19 Best & Proven Shampoos For Hair Thinning In 2024

Losing hair is common, but it can be distressing to notice your hair becoming thinner or falling out more than usual.

In such cases, hair growth shampoos can be a valuable addition to your hair care routine, especially when combined with other products designed for thin or oily hair.

Surprisingly, a genetic test called Fagron Tricho Test has found that hair loss affects 40% of women at some point in their lives. No wonder there are over 8,000 monthly Google searches for "hair loss in women" in the UK alone.

However, it's essential to remember that shampoos for thinning hair or hair loss can only help make your hair look thicker and fuller, but they cannot magically reverse hair loss. Sadly, there is no shampoo for hair growth, either. 

But don't lose hope just yet, as a good shampoo can still make your hair look and feel bouncy and voluminous.

So keep reading this article to learn about the 19 best and proven shampoos for hair thinning that can help.

What are the best hair-thinning shampoos in 2023?

Our team invested extensive research hours in discovering the most effective shampoos for hair thinning and hair loss.

We went the extra mile and tested several highly-rated products at home for several weeks, carefully observing how each formula tackled hair fallout and improved overall hair thickness, fullness, and strength.

Here is a comparison table for the best 19 hair-thinning shampoos:

1. Scandinavian Biolabs Hair Strength Shampoo

Hair Strength Shampoo by Scandinavian Biolabs is a premium hair care product with naturally inspired ingredients to help promote healthy and strong hair.

The formula features a natural compound called Capilia Longa (Curcumin), shown in studies to reduce hair loss by up to 89% and improve hair density by 52% after 150 days. 

Additionally, the amino acid complex in the formula supports overall hair shaft integrity, helping to strengthen the hair from within.

This shampoo also contains Niacinamide, an iso-form of Vitamin B3, which increases keratin levels in the hair shaft. 

This shampoo's blend of ingredients helps reduce excessive sebum and rebalance the scalp, resulting in vibrant, fresh and healthy-looking hair.

The shampoo has a pleasant eucalyptus aroma, making it a refreshing and invigorating choice for your daily hair care routine.

Pros:

• Enhances hair strength and vibrancy
• Helps reduce excessive sebum and rebalance the scalp
• Contains natural compounds and amino acid complexes for stronger hair

Cons:

• Results may take time to show

2. Biolage Advanced Full Density Thickening Shampoo

The Biolage Advance Full Density Thickening Shampoo takes a dual approach to combat thinning hair. It cleanses the scalp of impurities that can block hair growth, delivering essential nutrients like biotin, zinc, and a glucose-omega blend to strengthen existing hair. 

When paired with the matching conditioner, it can reduce breakage by up to 95%, especially for those with thinning hair. In addition to its hair-strengthening benefits, it also fights frizz.

However, some users may find the scent too strong. This shampoo is an excellent choice for those looking to strengthen and protect their hair against breakage.

Pros:

• Removes follicle-clogging impurities
• Strengthens with biotin, zinc, and a glucose-omega blend
• Fights frizz

Cons:

• Strong scent

Shop now

3. Dr Barbara Sturm Anti-Hair Fall Shampoo

This brand, known for its successful skincare products, has now expanded into the haircare world with the same dedication to transformation and treatment. 

The Anti-hair fall shampoo is specifically formulated to nourish the scalp and strengthen strands, which can help prevent hair loss and promote volume and thickness. With continued use, hair becomes more resilient and less prone to breakage, resulting in healthier-looking locks. 

This product is worth a try for those seeking a reputable brand that treats and improves hair health.

Pros:

• Strengthens hair strands
• Boosts volume and thickness
• Comes in sleek packaging

Cons:

• Expensive price point

Shop now

4. Viviscal Gorgeous Growth Densifying Shampoo

This brand's hair supplement has a cult following, and its shampoo is just as impressive. Suitable for all hair types and textures, the Vivisical Gorgeous Hair Growth Densifying Shampoo is formulated with strengthening ingredients such as keratin, biotin, collagen and zinc and the brand's proprietary Ana: Tel complex, which helps promote thicker hair. 

The botanical scent is refreshing, and the price is affordable. However, it may strip colour-treated hair, which could be a downside for some.

Pros:

• Suitable for all hair types and textures
• Contains strengthening ingredients like keratin, biotin, and zinc
• Affordable price tag
• Fresh, botanical scent

Cons:

• May strip colour-treated hair
• Not sulphate-free

Shop now

5. VIRTUE Flourish Shampoo for Hair Thinning

This innovative shampoo by Virtue, developed from regenerative medicine, contains two keratin proteins and focuses on scalp fertility and fibre survival. The line also includes a conditioner and a density booster spray to nourish the microbiome and strengthen the moisture barrier. 

Regular use can clear follicles and stimulate hair follicles, creating a healthy scalp environment to encourage healthy hair growth. Despite its high price, this shampoo is a wise investment for those looking to improve the health and vitality of their thin and frizzy hair undergoing thinning and hair loss.

Pros:

• Safe for chemically treated or coloured hair
• Creates a healthy environment for hair growth

Cons:

• Expensive

Shop now

6. SheaMoisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen & Restore Shampoo

This hydrating SheaMoisture shampoo is ideal for those with curly hair who want to encourage healthy hair growth and promote thicker, stronger strands. It's also an excellent choice for those with heat-damaged or protected hair. 

Users claim they can maintain length and thickness while achieving a clean scalp. However, the thin and runny consistency may only be suitable for some.

Pros:

• Thickens and strengthens curly or kinky hair
• Increases scalp circulation with castor oil
• Provides deep hydration
• Sulphate-free

Cons:

• Thin and runny formula

Shop now

7. L'Oreal Elvive Fibrology Fine Hair Thickening Shampoo

This shampoo contains a patented ingredient that can penetrate deeply into the hair fibres, which helps to expand and increase the diameter of each hair, giving the appearance of thicker hair over time. 

Although the packaging may be less aesthetically pleasing, it is an affordable option for those looking to increase the thickness of their hair.

Pros:

• Expands hair from within
• Affordable

Cons:

• Unattractive packaging

Shop now

8. Living Proof Full Shampoo

This shampoo by Living Proof is a game-changer for those with fine or thinning hair. Its patented molecule profoundly cleanses and removes build-up, making hair feel thicker and fuller, thus combating hair loss. 

Additionally, the molecule repels dirt and oil, so hair stays cleaner for longer. However, the formula can be drying, so it may not be suitable for those with dry hair or damaged hair. Overall, it's an excellent pick for anyone looking to boost volume and keep their locks fresh between washes.

Pros:

• Patented molecule cleanses and prevents dirt and oil
• Gives the body to fine, limp hair
• Keeps hair cleaner for longer

Cons:

• It can leave a dry scalp

Shop now

9. Kérastase Genesis Bain Hydra-Fortifiant Shampoo

Kérastase developed a new range specifically designed to tackle hair fall and hair loss, which is a common issue among women. One of the essential products in the field is this fibre-strengthening, hydra-fortified shampoo, enriched with nourishing ingredients to help minimise the risk of breakage and hair loss. 

The hair growth shampoo range also includes complementary conditioners, masks, scalp treatments, and in-salon options. When used together, users reported a significant reduction in hair fall due to breakage, with an impressive 84% improvement.

Pros:

• Effective at reducing hair fall and breakage
• Comprehensive range to tackle hair loss 

Cons:

• Relatively expensive

Shop now

10. Christophe Robin Delicate Volumizing Shampoo

Christophe Robin's Delicate Volumizing Shampoo is a luxurious and gentle formula specifically designed to provide body and volume to fine, limp hair. Enriched with rose extracts and baobab leaf, it nourishes and hydrates the hair while adding lift and thickness. Suitable for both men and women, this shampoo helps to reduce hair fall and promotes a healthy scalp with regular use.

Despite its nourishing properties, some users might find it less moisturizing than expected, so pairing it with a hydrating conditioner is recommended. The subtle rose fragrance adds a pleasant sensory experience during use.

Pros:

• Boosts volume and thickness for fine, limp hair
• Infused with nourishing rose extracts and baobab leaf
• Gentle formula suitable for daily use

Cons:

• Might be less moisturizing than expected for some users

Shop now

11. Pantene Sulphate-free Shampoo with Rice Water

The Rice water Shampoo features Pro-V nutrient blends, which have been tested by the Swiss Vitamin Institute.

This shampoo can reduce hair loss by preventing breakage caused by daily wear and tear and styling. It's a practical choice for those with thinning and dyed hair and won't break the bank.

Pros:

• Affordable
• Helps prevent breakage
• Safe for colour-treated hair

Cons:

• Not the most attractive packaging

Shop now

12. Mielle Rosemary Mint Strengthening Shampoo

Thinning hair needs special attention, and this rosemary mint shampoo is an excellent choice for targeting the scalp. Packed with nourishing botanicals, it improves scalp health and promotes hair growth. 

Biotin is included to strengthen and thicken hair strands. Another advantage is that you don't need to use much of it for a thorough wash, making it an economical choice. However, be aware that it can be drying for some hair types.

Pros:

• Boosts scalp health with natural botanicals 
• Contains biotin for strength and thickness 
• Economical, a little goes a long way

Cons:

• Can cause dryness

Shop now

13. Philip Kingsley Body Building Weightless Shampoo

The Body Building Weightless Shampoo is designed to give you movie-star volume and shine. This volumising shampoo is perfect for delicate, limp, flat, and flyaway hair, adding bounce, lift, and volume to your locks. 

Formulated with keratin and carefully selected volumising ingredients, it boosts limp hair and leaves it looking fuller and thicker. Moreover, this gentle cleansing shampoo can be used daily, making fine hair manageable and easy to style. 

It contains natural cellulose and collagen that plumps and thickens each strand, making it perfect for those looking for maximum volume.

Pros:

• Adds volume and shine
• Controls flyaways

Cons:

• It can be a little more expensive

Shop now

14. Evolis Professional Reverse Shampoo

If you're looking for a shampoo that does more than just cleanse, this multitasking Reverse Shampoo by Evolis might be the perfect fit. It contains salicylic acid to balance excess oil production on the scalp while improving hair thickness and strength with the help of a keratin complex and wheat protein. 

It's gentle enough to use daily but sulphate-free and may not produce as much lather as traditional shampoos.

Pros:

• Contains salicylic acid for controlling excessive scalp oil
• Keratin complex improves strength
• Gentle enough to use daily

Cons:

• Doesn't lather very well

Shop now

15. Aveda Invati Exfoliating Shampoo

The Aveda Invati Exfoliating Shampoo has been clinically proven to remove sebum and product build-up that can clog pores and damage healthy hair. 

It contains pure plant and flower extracts, including millet seed and milk thistle extracts that nourish dry and tight scalps, while wintergreen-derived salicylic acid cleanses, exfoliates, and renews the scalp, restoring the lipid balance. 

Pros:

• Promotes a healthy scalp by exfoliating
• Comes in attractive packaging

Cons:

• Slightly pricier than other options

Shop now

16. Nanogen Thickening Treatment Shampoo

If you are looking for an instant hair-thickening solution. This thickening treatment shampoo by Nanogen is infused with hyaluronic acid that plumps and adds volume to each strand, giving an appearance of fuller and thicker hair from the first wash. 

The gentle formula also exfoliates the scalp, leaving it healthy and refreshed. Plus, the fresh berry fragrance is a delightful bonus. All of this comes at an affordable price and in sleek packaging.

Pros:

• Affordable
• Sleek packaging
• Refreshing berry fragrance

Cons:

• May not provide long-term thickening effects

Shop now

17. Collective Laboratories Detox Shampoo for Thinning Hair

Collective Laboratories' Detoxifying Shampoo is a natural and powerful daily regimen for healthy hair growth. This shampoo contains palmetto extract, a natural DHT-blocker that helps maintain and protect hair fullness, and lilac stem cells, which stimulate hair at the root while sealing and repairing damaged strands. 

The shampoo detoxifies the hair and scalp of chemical residue and build-up caused by other hair products, making it gentle enough for daily use. This sulphate-free, paraben-free, vegan, gluten-free, and cruelty-free shampoo protects against environmental pollution. 

Pros:

• Uses active botanicals to detox and cleanse without stripping moisture
• Protects against environmental pollution
• Free from sulphates, parabens, and cruelty

Cons:

• Takes time to see the results

Shop now

18. Bumble and Bumble Full Potential Hair Preserving Shampoo

This hair-preserving shampoo by Bumble and Bumble helps reduce breakage with a blend of botanicals and exfoliates the scalp with caffeine to remove residue that can clog hair follicles. However, it does contain sulphates and has a strong scent.

Pros:

• Reduces breakage with a botanical blend formula
• Exfoliates scalp with caffeine
• Unisex

Cons:

• Contains sulphates
• Strong scent

Shop now

19. Sachajuan Thickening Shampoo

This bodifying shampoo is designed to deeply cleanse fine hair, promoting a fuller finish. In addition to its volumising properties, it protects against damaging environmental radicals and heat styling, leaving hair shiny and full.

However, the smaller bottle size may only suit those who go through shampoo slowly.

Pros: 

• Affordable 
• Sleek packaging 
• Protects against damaging environmental radicals and heat styling

Cons: 

• Smaller bottle size

Shop now

What ingredients to look for when choosing a hair-thinning shampoo?

When choosing a shampoo to treat thinning hair, it's essential to look for specific ingredients that have been shown to stimulate hair growth and thickness. Some of the key elements to look for include the following:

Biotin

Biotin, also known as vitamin H, is a B-complex vitamin that is crucial in promoting hair growth and overall health. It helps strengthen hair follicles and improves the hair's elasticity, which reduces the risk of breakage.

Caffeine

Caffeine is a stimulant that can help increase blood flow to the scalp, thus promoting healthy hair growth. It also has antioxidant properties that can help protect hair follicles from damage caused by free radicals.

Niacin

Niacin, or vitamin B3, is a water-soluble vitamin that helps improve blood circulation and oxygen flow to the hair follicles. This promotes healthy hair growth and can even help prevent hair loss. You can find this effective ingredient in the Hair Strength Shampoo by Scandinavian Biolabs.

Saw Palmetto

Saw palmetto is a natural DHT blocker that can help prevent hair loss caused by hormonal imbalances. DHT, or dihydrotestosterone, contributes to hair loss in both males and females.

Keratin

Keratin is a natural protein found in hair, nails, and skin. It helps strengthen hair and prevent breakage by binding to the hair's cuticle and cortex.

Zinc

Zinc is an essential mineral that is crucial in promoting hair growth and overall health. It helps regulate sebum production, which can help prevent scalp issues such as dandruff and inflammation.

Argan oil

Argan oil is derived from the nuts of the argan tree and is rich in vitamin E and other antioxidants. It can help promote hair growth by nourishing and moisturising the hair, reducing breakage and split ends.

Tea tree oil

Tea tree oil is an antifungal and antibacterial natural agent that can help prevent scalp infections and promote healthy hair growth. It can also help soothe an itchy or irritated scalp.

Peppermint oil

Peppermint oil has a cooling effect on the scalp and can help stimulate blood flow to the hair follicles. This promotes healthy hair growth and can even help prevent hair loss.

Amino acids

Amino acids are the building blocks of protein, making up most of our hair. Adding amino acids to a hair-thinning shampoo can help strengthen the hair and promote growth.

Curcumin

Curcumin is a natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant ingredient that can help reduce scalp inflammation and promote healthy hair growth. It can also help prevent hair loss by blocking the effects of DHT.

Conclusion

Having gained knowledge about shampoos for thinning hair, it's time to make an informed decision and select the right formula that works best for you. However, keep in mind that while these shampoos have proven effective for many, they may only work for some. 

If you do not see any noticeable results after using a recommended product for a while, consider seeking advice from a dermatologist or doctor for further evaluation.

FAQs

Do shampoos for thinning hair actually work?

Shampoos for thinning hair can effectively promote hair growth and prevent hair loss when used consistently over time. However, results may vary depending on the individual and the specific cause of their hair loss. It's essential to use a shampoo formulated with ingredients known to promote hair health and growth, such as biotin, caffeine, and niacin.

Is dry shampoo bad for thinning hair?

Using dry shampoo excessively can be bad for thinning hair, leading to build-up on the scalp that can clog hair follicles and prevent healthy hair growth. It's essential to use dry shampoo sparingly and wash your hair regularly to avoid any build-up. Choosing a dry shampoo explicitly formulated for thinning hair and scalp health is also a good idea.

Can hair loss shampoos cause any side effects? 

It depends on the ingredients in the shampoo. Some people may experience scalp irritation or dryness from certain elements. Reading the label and doing a patch test before using any new hair loss shampoo is essential.

Can using hair loss shampoos alone prevent hair loss? 

It's unlikely that using a hair loss shampoo alone will prevent hair loss. Hair loss can have many underlying causes, such as genetics, hormonal changes, and medical conditions. However, using a hair loss shampoo as part of a comprehensive treatment plan recommended by a dermatologist or healthcare professional can help slow down hair loss and promote hair growth.

References:

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5582478/
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8536842/
3. https://www.karger.com/Article/Fulltext/508228

Read more:

• Scandinavian Biolabs, Rogaine, and Keeps: An In-Depth Look
• Does Vaping Cause Hair Loss? Here's What You Need To Know
• Rosemary Oil For Hair: Benefits, Side Effects & Usage