Are There Any Hair Growth Products That Work?

WrittenbyDr. Edna Skopljak, M.D.
Last updated

Hair loss and thinning hair can be a frustrating and often emotionally distressing experience for many individuals. The desire to regain a full, luscious head of hair has fueled a booming industry filled with countless hair growth products, each claiming to be the ultimate solution. However, amidst this overwhelming sea of options, a crucial question arises: Are there any hair growth products that genuinely work?

Are there any hair growth products that work?

Yes, there are several hair growth products that have been scientifically proven to be effective in promoting hair growth and slowing down hair loss. However, it's important to note that the effectiveness of these products can vary depending on the individual's specific hair loss condition, as well as factors like genetics, age, and overall health.

FDA-approved hair growth products

The following hair growth products have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and have undergone rigorous clinical testing to demonstrate their efficacy:

  1. Minoxidil (Rogaine): Minoxidil is a topical solution or foam that is widely regarded as one of the most effective hair growth products on the market. It works by increasing blood flow to the hair follicles and prolonging the growth phase of the hair cycle. Minoxidil is available in 2% and 5% concentrations for women and men, respectively.
  2. Finasteride (Propecia): This oral medication is approved for use in men with male pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia). It works by blocking the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that contributes to hair loss. Finasteride has been shown to be effective in promoting hair regrowth and preventing further hair loss.

Non-FDA approved but promising hair growth products

While not officially approved by the FDA for hair growth, several other products and treatments have shown promising results in clinical studies and anecdotal reports:

  1. Low-level laser therapy (LLLT): Also known as red light therapy, LLLT involves exposing the scalp to low-intensity laser light, which is believed to stimulate hair follicles and promote hair growth. Several studies have demonstrated the potential benefits of LLLT, particularly when combined with other hair growth treatments.
  2. Hair growth supplements: Certain vitamins, minerals, and nutrients like biotin, iron, zinc, and vitamin D have been linked to healthy hair growth. While the effectiveness of supplements may vary, they can be beneficial for individuals with deficiencies or as an adjunct to other hair growth treatments.
  3. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy: This innovative treatment involves injecting the patient's own platelet-rich plasma into the scalp, with the goal of stimulating hair follicles and promoting hair growth. While more research is needed, some studies have shown promising results with PRP therapy for various types of hair loss.

Factors affecting the effectiveness of hair growth products

It's important to note that the effectiveness of hair growth products can be influenced by several factors, including:

  • Type of hair loss: Different hair loss conditions may respond better to certain products. For example, minoxidil and finasteride are primarily effective for androgenetic alopecia (male or female pattern baldness), but may not be as beneficial for other types of hair loss, such as alopecia areata or telogen effluvium.
  • Genetics: Individuals with a strong genetic predisposition to hair loss may experience more limited results from hair growth products.
  • Age and hormonal factors: Hormonal changes associated with aging or conditions like menopause can affect the response to certain hair growth treatments.
  • Consistency and proper use: Many hair growth products require consistent, long-term use (several months to a year or more) to see noticeable results. Proper application and following instructions are also crucial for optimal effectiveness.

Consulting with a professional

If you're experiencing significant hair loss or thinning hair, it's advisable to consult with a dermatologist or a trichologist (a hair and scalp specialist). They can help identify the underlying cause of your hair loss and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan, which may involve using one or more hair growth products in combination with other therapies or lifestyle changes.

Remember, hair growth is a complex process influenced by various factors, and finding an effective solution often requires patience, consistency, and a personalized approach. While there are hair growth products that have been proven to work, managing expectations and seeking professional guidance can help increase the chances of achieving desired results.

Why Consider Scandinavian Biolabs Hair Strength Shampoo?

Focus on Strength, Not Just Speed:

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Gentle Yet Effective:

This shampoo is formulated with naturally-derived ingredients to cleanse without stripping your hair. It helps balance your scalp's sebum production for a healthy foundation for hair growth.

Stronger, More Vibrant Hair:

By creating an optimal scalp environment, this shampoo promotes stronger, healthier hair that's less prone to hair thinning. This can indirectly contribute to the appearance of faster growth, as there's less hair loss.

Target the Right Product:

This shampoo focuses on strengthening hair and creating a healthy scalp for hair growth. If your primary concern is hair loss, Scandinavian Biolabs also offers a Bio-Pilixin® Activation Serum specifically designed to address that.

Hair Strength Shampoo | For Men
Hair Strength Shampoo | For Men
Gently removes excess oil for a balanced scalp
Hair Strength Shampoo | For Women
Hair Strength Shampoo | For Women
Gently removes excess oil for a balanced scalp

Read more:


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Dr. Edna Skopljak, M.D.

About the Writer

Edna Skopljak, MDUniversity of Ljubljana, Faculty of Medicine

Edna Skopljak, MD is a clinical doctor at the University Medical Center Ljubljana and a PhD candidate in Biomedicine at the University of Ljubljana. She combines clinical work with research and medical editing, bringing a clear, evidence-based lens to patient education. Previously, she held roles in the pharmaceutical sector (product management and chief medical officer) and served as a medical production editor for the journal Biomolecules and Biomedicine.

Dr. Skopljak’s publications span clinical topics, including urology and orthopedics. She has co-authored work affiliated with the Department of Orthopedic Surgery at University Medical Centre Ljubljana. She trained in medicine with early clinical experience in Slovenia, reflecting a long-standing focus on practical, patient-facing care.

She strictly follows our Editorial Standards: All medical statements are grounded in authoritative guidelines, FDA labels, and peer-reviewed studies, with clear distinction between approved treatments and adjunctive options.