Finding the best shampoos for fine hair involves choosing formulas that enhance volume and strength without weighing hair down. A volumizing shampoo adds body and lift, making fine hair appear fuller and more vibrant.
For a gentler option, sulfate-free shampoos cleanse without stripping natural oils, while a moisturizing shampoo hydrates fine hair without compromising volume, leaving it soft and shiny. If you’re health-conscious, paraben-free shampoos are an excellent choice as they avoid harsh chemicals that can damage delicate strands.
If you have color-treated fine hair, there are shampoos specifically designed to protect color and maintain vibrancy. Additionally, a clarifying shampoo can help remove buildup, ensuring your hair stays fresh and lightweight.
In this guide, we’ll explore top options like Scandinavian Biolabs Hair Strength Shampoo, and more, offering solutions for volume, hydration, and budget-friendly choices.
Table of content
How do our beauty editors rate?
To us, the best shampoos for fine strands:
- Strengthen strands and boost volume
- Gently cleanse and remove excess build-up
- Don't weigh hair down
And then, it must be:
- Highly-reviewed
- Clinically tested to thicken hair
- Approved by hair stylists
If it passed these criteria, they are a part of our list.
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What are the best shampoos for fine hair?
- Best shampoo for fine hair overall: Scandinavian Biolabs Hair Strength Shampoo
- Best for colour-treated hair: Pureology Clean Volume Shampoo
- Best to create volume: R+Co DALLAS Biotin Thickening Shampoo
- Best for fine & dry hair: Sisley Revitalizing Volumising Shampoo with Camellia Oil
- Best for fine & curly hair: Biolage Volume Bloom Shampoo
- Best lightweight formula: OUAI Fine Hair Shampoo
- Best two-in-one: Hairstory New Wash
- Best in your grocery store: L’Oréal Paris Botanicals Lavender Fine Hair Shampoo
- Best for hair cleansing: Act+Acre Cold Processed Hair Cleanse
1. Best shampoo for fine hair overall: Scandinavian Biolabs Hair Strength Shampoo
The formula is designed to support hair retention, encourage the look of new growth, and contribute to the overall condition of fine hair. This uses Capilia Longa that were extracted from turmeric with stem cell technology to feed hair follicles and encourage new growth.
The product is formulated to helps stop hair from getting thinner, supports the appearance of hair vitality, and contributes to the look of fuller, denser hair.
This shampoo is formulated for fine and damaged hair and aims to help improve the appearance of hair strands by cleansing excess oils and supporting scalp moisture.
Pros
- 100% drug-free, naturally-derived
- Clinically tested results
- No harmful side effects
- Healthier, stronger, and denser hair
- Exceptional price-to-quality ratio
Cons
- Tingling sensation from eucalyptus
2. Best for colour-treated hair: Pureology Clean Volume Shampoo
If you have fine hair and worry that using products on it would fade the colour, this might be the solution you've been looking for. Or if you're just looking to provide some hair thickening and keep your blonde hair healthy, this is one of the best options out there.
This Pureology Clean Volume Shampoo volumising shampoo is gentle enough for daily use and effective enough to remove buildup from the hair. This thickening shampoo is cruelty-free and made with natural cellulose to grow hair follicles to the tips.
Using this product, you can expect your coloured hair to retain its vibrancy and shine for longer, thanks to the shampoo's combination of aloe formula, soy protein, and an anti-fade complex.
Pros
- Multi-weight protein
- Includes natural extract
- Sulfate-free
- Silicon-free
- Vegan
Cons
- Can dry your hair out
3. Best to create volume: R+Co DALLAS Biotin Thickening Shampoo
Use R+Co DALLAS Biotin Thickening Shampoo if you have thin, limp hair and want to add volume. It's free of harsh chemicals like sulfates and parabens that can slow hair development while giving your hair a healthy shine, vibrant colour, and added thickness. This shampoo is best for thin and fragile hair.
It strengthens the keratin infrastructure of hair when applied to your hair and spreads through the middle, the roots, and the ends. This shampoo cleanses your scalp and provides a highly effective result for your hair development.
Compared to other shampoos, R+Co DALLAS Biotin Thickening Shampoo is in a league of its own. It's recognized as one of the most reliable hair-thickening shampoos on the market.
Pros
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
- Includes biotin
- Natural ingredients
Cons
- Contains silicone
- Smells revolting to some
4. Best for fine & dry hair: Sisley Revitalizing Volumising Shampoo with Camellia Oil
Even though fine hair is more likely to get greasy at the roots, it is still possible for the ends to remain dry. You can try Sisley Revitalizing Volumising Shampoo with Camellia Oil, loaded with vitamins and minerals like magnesium, zinc, and vitamins B5 and B6, to nurture and protect your hair and scalp if you need to add moisture. Camellia oil, used in this product, gives your hair a silky texture without adding excess weight.
Pros
- Includes camellia oil
- Smells great
- It contains vitamins and minerals
Cons
- Expensive
5. Best for fine & curly hair: Biolage Volume Bloom Shampoo
Curly hair are also susceptible to thinning, so investing in a high-quality shampoo from Biolage strengthens curls, revitalizes the scalp, and adds volume to fine hair is essential. Because it gives your hair a light shine, it makes your curls look better without making them flat. The result is curls that are bouncy, full, and delicate.
If you have thinning hair or flat hair and you want hair body-building shampoo for volume, try VolumeBloom. This shampoo was made with the expanding cotton blossom in mind. It gently cleans hair without stripping it, and it gives fine hair shine and volume while keeping it lightweight.
Pros
- Paraben free
- Silicon-free
- Vegan
- Weightless formula
Cons
- Contains sulfate
6. Best lightweight formula: OUAI fine hair shampoo
If you need help with your fine hair, OUAI haircare is the company to call. The OUAI Fine Hair Shampoo will revitalize your fine hair. Hydrolyzed keratin is one of the many vital elements in this formula, and it's responsible for silky smoothness. It restores the keratin in the hair follicle and helps control frizz.
Biotin's fortifying effects contribute to its ability to boost resistance to stress. Chia seed oil adds volume, and chia seed extract hydrates hair from the inside out.
The OUAI Fine Hair Shampoo adds body and thickness to your hair without weighing it down. It's effective on any hair type and rinses clean without leaving any residue.
Pros
- Phthalate-free
- Sulfate and paraben free
- Includes biotin
- Lightweight
Cons
- Smells strong
7. Best two-in-one: Hairstory New Wash
Wait wait wait. Before you call us heretics for recommending a two-in-one, hear us out.
Many of us are busy with our lives, or just couldn't care less about a meticulous regime to produce visibly plump strands.
It does not remove the natural oils in the hair or leave it dry and brittle, and it doesn't include any synthetic chemicals or detergents. Being a two-in-one solution (cleanser and conditioner), it requires no effort and is perfect for those who prefer less-intensive methods.
We know that washing your hair too frequently can damage the hair, but many people with fine hair can't wait. If you have very oily hair and find that cleaning it once a week isn't enough to eliminate the dirt and grime buildup, we recommend New Wash.
Pros
- No synthetic chemicals
- Shampoo+conditioner combo
- For all hair types
Cons
- It can make hair oily and greasier
- Low Trustpilot rating
8. Best in your grocery store: L’Oréal Paris Botanicals Lavender Fine Hair Shampoo
This L’Oréal Paris Botanicals Lavender Fine Hair Shampoo is formulated to specifically target the scalp, which calms and soothes from the roots up to create a solid foundation for thicker, stronger hair.
The essential oils of lavender, soy, and coconut oil give off moisturizing characteristics that protect the hair from drying out and looking dull.
The revitalizing and nourishing shampoo removes all the dirt and oil from the scalp and hair. This leaves hair shiny, smooth, and free of tangles.
Pros
- Most affordable
- Paraben free
- Sulfate-free
- Silicon free
- Vegan
Cons
- Some reviewers complained about the smell
9. Best for hair cleansing: Act+Acre Cold Processed Hair Cleanse
Use Act+Acre Cold Processed Hair Cleanse if you want your fine hair to develop to its full potential. It's very beneficial for fine hair because it helps nourish the developing process. The mixture has a lot of vitamins and antioxidants, like rosemary, which improves circulation in the scalp and helps repair damaged hair follicles.
This results in soft hair that can regrow naturally to be longer and stronger from the roots up. In addition, it has vetiver, lavender, and amaranth oil, which work together to stop hair breakage and protect the hair shaft from drying out.
Pros
- Gentle treatment
- Sulfate-free
- Includes baobab oil
- Petrolatum-free
- Vegan
Cons
- Contains phenoxyethanol
How to choose the right shampoo for your fine hair type
When choosing the shampoo for fine hair, it’s essential to consider your hair’s specific needs. Fine hair is often delicate and can struggle with volume, so the right shampoo should enhance volume, nourish, and strengthen without weighing it down. Here’s how to find the perfect shampoo for your fine hair type.
Understanding hair texture and porosity
Your hair’s texture and porosity are key factors when selecting the right shampoo. Fine hair can have either low or high porosity, which affects how it absorbs moisture. If you have low-porosity hair, opt for lightweight shampoos that won’t weigh your hair down. For high-porosity fine hair, choose a more moisturizing shampoo to help retain moisture and reduce frizz. Knowing your hair’s texture and porosity will guide you to the best shampoo for fine hair that enhances its natural volume.
Identifying specific hair concerns
Identifying your fine hair concerns is important in choosing the right product. If your fine hair tends to get oily, consider a clarifying shampoo to remove buildup and keep your scalp fresh. For color-treated fine hair, look for shampoos that protect and preserve your color while adding volume. If you’re dealing with dry or damaged fine hair, choose a moisturizing shampoo that hydrates without compromising volume or weight.
Ingredient considerations
Ingredients are a crucial factor when selecting a shampoo for fine hair. If you want a gentler option, sulfate-free shampoos are ideal as they cleanse without stripping natural oils. Paraben-free shampoos are a great choice if you’re looking for a cleaner, more natural formulation. Additionally, shampoos with biotin, keratin, or essential oils help strengthen and revitalize fine hair, addressing concerns like breakage or lack of volume.
Brand reputation and reviews
Brand reputation and customer reviews can help you make an informed choice. Choose brands known for creating high-quality shampoos specifically for fine hair. Reading customer reviews will give you insights into how the product performs for others with similar fine hair concerns. Brands with a strong reputation in the fine hair care market often offer formulas that cater to volume, hydration, and overall hair health.
What ingredients to use?
If you want to add some volume to your fine hair but need help knowing where to start, there are a lot of different ingredients you may seek. Choose formulas containing vitamin B5, vitamin B12, zinc, collagen, niacin, essential amino acids, polymers, biotin, or hyaluronic acid. Botanicals such as:
- ginseng
- stinging nettle
- pumpkin seed oil
- turmeric
- ginger
What ingredients to avoid?
What should not be included in a hair thickening product is as crucial as what to have. Avoiding silicones is better if you have fine hair. You should also avoid mineral oil, triclosan, parabens, sodium lauryl sulfate, and other similar compounds. Although they aren't necessarily bad for everyone, they can make thin hair even thinner, so if the volume is what you want, you should avoid them.
How to use shampoo for fine hair effectively
To get the most out of your shampoo for fine hair, it's important to apply the right techniques to maintain volume and strength without damaging your delicate strands. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use shampoo effectively for fine hair.
Pre-wash preparation
Before you shampoo, it's a good idea to brush your hair to remove tangles and detangle knots. This helps the shampoo distribute evenly through your hair. If you have oily fine hair, consider pre-washing with a dry shampoo to absorb excess oil and give your hair a bit of texture. If your scalp tends to be dry, you may also want to apply a light scalp treatment before washing to ensure your scalp gets the hydration it needs.
Choosing the right amount
The amount of shampoo you use depends on the length and thickness of your hair. For fine hair, start with a small amount—usually about a quarter-sized amount. You can always add more if needed. Avoid using too much product, as it can weigh hair down, making it look limp. Opt for a volumizing shampoo that works with your hair’s texture to lift and add body.
Application techniques
When applying shampoo, focus on the scalp rather than the hair ends. The scalp tends to accumulate the most oil and product buildup, so massaging the shampoo into the scalp helps remove excess oil and keeps your roots fresh. Use gentle, circular motions with your fingertips, not your nails, to avoid causing damage to fine hair.
Rinsing properly
Make sure to thoroughly rinse your hair with lukewarm water after shampooing. Cold water can help seal the cuticle and lock in moisture, leaving your hair shiny and smooth. Avoid hot water as it can strip natural oils and make fine hair more prone to damage and dryness.
Frequency of washing
How often you wash your fine hair depends on your hair type and scalp’s oil production:
Oily Fine Hair
- Frequency: Wash every 1–2 days.
- Purpose: This helps control oil buildup and keeps hair feeling fresh and lightweight.
- Tip: Consider using a clarifying shampoo occasionally to remove product buildup, but avoid overusing it as it can be drying.
Dry Fine Hair
- Frequency: Wash every 2–3 days.
- Purpose: This allows natural oils to nourish the hair while preventing dryness.
- Tip: Opt for gentle, moisturizing shampoos and conditioners that hydrate without weighing hair down.
Normal Fine Hair
- Frequency: Wash every 2 days.
- Purpose: This strikes a balance between cleanliness and maintaining natural moisture.
- Tip: Use volumizing shampoos to enhance body and lift without stripping essential oils.
Common mistakes when caring for fine hair
Caring for fine hair requires specific strategies to maintain its health, volume, and strength. However, certain mistakes can undermine your efforts, leaving your hair limp, damaged, or difficult to manage. Avoid these common missteps when caring for your delicate strands.
Over-washing or under-washing
Finding the right balance for washing is critical for fine hair. Over-washing can strip the hair of essential oils, leaving it dry and prone to breakage. On the other hand, under-washing can lead to buildup and weigh down fine hair, making it look flat. Adjust your washing frequency based on your hair type—oily hair may need washing every 1–2 days, while dry or normal hair can go 2–3 days.
Using heavy products
Heavy styling products like creams, waxes, or rich conditioners can weigh down fine hair, making it look limp and greasy. Instead, opt for lightweight, volumizing shampoos and conditioners designed to enhance body and lift. Always apply conditioner sparingly, focusing on the ends rather than the roots.
Neglecting scalp health
Healthy hair starts with a healthy scalp. Neglecting scalp care can lead to oil buildup, dandruff, or clogged follicles, which can impact the growth and appearance of fine hair. Use a clarifying shampoo periodically to remove buildup and consider scalp treatments to ensure your roots stay healthy and clean.
Skipping heat protection
Fine hair is more susceptible to damage from heat styling tools like blow dryers, straighteners, or curling irons. Skipping heat protection can lead to split ends and breakage. Always use a lightweight heat protectant spray before styling to shield your hair from high temperatures.
Ignoring seasonal changes
Seasonal changes can affect the needs of fine hair. In colder months, hair tends to become drier, requiring extra hydration through a moisturizing shampoo or leave-in conditioner. During humid summers, focus on lightweight products to prevent your hair from becoming greasy or weighed down. Adapting your hair care routine to the weather can make a noticeable difference in maintaining healthy, voluminous fine hair.
What is fine hair?
The width of the hair strands, also known as their diameter, is the unit of measurement for the fine strand. When individual strands have narrower diameters, we refer to the hair as "fine hair." Finer hair is much thinner than other hair types. However, this has nothing to do with your hair's density.
Technically, fine hair lacks the medulla, the core component of the hair strand. Because of this, the diameter of each hair strand is significantly reduced. It's interesting to note that lighter hair colours, especially blondes, tend to have finer hair than darker hair. Here are some more traits of fine hair:
- It's smooth and silky
- Easy to straighten
- Lightweight
- Fragile and breakable
- It is challenging to retain hairstyles
These are also what the best hair loss shampoos for men and women can fix.
Conclusion
Fine hair, while delicate and unique, requires specialized care to maintain its health and volume. The market in 2023 offers a plethora of shampoos tailored to address the specific needs of fine hair, from enhancing volume to strengthening strands.
Whether you're looking for a product to protect color-treated hair, boost hydration, or simply cleanse without stripping natural oils, there's a shampoo on this list for you.
Remember to consider the ingredients that work best for fine hair and those to avoid to ensure you're making the best choice for your hair type.
With the right shampoo, you can transform your fine hair into a lustrous, voluminous mane that turns heads.
FAQs
What kind of shampoo is good for fine thin hair?
Shampoos that are specifically formulated for volumizing and strengthening are ideal for fine, thin hair. Look for products that contain ingredients like biotin, vitamin B5, and amino acids. It's also beneficial to choose shampoos that are free from heavy silicones and sulfates, as these can weigh down fine hair.
Can fine hair grow thicker?
Fine hair refers to the diameter of individual hair strands, and it's largely determined by genetics. While you can't change the natural thickness of individual strands, you can improve the overall density and health of your hair, making it appear fuller.
What causes fine hair?
Fine hair is primarily determined by genetics. However, other factors can contribute to hair thinning, such as lifestyle choices, recent life events like extreme weight loss or childbirth, and certain medical conditions.
How to increase hair volume?
To naturally boost hair volume:
- Use volumizing shampoos and conditioners.
- Blow-dry your hair upside down for added lift at the roots.
- Incorporate regular scalp massages to stimulate blood flow.
- Avoid heavy styling products that can weigh hair down.
- Maintain a healthy diet rich in vitamins and nutrients, especially those known to promote hair health.
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