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Byrdie / Kevin Liang
Everyone experiences hair fallout (it's normal to shed anywhere from 50 to 100 strands per day), but if you regularly lose clumps of hair or notice patchiness on your scalp, it could be hair loss or thinning. "These signs may indicate miniaturization of the hair follicle, leading to permanent hair loss," explains board-certified dermatologist Suneel Chilukuri, MD.
While the underlying causes of hair loss include hormonal changes, genetics, and even traumatic events, healthy hair usually begins with a healthy scalp, so using a specially formulated shampoo for thinning hair can help improve scalp conditions that contribute to hair loss. "The right growth shampoo can promote a healthier scalp to keep the hair in the anagen (growing) phase longer, which results in less hair fall," says Chilukuri. While there's no need to stress if you're seeing minor shedding in your hairbrush or shower drain, shampoos specifically for thinning hair can help boost volume and thickness in most hair types.
We conducted hours of research to determine the best shampoos for thinning hair, and even put a few top-rated products to the test at home for several weeks. We paid attention to how well each formula addressed fallout, as well as overall hair thickness, fullness, and strength. After consulting both dermatologists and hair care experts, we landed on these top picks to give you the best in show.
FYI, your scalp routine matters too. “To repair thinning hair, you must take a very aggressive approach,” explains hairstylist Adam Federico. “First and foremost, I recommend doing everything you can to assure that your scalp is in its best condition. Hair grows through follicles on your scalp, and if those follicles are blocked or obstructed by dead skin cells, growth can slow or stop completely.”
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Removes buildup without causing irritation
Strengthens with biotin, zinc, and omegas
Smooths static
Strong scent
Sulfate-Free: No | Size: 13.5 oz. | Cruelty-Free: No | Hair Type: Curly, thin, straight | Scent: Mint and clove
This pick gets top honors for taking a two-pronged approach to thinning hair. First, it gently removes follicle-clogging impurities that can impede new hair growth. Then, it delivers a host of important nutrients—think biotin, zinc, and omegas—to strengthen the hair you have. So much so that, when used with the accompanying conditioner, it can reduce breakage by up to 95%. And when you’re already dealing with thinning, the less breakage, the better.
Byrdie contributor Leigh Weingus took this shampoo for a spin after experiencing postpartum hair loss, thinning, and general dullness. After using it, she notes that it not only left her hair shinier, fuller, and less staticky, but it also noticeably reduced the amount of shedding she had been experiencing. “I really, really loved this shampoo and can’t think of one bad thing to say about it,” she says.
Who It's For
We recommend this shampoo for people dealing with thinning hair or who are seeking more volume and stronger hair overall. If you prefer "clean" personal care products, you'll also appreciate that this formula is paraben-free, silicon-free, and vegan.
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Byrdie / Leigh Weingus
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Thickens hair with a proprietary complex
Strengthens with keratin and biotin
Works for all hair types and textures
May strip color-treated hair
Sulfate-Free: No | Size: 8.45 oz. | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Hair Type: Static-prone, dry | Scent: Botanical
Viviscal's oral hair supplement is a fan favorite, but we believe its topical products are just as deserving of a devoted following. Take this pick, for instance: It works well on all hair types and textures, can be used daily, and, along with strengthening ingredients like keratin and biotin, it also contains the brand's proprietary complex that's formulated to promote thicker strands. It gets bonus points for the fresh, botanical scent and reasonable price tag.
Makeup artist and Byrdie contributor Ashley Rebecca added the Viviscal shampoo to her daily wash routine, and she loved that it added volume to her hair without leaving it greasy. She said that with continued use, it left her hair looking thicker and shinier. She also added that it didn't matter whether she heat-styled or just applied product after washing, her hair had the same gorgeous sheen.
Who It's For
This is a great choice for those who are looking for a super clarifying option that will keep the scalp clean without leaving extra residue. We also recommend this product for fine hair types or those dealing with breakage, as it makes the hair stronger over time.
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Byrdie / Ashley Rebecca
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Thickens and strengthens curly hair types
Increases scalp circulation with castor oil
Hydrating
Thin and runny consistency
Sulfate-Free: Yes | Size: 13 oz. | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Hair Type: Curly, wavy, damaged | Scent: Peppermint
This ultra-hydrating shampoo is ideal for people with curly or coily hair who want to grow their strands thicker and stronger. It's also a great pick if you have hair that's been damaged from heat or protective styling. It includes apple cider vinegar, black castor oil, and peppermint in the formula to deeply cleanse the hair and remove built-up product, while the shea butter adds back in hydration—which is especially needed for drier hair types. We love that it helps retain length and thickness without sacrificing a squeaky clean, and that it uses natural ingredients that are beneficial to the scalp.
Who It's For
If you have curly or coily hair and often use a lot of products to style (or wash weekly or biweekly), this is a great choice to clear out buildup while promoting growth and thickness.
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Cleanses and repels dirt and oil
Gives body to fine, limp hair
Keeps the hair clean for longer
Can be drying
Sulfate-Free: Yes | Size: 8 oz. | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Hair Type: Fine, color-treated, chemically-treated | Scent: Light and refreshing
Whether your hair is naturally fine, you’re experiencing more shedding, or that dreaded combination of both, reach for this guy. The star of the show is a patented healthy hair molecule that Living Proof has specially formulated to efficiently and effectively remove residue and build-up. Less gunk and grime equals thicker, fuller hair. Plus, this molecule also repels dirt and oil, so hair stays cleaner, longer. We’re not mad about that.
Who It's For
We love this shampoo for those whose hair gets greasy easily since its clarifying formula can help extend the time between washes while adding volume and bounce.
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Imparts instant volume
Exfoliates scalp and hair
Light rose scent
Can be drying
Sulfate-Free: No | Size: 2.5 fl oz or 8.4 fl oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Hair Type: Fine | Scent: Rose
It admittedly takes a little bit of time to get used to this shampoo, given that it’s unlike any traditional liquid formula; you mix the paste with water, and it transforms into foam. But the volume-boosting results are well worth it. Rhassoul clay and sugar crystals deep-clean the scalp and strands, removing any trace of residue or oil that can weigh your hair down and leave it looking flat. Hot tip: It can sometimes make the lengths of your hair feel a bit dryer, so be sure to follow with a moisturizing conditioner.
Who It's For
If you're looking for a shampoo that can detoxify the scalp and has a mostly natural formula, this is the pick for you. Since it can be a little drying, we recommend it for hair types that don't need as much hydration.
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Improves scalp health with blend of botanicals
Works to strengthen and thicken the hair
A little goes a long way
Could be more hydrating
Sulfate-Free: Yes | Size: 12 oz. | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Hair Type: Curly | Scent: Rosemary mint
When it comes to thinning hair, you want to go for a product that targets the scalp first, and this rosemary mint shampoo does just that. The formula is infused with ingredients like biotin to fortify the hair and help it grow thicker and stronger. This shampoo has a cooling, soothing effect on application due to the peppermint oil in the formula—which is able to promote hair growth and thickness, balance oil, and calm inflammation. Plenty of botanical extracts, including rosemary, ginger, and chamomile, are also in the formula to improve the overall health of the hair. You'll also love that a little goes a long way, so you're getting your money's worth.
Who It's For
The peppermint in this product makes it a great choice for people who have dry, itchy scalps. We also love it for natural hair types, especially if you've been having stagnancy in growth and want a little boost.
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Contains anti-fungal ketoconazole
Fights chronic dandruff that causes shedding
Rich, thick lather
Small amount of product
Sulfate-Free: No | Size: 4 oz. | Cruelty-Free: No | Hair Type: All | Scent: Fresh
It may not seem like the most obvious connection, but untreated, chronic dandruff may be linked to unwanted shedding. The active ingredient in this pick, ketoconazole, is an “anti-fungal and anti-yeast medication that has been shown, when taken systemically, to disrupt the action of DHT,” says board-certified dermatologist Jeremy Fenton, MD, of Schweiger Dermatology Group in New York City. DHT (dihydrotestosterone) is a hormone that can affect the hair follicle, leading to thinning hair.
“When using this shampoo, let it sit for two to three minutes on the scalp before rinsing to get the most benefit,” Fenton suggests. Another perk is that the shampoo has a great lather that leaves your hair feeling clean and refreshed. Fewer flakes and thicker hair? Yes, please.
Who It's For
If you suspect that your itchy, flaky scalp is impacting your hair health and growth, we recommend giving the Nizoral shampoo a try. We love that it works well for all hair types.
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Contains salicylic acid to control excess scalp oil
Keratin complex improves strength
Gentle enough to use daily
Doesn’t lather very well
Sulfate-Free: Yes | Size: 8.5 fl oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Hair Type: All | Scent: Subtle
This is a true multitasking shampoo that not only gently cleanses but also boosts thickness, strengthens hair, and helps keep your scalp healthy. Keratin and wheat protein improve hair elasticity and strength, while salicylic acid helps balance any excess oil on the scalp and prevents the build-up of dead skin cells. FYI, it’s sulfate-free, so it may not lather as much as you’re used to.
Who It's For
If you're looking for a shampoo that can improve the overall health of your scalp and hair, this is the one for you.
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Contains saw palmetto to control dandruff and detox scalp
Anti-fungal formula deters yeast growth
Small amount of product for each
Sulfate-Free: Yes | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Hair Type: All | Scent: Varies
The products in this total hair-care system are medically reviewed and contain numerous ingredients that can improve the condition of the scalp and hair follicles. A multi-pronged approach is the most effective way to target hair loss, and this three-part system makes it easy to do just that. Start with the detoxifying shampoo, which boasts ingredients like saw palmetto, a natural DHT blocker. Follow it with the fortifying conditioner that hydrates and strengthens, and finish with the brand’s hero product, a leave-on activating serum that stimulates circulation, strengthens hair, balances oil production, and deters yeast growth (which can cause buildup and block healthy hair growth).
Who It's For
Serious about improving your hair condition or experiencing a worrying amount of shedding? A complete system like this one could be your best bet for transforming the health of your hair for the better. It's on the pricier end, but you may find the results are totally worth the expense.
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Botanical blend formula reduces breakage
Includes caffeine for increased circulation
Removes buildup
Strong scent
Sulfate-Free: No | Size: 8.5 fl oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Hair Type: All | Scent: Herbal
True to its name, this formula helps to reduce breakage so you can preserve more of the hair you do have. We also appreciate that it’s an exfoliating formula to help cleanse follicle-clogging residue and touts caffeine to help boost circulation on the scalp.
Who It's For
For people who are experiencing hair loss or thinning that's potentially due to a build-up of product on the scalp: this shampoo is for you. With its exfoliating ingredients, you'll be able to let your scalp breathe and make room for new growth.
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Works for all hair types
Repairs and strengthens bonds in the hair
Reduces breakage and static
Could be more hydrating
Sulfate-Free: Yes | Size: 8.5 fl oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Hair Type: All | Scent: N/A
It's no secret that Olaplex shampoos are a godsend for brittle, damaged hair, but this product also makes a great choice for those who are dealing with hair loss or thinning. That's because it's formulated with the brand's signature bond-building technology that's able to repair and strengthen for healthier hair overall. With continued use, it'll make the hair look thicker and shinier, with less static and split ends.
Who It's For
Olaplex is genuinely a great pick for everyone because it's efficient on all hair types and textures, cleanses well, and reduces damage. We think it's especially beneficial for those who consistently heat-style or chemically process their hair, as it strengthens from the source.
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Botanical blend of plant-based oils and vegan silk proteins create volume
Naturally derived bergamot scent
Instantly adds shine
Doesn't lather that well
Sulfate-Free: Yes | Size: 8 fl oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Hair Type: All | Scent: Bergamot
The star of the show here is a vegan silk protein that bonds instantly to hair—and even stays put post-rinsing—making strands look and feel noticeably thicker. And while it gives your hair that instant boost and lift, it also works overtime to help make hair look fuller within three to four months. Plus, it contains a trio of plant-based oils to help impart plenty of softness and smoothness. Those who color their hair will also appreciate that it’s free of sulfates and super gentle.
Who It's For
If you color your hair regularly, a protein treatment is a must—so this vegan protein-infused shampoo is perfect if you're experiencing hair loss as well. We also recommend this for those who look for that squeaky clean feeling after washing their hair, as the exfoliating formula can remove built-up product.
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Won't strip color while cleansing
Great smell
Thickens hair and revitalizes the scalp
Not great for clarifying product build-up
Sulfate-Free: Yes | Size: 10.1 fl oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Hair Type: All | Scent: Lemon, basil, and fir
Another option if you have colored hair is this pick from Paul Mitchell, which has tea tree oil and pea peptides to nourish and treat the scalp while promoting thicker, fuller hair. It's also formulated with the brand's botanical blend that's engineered to stop hair loss in its tracks. We love that it makes the hair-washing experience more enjoyable with its lovely scent, which includes notes of lemon, basil, and vanilla.
Who It's For
If you want to use a shampoo that can cleanse without making your hair color dull, this is a great pick. It's also perfect for those who want more volume in their hair, as well as stronger strands.
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Contains Alpha Keratin to address hair thinning
Sodium hyaluronate and red algae strengthen hair
Works nicely for all hair textures
Can be drying
Sulfate-Free: Yes | Size: 8 fl oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Hair Type: All | Scent: Herbal
This celebrity-loved hair care brand is known for its proprietary ingredient, Alpha Keratin 60Ku, which is a combo of two different keratin proteins that repair damage and bolster elasticity to help reduce breakage and fallout. It’s the star of the show, but this shampoo also contains peptides that promote scalp health, as well as red algae to seal moisture into the hair. We also appreciate that it suds up nicely, even though it’s sulfate-free. FYI, your hair will look and feel better after just one wash, but give it three to four months to see the full effects.
Who It's For
Some strengthening formulas can wreak havoc on the scalp, but this is a gentle formula—making it perfect for those with a sensitive scalp.
What to Look For in a Shampoo for Thinning Hair
- Strengthening ingredients: When you’re already dealing with thinning hair, you want to prevent breakage as much as possible. To do this, give your mane a strengthening boost with ingredients like biotin, keratin, and zinc. “Biotin improves the internal structure of the hair, which can help to prevent snapping and breaking,” says Federico. Using a shampoo that's formulated to make hair more resilient means you'll experience less breakage and fallout.
- Healthy oils: If your hair is dried out, nourishing plant oils can help replenish moisture loss and prevent breakage. “Coconut oil promotes scalp health and helps prevent splitting and breakage,” explains Federico. These oils can be especially helpful if your hair is thinning out due to damage from chemical treatments or dyes.
- Sulfate-free formulas: Sulfates can be drying and strip hair of its natural oils, which can potentially cause even more breakage. Due to this, avoiding sulfates as much as possible will help prevent more breakage and help prevent dryness. Make sure any shampoo for hair loss that you purchase says sulfate-free in the description online or on the bottle's label.
Why Trust Byrdie
Byrdie contributor Melanie Rud has over a decade of experience in the beauty industry, writing for some of the biggest magazines and websites out there. For this roundup, she considered dozens of top-rated shampoos for thinning hair, evaluating each on their formula, active ingredients, and targeted results.
She combined her research with insights from our product testers and interviewed five board-certified dermatologists for their recommendations. Those experts include:
- Suneel Chilukuri, MD, a board-certified and internationally recognized expert on cosmetic and reconstructive surgery practicing out of Houston.
- Jeremy Fenton, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group in New York City.
- Adam Federico, a hairstylist and the vice president of creative development for R + Co.
- Neil Sadick, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Sadick Dermatology in New York City.
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