A multifaceted, holistic approach developed with a dermatologist or trichologist is needed, involving a personalised treatment that usually also includes medication, dietary changes, and stress reduction. “Shampoos are rarely an independent type of solution, yet, together with the treatment, they can help to struggle through the restoration process,” says Dr. Doshi.
What a shampoo can do is help maintain a healthy scalp environment that’s needed for hair growth and to prevent buildup and irritation that could get in the way of that growth, says trichologist Caspara. They can also add more volume and density, which make hair appear fuller.
What causes thinning hair?
“The most common cause is androgenetic alopecia, also called male- or female-pattern hair loss,” says Brooke Jeffy, MD, a board-certified dermatologist who specialises in hair loss and skin care. “This causes a widening of the part in women and a receding hairline or bald spot in men.” This kind of hair fall is a result of a hormone called dihydrotestosterone (DHT) attacking the hair follicle, says Friese. “When this happens, the follicle starts to minimise and grow thinner and thinner hair, until it closes and the hair stops growing out of that follicle.”
Hormonal imbalances, nutrition deficiencies, and rapid weight loss can also cause hair loss — as well as ongoing stress, pregnancy, and some autoimmune disorders.
How can I tell if my hair is thinning?
“Hair thinning is one of those things that can sneak up on you without you realising the warning signs,” says Dr. Doshi. “Normal daily shedding is no cause for alarm, but thick clumps of hair loss for sudden reasons, loss concentrated in one place, dryness, brittleness, or new cowlicks forming all indicate that something is going on.”
“Thinning hair is a slow, gradual process where individual hairs loose circumference,” says Mark Townsend, a celebrity hairstylist. This is not to be confused with hair breakage or loss, which is when strands fall out from the root. This thinning usually begins with the shrinking of hairs around the front hairline, the nape of the neck, or at the crown of the head. Women usually experience it as a widening of their parts.
“If your hair is feeling less dense (like your ponytail seems to have less girth), or you are seeing more scalp than hair, more hair in your brush, or more on the shower floor when you shampoo, then you may be experiencing some hair thinning,” says Friese.
What ingredients should I look for in a shampoo to promote hair growth?
These ingredients crop up most commonly in shampoos for hair growth and thinning hair:
- Ketoconazole: A drug that can help lessen scalp irritation and encourage growth by reducing fungus caused by dandruff and acne.
- Minoxidil: A medication that can potentially reverse hair-follicle miniaturization by increasing blood circulation. It needs to be able to penetrate the scalp in order to be effective, however, which a shampoo can’t do alone as it’s rinsed off.
- Rogaine: A topical medication that has demonstrated efficacy in stimulating hair growth by bringing blood and nutrients to the scalp. It comes in a range of formulations and strengths, says Dr. Doshi.
- Biotin: An important B vitamin that potentially “supports keratin production to increase hair volume and density, and strengthen the hair shaft,” says Michele Green, MD, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist.
- Niacin: An antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties that can strengthen hair follicles and promote overall scalp health.
- Saw palmetto: A natural plant extract that may potentially slow hair loss.
- Rosemary, caffeine, peppermint: Natural ingredients that stimulate blood flow to the scalp.
How long will it take to see results?
Using a shampoo alone may not yield the exact results you want if you’re experiencing serious thinning. For that, you’ll want to talk to a derm or trichologist to develop an overall routine that is suitable for you, possibly including medication and dietary changes.
That said — after six to eight weeks — your hair should have noticeably more volume and fullness, assuming the thinning isn't too intense.
Can thin hair be thickened again?
In short – yes. Clearly, one of the best things you can do is swap to a shampoo that's been specifically designed for thinning hair – which means avoiding harsh sulphates and parabens, and prioritising gentle cleansing agents instead.
"Shampoos that are made with stimulating ingredients that can increase blood circulation at the scalp can really benefit those who suffer from thinning hair," Caspara explains. "Thickeners that can instantly plump up the hair shaft and provide a gratifying feeling of thicker and fuller hair can also help ease the stress of dealing with hair thinning.”
But there are also some other general considerations and lifestyle changes that could help thicken up your thin hair, too:
- Think about your diet. Not eating a well-balanced diet can have a significant impact on the overall health and thickness of your hair. Make sure you're eating enough protein, as well as consuming plenty of fruits and vegetables that are rich in key vitamins and minerals.
- Limit harsh treatments and styling methods. Cutting down on heat styling can be a great way to promote hair growth and help – so ditch the curling tong in favour of heatless curling methods. Also, adopt low tension hair styles where possible – rather than always opting for a tight slicked-back bun, which will likely cause breakage.
- Try out some other OTC hair growth products. If you're not sure about your shampoo, there are still heaps of other products for hair loss to consider. Applying scalp scrubs and hair growth serums can really help remove any product buildup, and stimulate hair growth — while taking biotin supplements can be a great option if you like the sound of supporting your hair and nails. Alternatively, red light therapy hair growth devices come with a pretty hefty price-tag, but can make a significant difference to a hair loss journey.
Meet the experts:
- Hardik Doshi, MD, FACS, double-board-certified lead surgeon at hair-restoration studio Ample.
- Brooke Jeffy, MD, a board-certified dermatologist who specialises in hair loss and skincare.
- Shab Caspara, a board-certified trichologist and founder of hair care brand Leona.
- Gretchen Friese, a certified trichologist at hair-restoration company BosleyMD.
- Caroline Robinson, MD, FAAD, a board-certified medical and cosmetic dermatologist.
- Michele Green, MD, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist.
This story originally appeared on GLAMOUR US.
