These Shampoos Make Thin Hair Look Fuller, According to Dermatologists

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We updated this article in July 2023 to add more information about each featured product, based on extensive research done by our team.

Are you noticing that your hair is falling out more lately? You might be experiencing hair loss, which can be caused by hormonal changes, genetics, or even aging. “As we age, nutrient absorption of the body is weaker, thus hair strands become less pigmented, thinner, more brittle, and eventually many hair follicles stop producing new hairs,” explains Hope Mitchell M.D., board-certified dermatologist and founder of Mitchell Dermatology. Thankfully, the best shampoos for thinning hair can help you achieve fuller strands as well as a healthy scalp.

Specifically, shampoos that are formulated to amp up the volume and fullness of strands can make hair look thicker. “Volumizing shampoos and conditioners tend to contain ingredients that remove excess hair and scalp residue that may be weighing hair down, coat individual hairs to make them appear thicker, and temporarily increase the strength or rigidity of hair fibers in order to lift hair away from the scalp,” says Sam Ellis M.D., board-certified cosmetic dermatologist and clinical instructor of dermatology at the University of California.

Meet the experts: Hope Mitchell M.D.; Sam Ellis M.D., Oma Agbai, M.D.; and Marisa Garshick, M.D., F.A.A.D.

Now that you know what to look for, take the stress out of finding the best shampoo for your thin tresses with our list of expert-approved thinning hair shampoos.

Flourish Shampoo for Thinning Hair

This shampoo was praised by two doctors for its impressive ingredients. “This shampoo contains Virtue’s signature Alpha Keratin 60ku protein which has demonstrated an ability to increase the thickness of individual hair fibers and fortify hairs as they exit the scalp. It cleanses the hair shaft and clears debris from follicle openings, creating an environment for healthy growth,” says Dr. Ellis.

Marisa Garshick, M.D., F.A.A.D., board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology: Medical Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery and an assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Cornell NewYork-Presbyterian Medical Center, recommends this product because the Alpha and Gamma Keratin proteins and additional ingredients help hydrate hair without weighing it down. “It works to thicken the hair while helping to repair and volumize,” Dr. Garshick says. And if you dye your hair, this pick is perfect for you as it’s color-safe and paraben-free.

DermaCare Scalp Anti Dandruff Shampoo

Given its super affordable price and rave reviews, you just can’t beat a dermatologist-recommended dandruff shampoo that also helps reduce thinning hair. “It’s effective in keeping the hair hydrated and soft, prevents dryness on the scalp, removes flakes, relieves scalp irritation, and balances the pH of the hair,” says Dr. Mitchell.

EXT DENSITY Stimul8 Hair Loss Shampoo

“This pH-balanced shampoo contains DHT blockers, stimulates hair growth, and instantly thickens the hair,” says Reslan. “The pH works to clear away build-up in order to prepare the scalp to receive active ingredients from any topical that would follow,” she explains. It’s also formulated with a unique blend of aromatic essential oils that will help calm the scalp for a clean and refreshing experience, according to the brand.

Full Density Thickening Shampoo

“This contains biotin, zinc PCA, and a gluco-omega blend that cleanses the strands, while removing the impurities that clog the follicles, making the hair look healthy,” says Dr. Mitchell. Its anti-frizz formula also creates fuller-looking, thicker locks thanks to its biotin-packed ingredients.

évolis REVERSE Shampoo

“This shampoo has a proprietary blend of natural actives and antioxidants that accelerate hair growth and decrease fallout,” says Reslan. It also has a super-concentrated (and color-safe!) formula that includes keratin and wheat protein, good-for-you ingredients that work to improve the overall health of the hair and scalp.

Full Shampoo

“This uses Living Proof’s proprietary molecule, octafluoropentyl methacrylate, to repel excess oil and dirt from the hair which helps maintain volume by preventing the hair from getting weighed down between washes,” says Dr. Ellis.

Hair Thickening Shampoo

This shampoo was developed by experts to keep the follicles clean, while strengthening them to promote thicker-looking strands. “It contains biotin, green tea, caffeine, and saw palmetto that strengthens every strand, promotes keratin, and blocks DHT to improve growth and for healthier-looking hair,” says Dr. Mitchell.

Caviar Anti-Aging Clinical Densifying Shampoo

In a previous interview for Prevention, celebrity hairstylist Andrew Fitzsimons recommended this shampoo for anyone concerned about hair thinning. “It supports the reduction of DHT—a key contributor to hair loss—on the surface of the scalp and eliminates follicle-clogging dirt, excess sebum, and environmental residues, allowing healthier, thicker-looking hair to surface,” said Fitzsimons.

System 2 Cleanser Shampoo

With a 4.7-star rating and over 8,000 stellar reviews, this purifying shampoo is essential for your beauty cabinet. It works to deeply cleanse the scalp and plump up the strands, thanks to the brand’s exclusive formula. Among the ingredients, you’ll find peppermint oil, which helps to refresh the scalp. “I started using this when I noticed I was losing a ton of hair in the shower,” one reviewer said. “After 5 days of use my hair loss is down to nothing.”

Tea Tree Scalp Care Anti-Thinning Shampoo

“If oil builds up, you can end up with clogged hair follicles or dandruff, ” said Dendy Engelman, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon at Shafer Clinic in New York City, said in a previous interview for Prevention. That’s why she recommends this pick which contains a botanical blend of clover flower extract, pea peptides, turmeric, kakadu plum, and ginseng to cleanse and stimulate the scalp.

Full Potential Hair Preserving Shampoo & Conditioner

This shampoo offers long-term results by gradually strengthening the hair’s three structures: The scalp, roots, and mid-shaft to ends. It’s infused with a unique Hair Preserve Blend, that works to exfoliate and remove buildup. The brand also notes that it helps fragile hair stay fuller and stronger—for longer. Wrote one reviewer after trying it out, “My hair feels soft and strong and elastic. It’s so shiny too!”

Fine Shampoo

This cult-favorite brand created a shampoo that brings volume and thickness to those with fine and thin hair. The ingredients include keratin to build strength, biotin to provide nutrients, and chia seed to thicken and moisturize the hair. “Beautiful shampoo. It smells like roses and helps with thickening your hair,” wrote one satisfied Amazon customer.

Thick & Full + Biotin & Collagen Extra Strength Volumizing Shampoo

Judging by the 8,000+ 5-star ratings, reviewers think this shampoo is worth every penny. The formula is packed with biotin, collagen, and proteins to increase the volume of each follicle. It’s also safe to use on color-treated hair, thanks to its bamboo fiber extract ingredient.

Strengthen and Restore Shampoo for Damaged Hair

“This shampoo can help to strengthen and support hair growth, especially good for those who regularly color, straighten, perm, or heat-style their hair,” Dr. Garshick says. “It is formulated with Jamaican Black Castor Oil and Shea Butter to help strengthen damaged hair, and reduce breakage and the resultant shedding [to help] promote natural growth.”

Anti-Dandruff Shampoo with 1% Ketoconazole

Hair loss and thinning can be caused by unhealthy scalp conditions, such as dandruff, psoriasis, and fungal infections. Scratching a dry, itchy scalp can damage hair follicles, so it’s best to keep your scalp hydrated and healthy with dandruff-fighting products. “This antifungal shampoo that contains ketoconazole, while typically used for dandruff treatment, may also help to promote hair growth and reduce hair loss, which is thought to be related to an effect on DHT,” Dr. Garshick says. “For best results it should be used at least two-to-three times per week.”

Rosemary Mint Strengthening Shampoo

Your hair will look and smell fresh with this rosemary mint-infused shampoo. Not only is the scent great, research shows that rosemary oil and peppermint oil can stimulate the hair follicles to help you grow new hair. “Mielle Rosemary Mint Strengthening Shampoo is excellent!” one reviewer raved. “The scent is mild and comforting! I love the way it lathers and leaves my hair soft and shiny. It really is making my hair stronger and longer.”

Hydration Shampoo

Tracee Ellis Ross’ haircare line, Pattern Beauty, does not disappoint. This shampoo from the brand cleanses hair of any dirt and oil without stripping moisture. Instead, hair is left feeling hydrated, and your curls will look more enhanced and bouncy. “Impressed!” one customer wrote. “I waited a few weeks before writing this to see if there was an actual change and yes there was! My hair is a true 4C and it’s softer, more manageable, has much less breakage, and feels much healthier. My scalp also feels much less dry than usual. This is the first celebrity-created product that has far surpassed my expectations. The scent is a soft very natural floral.”

How to choose the best shampoo for thinning hair

Look for specific ingredients. Caffeine, green tea, pumpkin seed, and rosemary oil can all work to stimulate or strengthen the hair follicles to promote more hair growth, according to Dr. Mitchell. Reslan also recommends scanning the ingredient list for wheat and rice, which are good sources of protein that will help give shine and volume to your strands.

Note your hair type. Whether your hair is straight, curly, wavy, or coily, you’ll always want to use products that are the right fit for your hair type and texture. Be sure to check if your shampoo works for your specific hair type—and if you have color-treated hair, you’ll also want to check if your shampoo is color-safe.

Test it out. Because everyone’s hair is unique, you may need to try out several different products to find one that works well for you. Remember that you’ll probably want to try one product at a time, though, to truly assess what works best.

Do shampoos for thinning hair actually work?

The Cleveland Clinic notes that using the right kind of shampoo can indeed help deal with hair loss. While a shampoo won’t magically solve your hair loss or hair thinning problem, it can help your locks look thicker, add more volume, and prevent breakage—though results may vary depending on the product.

Shampoos can help promote hair growth by improving your scalp health. “A volumizing shampoo, in particular, can help to strengthen the hair and improve the overall fullness of the hair,” Dr. Garshick says. “While it won’t impact the amount of hair loss, it will help the hairs that remain on the scalp appear healthier and fuller, while awaiting normal hair regrowth.”

Which shampoo is best for thinning hair?

The best shampoo for thinning hair is one that you enjoy using, is suitable for your hair type, and targets the issues you are dealing with. If heat damage is the main source of your hair thinning, you will want to choose a restorative shampoo that can help nourish broken strands. A hydrating dandruff-fighting shampoo is best if you have a flaky scalp, while you’ll want a clarifying shampoo for thinning, oily hair.

Unfortunately, there’s not one answer to this question. Finding the best shampoo for thinning hair will take some trial and error, and you may prefer one that someone else dislikes. “In general it is important to remember that what works for one person may not work for another person,” Dr. Garshick says. “With all hair products and treatments, it takes time to see improvement, a product usually must be used for at least three to six months before you even begin to see results, so it is important to be patient.”

What shampoo do dermatologists recommend for hair loss?

Oma Agbai, M.D., board-certified dermatologist and Director of Multicultural Dermatology and Hair Loss Disorders at the University of California, Davis Medical Center, says commercial shampoos have not been proven to treat hair loss disorders. The better option is a medicated shampoo or treating the underlying issue that is causing hair thinning to help prevent future hair loss.

“Although commercial shampoos have not been proven to treat hair loss disorders, certain shampoos may be helpful in encouraging healthy hair growth if they promote a healthy scalp by decreasing scaling and itching, which can be seen in scalp conditions such as seborrheic dermatitis,” Dr. Agbai says. This can include medicated dandruff shampoos with zinc pyrithione or ciclopirox.

If your hair is damaged from heat, chemical treatments, or coloring, Dr. Agbai recommends checking the ingredients and opting for gentler formulas. “For people with fragile or damaged hair, gentle shampoos that are free of sulfates can be beneficial as they should not cause excessive drying, which can worsen hair fragility,” Dr. Agbai says.

Why is my hair thinning?

Hair thinning has plenty of causes, some serious. You can typically repair your hair with protective and restorative products if it’s caused by an external factor, such as heat damage, dying hair, swimming in chlorine, chemical treatments, and wearing tight hairstyles. Genetics, hormones, stress, diet, and aging also contribute to hair thinning and baldness.

If your hair is thinning to an extreme extent or no products are helping, your hair loss may be a result of an underlying health condition. “One of the more common types, called androgenetic alopecia, is a type of hair loss where there is gradual thinning of the crown and frontal scalp,” Dr. Agbai says. “As normal hairs fall out, they are replaced by short, wispy hairs called miniaturized hairs. This is caused by a combination of hormonal factors and genetics.”

Additional medical causes for hair loss include alopecia areata, lichen planopilaris, and telogen effluvium, which is the result of your body reacting to stress. “It is characterized by rapid shedding of hair, in which large clumps of hair are found in the shower drain after washing, or falling out onto the floor during day-to-day activities,” Dr. Agbai says.

Should I see a doctor about my hair loss?

“If you experience rapid hair shedding, thinning to the point of a widening part line, and/or scalp symptoms associated with patches of hair loss, please reach out to your doctor,” Dr. Agbai says. If your hair loss is caused by a medical condition, malnutrition, or fungal infection, seeing a doctor can help improve your overall health and your hair.

Even if your hair thinning doesn’t feel extreme or sudden, you can still pay a visit to your dermatologist. Dr. Garshick says it’s better to see a doctor sooner rather than later because it’s easier to prevent further thinning than regrowing hair. Sometimes, over-the-counter products and DIY treatments just won’t cut it. A dermatologist has medical expertise in hair loss, and they can help identify the root of the problem in order to treat you most effectively. “There may be treatments for hair loss that can either help you regrow lost hair or help you keep the hair you have, depending on your hair loss diagnosis,” Dr. Agbai says.

How we chose the best shampoos for thinning hair

We consulted Hope Mitchell M.D., board-certified dermatologist and founder of Mitchell Dermatology; Sam Ellis M.D., a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist and clinical instructor of dermatology at the University of California; Shab Reslan, a certified trichologist and hair stylist based in New York City; Oma Agbai, M.D., board-certified dermatologist and Director of Multicultural Dermatology and Hair Loss Disorders at the University of California, Davis Medical Center; and Marisa Garshick, M.D., F.A.A.D., board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology: Medical Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery and an assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Cornell NewYork-Presbyterian Medical Center, to find the best shampoos for thinning hair. We also combed through countless ratings, reviews, and product specs to find our top picks.

Why trust us?

For more than 70 years, Prevention has been a leading provider of trustworthy health information, empowering readers with practical strategies to improve their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Our editors interview medical experts to help guide our health-focused product selections. Additionally, Prevention also examines hundreds of reviews—and often conducts personal testing done by our staff—to help you make informed decisions.

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