9 Best Shampoos for Thinning Hair 2025, According to 3 Testers

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Now that I’m in my 30s, I’ve realized aging doesn’t just show up on your face—it shows up on your head too. So when my ponytail started looking thinner and more scalp began to peek through, I started researching the best shampoos for thinning hair. And with seasonal shedding in full swing (yes, studies suggest this is a real thing in the late summer and early fall!), it felt like the perfect time to do another round of testing.

To find out what actually works, I spoke with dermatologists, hairstylists, and trichologists about which ingredients matter most, plus had 30 Glamour contributors with different hair types and concerns test the top formulas over two rounds of testing.

Can shampoos and conditioners for hair loss bring back the luscious locks of my early 20s? Not on their own—but they can help create a healthier scalp and softer, fuller-looking hair. “Shampoos for thinning hair are formulated to help reduce hair loss and encourage regrowth. Some will also focus on growing thicker hair,” says Gretchen Friese, a certified trichologist at hair-restoration company BosleyMD. Some increase the diameter of each strand to boost volume; others improve circulation at the follicle level. The most effective cleanse gently, without leaving behind buildup that can weigh hair down.

Below, you’ll find the best shampoos for thinning hair—each vetted by our team of testers and editors, and reviewed with expert input to help you find the right formula for your needs.

Top shampoos for thinning hair, at a glanceBest Overall

Hairmax Density Shampoo (10 fl. oz.)

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Best for Strengthening

Vegamour Gro Revitalizing Shampoo (8 fl. oz.)

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Best for Thickening

Kérastase Densifique Bain Densité Shampoo (8.5 fl. oz.)

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Best for Dry Scalp

Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo (7 fl. oz.)

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Best Budget

V&Co. Thickening Shampoo (12 fl. oz.)

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Best Overall: Hairmax Density Shampoo

Original photo from Breanna Davis testing Hairmax Density Shampoo

Hairmax Density Shampoo (10 fl. oz.)

What we like: Slows shedding and thinning; reduces product buildupWorth noting: Not very volumizingThis hair-growth shampoo combines saw palmetto and caffeine to help block DHT, the hormone that contributes to pattern hair loss by shrinking hair follicles. The formula also includes niacinamide to boost circulation and works to clear away buildup that can interfere with scalp health and deplete natural oils. After using it weekly for three months—alongside the brand’s Growth Serum—Glamour reviewer Breanna Davis noticed a significant reduction in shedding and felt her hair looked noticeably fuller. “I used it to target thinning at the center of my scalp, and I saw a huge difference. Even when I switch to another shampoo, the results hold,” she says.

Best for Strengthening: Vegamour Gro Revitalizing ShampooOriginal photo from Rachel Inman testing Vegamour Gro Revitalizing Shampoo

Original photo from Rachel Inman testing Vegamour Gro Revitalizing Shampoo

Vegamour Gro Revitalizing Shampoo (8 fl. oz.)

What we like: Strengthens and hydrates hair; visibly reduces shedding; safe for color-treated hair; veganWorth noting: Pricey; scent is strongThis was multiple testers’ top choice for best shampoo for hair growth—Vegamour also makes some of our favorite hair care products like hair-growth vitamins and supplements, hair growth masks, and scalp serums as part of a fuller routine. Its star ingredient is karmatin, a vegan keratin alternative that bonds to the hair shaft to strengthen strands and reduce breakage, says Rahi Sarbaziha, MD, a double board-certified integrative aesthetics doctor in Beverly Hills. Unlike formulas that rely on minoxidil, Karmatin offers a drug-free alternative that’s still clinically effective. The product is also an excellent choice for anyone looking for a shampoo for postpartum hair loss; some other treatments contain the drug minoxidil, which isn’t safe to use while breastfeeding, but Karmatin is a great alternative.

What our testers say: Multiple testers were impressed by how well the shampoo supported hair strength and density, regardless of hair type. “Within months, I saw less hair fall out and a noticeable increase in fullness—Vegamour gave me the thick, healthy hair I always wanted,” says Glamour reviewer Rachel Inman, who’s used the system for two years. Tester Canyon Silliman, who has curly hair, noticed a major reduction in shedding within three months of use: “I don’t see nearly as much hair in the drain anymore, and my curls have way more volume—even days after washing. On a more impressive note, my girlfriend has never complimented my hair more.” While the scent isn’t for everyone, both testers agree that the results are worth it.

Best for Thickening: Kérastase Densifique Bain Densité Shampoo

Original photo from Carolyn Todd testing Kérastase Densifique Thickening Shampoo for Thinning Hair

Original photo from Carolyn Todd testing Kérastase Densifique Bain Densité Shampoo

Kérastase Densifique Bain Densité Shampoo (8.5 fl. oz.)

What we like: Improves fullness and strength; doesn’t weigh down hair with residueWorth noting: Strong scent; tough to dispense from bottle; priceyKérastase makes some of our editors’ favorite hair-growth masks and other products, including this thickening shampoo. It’s rich in hyaluronic acid, which deeply moisturizes and helps your scalp rebuild its natural ecosystem, says Melanie Palm, MD, a board-certified dermatologist. Meanwhile, gluco-peptides repair hair and improve overall density.

What our tester says: “This was one of my holy grails during a period where my hair was thinning around the crown,” says Glamour shopping writer Alanna Martine Kilkeary, who used it regularly for a year. “After a few weeks, I saw fullness in spots that once looked sparse, and my hair felt smoother, bouncier, and softer. It didn’t weigh down my super-straight hair—it just made it look more full of life.” Her only caveat? The scent is strong.

Best for Dry Scalp: Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

Original photo from Jenifer Calle testing Nizoral Anti Dandruff Shampoo with 1% Ketoconazole

Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo (7 fl. oz.)

What we like: Contains proven ingredient that fights hair loss; lathers easily; affordableWorth noting: Not suitable for extreme cases of dandruffDandruff is a form of scalp inflammation caused by yeast overgrowth, which can lead not only to flaking but also to irritation that contributes to hair loss. This shampoo contains 1% ketoconazole, an antifungal that may help reduce that yeast and block dihydrotestosterone (DHT), the hormone linked to pattern hair loss. For milder cases of dry, flaking scalp, this over-the-counter version is an effective alternative to the 2% prescription formula, says board-certified dermatologist Connie Yang, MD.

What our tester says: Glamour senior shopping editor Jenifer Calle, who’s used the dandruff shampoo weekly for over a year along with a scalp serum, says it’s the only product that’s soothed her flaky scalp. “It lathers really well, smells fresh and medicinal, and leaves my hair feeling truly clean,” she says.

Best Budget: V&Co. Thickening Shampoo

Original photo from Gianna Cesa testing V&Co. Thickening Shampoo

V&Co. Thickening Shampoo (12 fl. oz.)

What we like: Adds volume; cuts down on oiliness; thickens hair; affordableWhat could improve: Scent is quite strongThis under-$10 shampoo uses biotin to support keratin production and boost volume, while peptides and coconut oil “coat the hair shaft to increase its strength, decrease brittleness, and reduce hair breakage during styling,” says Elizabeth Geddes-Bruce, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Westlake Dermatology.

What our tester says: Glamour reviewer Gianna Cesa loved how lightweight and hydrating it felt on her fine hair—and how much fullness and regrowth she saw over time. “I nerd out over ingredients like peptides, and this product added noticeable thickness and volume without breaking the bank,” she says.

Best 2-in-1: Rogaine Thickening 2-in-1 Shampoo + ConditionerOriginal photo from Roberto Caria testing Rogaine Thickening 2-in-1 Shampoo + Conditioner

Original photo from Roberto Caria testing Rogaine Thickening 2-in-1 Shampoo + Conditioner

Rogaine Thickening 2-in-1 Shampoo + Conditioner (8.4 fl. oz.)

What we like: Adds fullness and shine; stretches further than other shampoos; easy-to-use pumpWorth noting: Doesn’t contain minoxidil; may sting if it gets in your eyes; scent is strongRogaine is best known for its FDA-approved minoxidil treatments, and the brand’s two-in-one thickening shampoo offers a low-effort way to support hair health alongside that regimen. While its formula doesn’t contain minoxidil, the volumizing shampoo is designed to boost volume and improve scalp cleanliness, with a built-in conditioner that helps streamline your hair care routine. Its simplicity makes it a good hair-loss shampoo for men looking to maintain hair density without adding extra steps.

What our tester says: After two months of consistent use, our tester saw a visible difference. “My hair feels fuller, with a thicker appearance and curlier texture,” says Glamour reviewer Roberto Caria. “The minty scent is nice, and I need less shampoo to get the same amount of suds—so it lasts longer than other formulas.” He also appreciates the pump dispenser and smooth, shiny finish, though he noted the formula can sting a bit if it gets in your eyes.

Best Thickening: Aveda Invati Ultra Advanced Thickening ShampooOriginal photo from Emily Tannebaum testing Aveda Invati Ultra Advanced Thickening Shampoo

Original photo from Emily Tannebaum testing Aveda Invati Ultra Advanced Thickening Shampoo

Aveda Invati Ultra Advanced Thickening Shampoo

What we like: Gently exfoliates the scalp; supports thinning hair and adds volume; safe for color-treated hairWorth noting: Our tester didn’t love the scentThis nourishing shampoo is designed to help reduce hair loss and support thinning strands while leaving hair soft, shiny, and frizz-free. It works by gently exfoliating with wintergreen-derived salicylic acid to clear away oil, dirt, and buildup that can clog hair follicles and hinder growth, while nourishing strands with an Ayurvedic herb blend. It’s gentle on sensitive scalps, lathers nicely without drying, and is free of parabens, sulfates, silicones, phthalates, synthetic fragrance, and mineral oil, so those with color-treated hair can confidently lather up.

What our testers say: Emily Tannebaum, who’s been dealing with thinning and shedding at her temples since her late 20s, noticed a difference in under a month. “The exfoliating shampoo creates a light lather that doesn’t irritate my sensitive scalp or give me dry hair, yet still keeps me from feeling greasy for at least three days between washes,” she says. “The scent isn’t my favorite, but this shampoo definitely helps—my hairline already looks fuller, and my hair feels more voluminous.” The conditioner is worth picking up too. “I think the conditioner is where the real magic happens,” she says. “After just a couple uses, I noticed a significant decrease in shedding. I also noticed that my ponytail felt thicker as I rinsed out the product.”

Best for Volume: Monday Haircare Thinning ShampooOriginal photo from Bailey Gann testing Monday Haircare Thinning Shampoo

Original photo from Bailey Gann testing Monday Haircare Thinning Shampoo

Monday Haircare Thinning Shampoo

What we like: Great overall value; lathers well; great scent; lightweight enough for fine hairWorth noting: May not be hydrating enough for curlier, coarser hairThis volumizing shampoo gives fine, flat hair a boost where it counts the most: at the roots. Hydrolyzed collagen helps strands feel fuller, while hydrating ingredients like macadamia oil, shea butter, and coconut oil add shine and nourishment without weighing hair down, making it look limp. As a nice bonus, it’s sulfate- and paraben-free, so it’s safe for color-treated hair, plus it comes housed in a recyclable bottle.

What our testers say: “I’ve been using this shampoo and conditioner for about two to three weeks, washing my hair twice a week instead of my usual once-weekly wash,” says tester Bailey Gann. “It was super easy to add into my routine, has an incredibly clean scent, and lathers really well when massaging the scalp. It’s also very lightweight.” After just a few weeks, her roots already feel healthier and there’s a noticeable boost in volume. “I often wear my hair slicked back or pulled up, but after washing, it felt so healthy and more voluminous that I could wear it down naturally for a few days in a row.”

Best Custom Hair-Growth Shampoo: Prose Custom ShampooOriginal photo from Nancy Laobak testing Prose Custom Shampoo

Original photo from Nancy Laobak testing Prose Custom Shampoo

Prose Custom Shampoo

What we like: Specifically formulated to target individualized concerns; sulfate-free; color- and keratin-safeWorth noting: Our tester thought the texture was a bit heavyIf a one-size-fits-all shampoo has never quite worked for you, Prose might be the answer. Each formula is made-to-order based on your hair type, texture, density, and goals—so, for example, you could tackle oily roots and thinning at the same time. The brand uses naturally derived, science-backed ingredients like biotin, acacia collagen, and apple cider vinegar, but exactly what ingredients are in your bottle are up to you and the information you provide about your unique concerns. We love how seamlessly it fits into a full routine too. You can pair your custom shampoo with a personalized conditioner, scalp serum, hair mask, and more, making it one of the most comprehensive hair care systems out there.

What our testers say: Tester Nancy Laobak, who has fine, straight hair and is dealing with postpartum hair loss, said she noticed real improvement after about a month. “My hair looks noticeably sleeker, shinier, and softer overall,” she says. “It gave my hair a normal amount of volume without weighing it down, and it helped my hair stay fresher for longer between washes.” While she didn’t see a dramatic change in fullness, she appreciated how healthy her hair looked and felt—especially paired with the matching conditioner. “It melted into my hair easily without leaving residue,” she says. “My hair felt hydrated and nourished but not weighed down.” Her only critique? “The texture felt a little too viscous and plasticky for me.”

Frequently asked questions

How we tested shampoo for thinning hair

To create this list, we started by consolidating dermatologist-recommended formulas and best-selling shampoos targeted at thinning hair. We assigned the shampoos to 30 Glamour testers—including both men and women with a wide range of hair types, textures, and concerns, from postpartum shedding and hormonal shifts to stress-related loss and general density changes.

Each reviewer used their assigned shampoo consistently for at least six weeks—the minimum time frame experts told us is needed to begin seeing meaningful results. Reviewers were asked to follow the product’s directions and track changes in shedding, overall fullness, and density (especially around the hairline and crown). They also evaluated the shampoo’s fragrance (Was it pleasant or overpowering?), how well it lathered and rinsed out, and overall value—factoring in how much product they needed per wash and whether the results justified the price. Their feedback helped us determine which shampoos made the final list—and how we categorized each one.

Does shampoo for thinning hair work?

Yes, shampoo for thinning hair works to a point. Shampoos for thinning hair can help create a healthy scalp environment that supports stronger, fuller-looking hair, but they can’t stop or reverse most types of hair loss on their own. “They’re not a solution for hair loss, but they can assist in creating an optimal environment for the survival of existing hair follicles,” says Hardik Doshi, MD, FACS, a double board-certified surgeon.

If your thinning is due to hormonal changes or pattern baldness, shampoo alone won’t restore your hair. The best results come from a comprehensive plan developed with a dermatologist or trichologist—typically involving targeted treatments, medication, nutrition, and stress management. Still, shampoos can make hair appear thicker by adding volume and removing buildup that can interfere with growth, says Shab Caspara, a board-certified New York–based trichologist and founder of hair care brand Leona.

What causes thinning hair?

The most common cause of thinning hair is androgenetic alopecia, also called male- or female-pattern hair loss, says Brooke Jeffy, MD, a board-certified dermatologist who specializes in hair loss and skin care. “This causes a widening of the part in women and a receding hairline or bald spot in men.” This kind of hair loss is a result of a hormone called dihydrotestosterone (DHT) attacking the hair follicle, says Friese. “When this happens, the follicle starts to minimize and grow thinner and thinner hair, until it closes and the hair stops growing out of that follicle.”

Other causes of thinning hair include:

Hormonal imbalancesAutoimmune disordersNutrition deficienciesOngoing stressPregnancyDandruffRapid weight lossRough handling of hair (like very tight ponytails)Cosmetic treatmentsShunts (a small patch that might be shaved on the head during a medical procedure)Menopause (this isn’t an “official” menopause symptom since it’s not related to estrogen loss, but it’s commonly reported at the beginning of menopause, and studies show that more than half of postmenopausal women over age 50 will have thinning hair)How can I tell if my hair is thinning?

You can tell your hair is thinning when it starts to look or feel less dense than usual—your ponytail has less volume, your part looks wider, or you’re seeing more scalp than hair. You might also notice sudden shedding, more strands collecting in your brush or on the shower floor, or new cowlicks forming, says Dr. Doshi.

Unlike hair breakage or loss, thinning usually happens gradually as individual hairs lose circumference, explains celebrity hairstylist Mark Townsend. It often starts around the hairline, crown, or nape of the neck, and for many women, it first shows up as a part that’s slowly widening over time.

What are the key ingredients in shampoos for thinning hair?

The key ingredients in shampoo for thinning hair include:

Ketoconazole: A drug that can help lessen scalp irritation and encourage growth by reducing fungus caused by dandruff and acne.Minoxidil: An FDA-approved medication that can potentially reverse hair-follicle miniaturization by increasing blood circulation. It needs to be able to penetrate the scalp in order to be effective, however, which a shampoo can’t do alone as it’s rinsed off.Rogaine: A topical medication licensed by the FDA that has demonstrated efficacy in stimulating hair growth by bringing blood and nutrients to the scalp. It comes in a range of formulations and strengths, says Dr. Doshi.Biotin: A B vitamin that potentially “supports keratin production to increase hair volume and density, and strengthen the hair shaft,” says Michele Green, MD, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist in New York City.Niacin: An antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties that can strengthen hair follicles and promote overall scalp health.Saw palmetto: A natural plant extract that may potentially slow hair loss.Rosemary, caffeine, peppermint: Natural ingredients that stimulate blood flow to the scalp.What should I consider when shopping for shampoo for hair growth?

When shopping for shampoo for hair growth, consider the following:

The cause of your hair loss. If your loss is genetic, a shampoo will not be the one-stop solution, though it may be helpful if you have dandruff. This cause will be best determined by talking to a dermatologist or trichologist.Your hair type and texture. “Fine, thin strands need ultralightweight formulas, while thick, coarse hair can withstand richer hair products,” says Dr. Doshi. If you have curly, coily hair, some shampoos for thinning hair may leave you feeling drier than normal, so look for ones with hydrating ingredients. You should avoid heavy ingredients, which may clog follicles.Ingredients. “Gentle cleansing agents are very important in a shampoo specifically for thinning hair, as the scalp needs to be protected with special care,” says Caspara. “Harsher cleansing agents such as sodium laureth/lauryl sulfate can strip the microbiome of healthy bacteria and irritate the scalp, ultimately hindering healthy hair growth. Stimulating ingredients that can increase blood circulation at the scalp can also benefit those who suffer from thinning hair. Thickeners that can instantly plump up the hair shaft and provide a gratifying feeling of thicker and fuller hair can help ease the stress of dealing with hair thinning.”How long does it take for shampoo for thinning hair to work?

It typically takes six to eight weeks of consistent use for shampoos for thinning hair to work. Early signs of progress may include less shedding, new growth, slightly fuller-looking hair, and the scalp feeling healthy.

What is the best shampoo for thinning hair for men?

The best shampoo for thinning hair for men includes ingredients like ketoconazole, caffeine, and saw palmetto. One tester who experiences male-pattern hair loss tried various hair-loss shampoos for men and liked Rogaine’s 2-in-1 Thickening Shampoo + Conditioner for its simplicity and noticeable results after consistent use.

Does Alpecin shampoo work?

There’s some evidence that Alpecin shampoo works to help support scalp and hair health—especially in the early stages of thinning. Its caffeine-infused formula may stimulate hair follicles and reduce shedding, says Dendy Engelman, MD, FACMS, FAAD, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist and Mohs surgeon at the Shafer Clinic in New York City.

“Caffeine has been shown in some lab studies to stimulate hair follicles and potentially help with hair shedding,” she explains. However, research on caffeine shampoos is still limited, and they’re best used as part of a broader hair loss routine rather than a stand-alone treatment. For more advanced or persistent thinning, Dr. Engelman recommends consulting a dermatologist about proven options like minoxidil or prescription therapies.

What are other hair-loss treatments?

Other hair-loss treatments include both over-the-counter and professional options, depending on what’s causing your thinning. For starters, minoxidil 5% solution is one of the most proven and accessible choices. “Minoxidil has the best evidence of any over-the-counter hair-loss product,” says Steve Daveluy, MD, associate professor and program director of dermatology at Wayne State University in Detroit, noting that it’s thought to improve blood flow to the scalp and help nourish hair follicles.

Prescription medications can also target hormone-related hair loss. “Drugs like finasteride (Propecia), dutasteride, and spironolactone work by blocking DHT—a hormone that can shrink hair follicles—or by reducing androgen production,” says Dr. Green.

For more advanced cases, in-office treatments such as low-level laser therapy or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections may help stimulate regrowth. “PRP injections use platelets from your own blood to encourage new hair growth,” says Dr. Green. “An initial series of treatments followed by maintenance sessions typically delivers the best results.”

Hardik Doshi, MD, FACS, a double board-certified lead surgeon at hair-restoration studio AmpleBrooke Jeffy, MD, an Arizona-based board-certified dermatologist who specializes in hair loss and skin careDendy Engelman, MD, FACMS, FAAD, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist and Mohs surgeon at the Shafer Clinic in New York CityGretchen Friese, a certified trichologist at hair-restoration company BosleyMDShab Caspara, a board-certified New York–based trichologist and founder of hair care brand LeonaMichele Green, MD, a New York–based board-certified cosmetic dermatologistMark Townsend, a celebrity hairstylistSteve Daveluy, MD, associate professor and program director of dermatology at Wayne State University in Detroit