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Hair loss is common. Prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) hair growth products may help. We look at 11 of the most effective hair growth products to consider, including shampoos, oils, and scalp treatments.

Hair loss affects many people. The most common cause of hair loss is hereditary hair loss, called androgenic alopecia.

According to one 2020 study, 40% of women experience female pattern hair loss by age 50 years. Similarly, 50% of men over age 50 may develop male pattern hair loss.

Once a person has established the cause of their hair loss, they are more likely to be able to find effective hair growth products.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, some hair growth products are effective — but not all hair growth products will deliver on the manufacturers’ claims.

This article discusses hair loss products in more detail and looks at 11 of the best options a person can consider.

Certain growth products contain ingredients that help stimulate hair growth, such as finasteride and minoxidil. Some products also claim to reduce shedding and protect the hair from breakage. Others include natural ingredients that can contribute to hair health.

Hair growth products come in different forms, including:

  • shampoos
  • conditioners
  • gummies
  • serums

People may have to use hair growth products regularly to address their hair loss, as hair loss may continue if they stop the treatment.

Please note that the writer of this article has not tried these products. All information presented is purely research-based and correct at the time of publication.

Best for thinning hair in females: Keranique Hair Regrowth Treatment for Thinning Hair

  • Price: around $29
  • Type: solution
  • Active ingredient: 2% minoxidil
  • Size: 2 fluid ounces (fl oz)

The company recommends a person apply this product directly to the scalp twice daily. The active ingredient is minoxidil, which the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved to treat hair loss.

The pros of this product include its FDA-approved active ingredient, minoxidil, and the company’s 120-day, money-back guarantee.

However, people should be aware that minoxidil can cause side effects, such as scalp irritation and facial hair growth in females. Hair loss can return if a person stops using minoxidil.

Keranique Hair Regrowth Treatment for Thinning Hair is available online for around $29 for 2 fl oz, which the manufacturer states is a 1-month supply.

Pros

  • uses an FDA-approved ingredient
  • helps regrow hair
  • easy to apply
  • comes with a generous return period

Cons

  • hair loss may occur if people stop using it
  • may take more than 1 month to notice improvement, according to reviews
  • minoxidil can cause side effects, such as irritation
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Best hair growth gummies: HUM Hair Strong Gummies

  • Price: $26
  • Type: supplement
  • Active ingredients: biotin, zinc, folic acid, B12
  • Size: 60 gummies

The Hair Strong Gummies from HUM Nutrition are a vegan, berry-flavored hair growth supplement. Some of the ingredients include:

  • 5,000 micrograms (mcg) of biotin
  • 20 milligrams (mg) of zinc
  • 500 mcg of folic acid
  • 850 mcg of vitamin B12

The gummies use non-GMO ingredients. Verified, independent, third-party laboratories test the gummies.

The pros of this product include its vegan recipe that includes non-GMO ingredients and that third-party labs test it. Gummies may also be easier to take than tablets. However, some users report acne breakouts and allergic reactions.

One bottle includes 30 servings. The company recommends a person eats two gummies per day, with or without food.

Pros

  • may be easier to take than tablets
  • contains non-GMO ingredients
  • uses a vegan recipe
  • third-party tested

Cons

  • may cause acne breakouts and allergic reactions, according to reviews
  • some buyers do not like the flavor
  • provides well over a person’s recommended Daily Value of several nutrients
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Best cuticle treatment: Nioxin 3D Intensive Hair Booster

  • Price: around $58
  • Type: conditioner
  • Active ingredients: citric acid, hydrolyzed keratin, and dimethicone
  • Size: 3.4 oz

Made by Nioxin, this product is a conditioner a person massages into affected areas, such as a receding hairline, twice daily and leaves in.

The company states this product can aid hair thickness by forming a protective barrier around the cuticle, preventing thinning and damage.

There are a range of positive reviews on the product’s Amazon page, with some buyers claiming they saw hair regrowth after using the product.

Pros

  • easy to target specific areas
  • forms a protective barrier on the hair cuticle
  • has a range of positive reviews

Cons

  • some buyers report folliculitis breakouts and scalp inflammation
  • can be expensive for regular use on smaller budgets
  • people have to use it twice daily for it to be most effective
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Best for a wide range of targeted supplements: Nutrafol

  • Price: $88
  • Type: supplement
  • Active ingredients: vitamins A, C, D, and E, biotin, iodine, zinc, and selenium
  • Size: 120 capsules

This company manufactures nutraceutical-based hair growth supplements designed to provide a person with what their body needs to support healthy hair growth.

Each product aims to address a different demographic or health concern, such as a supplement for women’s hair wellness, postpartum hair shedding, and a DHT inhibitor supplement.

This supplement contains vitamins A, C, D, and E, biotin, iodine, zinc, and selenium.

It may take 3–6 months for people to see results. The company does not guarantee results.

A person can buy single bottles or sign up for a monthly subscription for $88.

Pros

  • a physician-formulated product that contains natural ingredients
  • claims to also thicken eyebrows and eyelashes
  • targets hair loss and thinning that occurs due to aging, stress, and hormone changes

Cons

  • may be inconvenient to take four capsules per day
  • offers very high amounts of certain nutrients, so users may exceed their recommended daily amount
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Best for curly hair: Miss Jessie’s Grow Strong Mafura Natural Hair Growth Oil

  • Price: $11
  • Type: oil
  • Active ingredient: mafura oil
  • Size: 1.5 fl oz

This Miss Jessie’s product moisturizes and strengthens natural curly or coiled hair to prevent breakage. While this product does not claim to regrow lost hair, strengthening it may reduce the risk of hair shedding. Preventing breakage may also make hair look thicker.

It hydrates the hair and scalp with a blend of:

  • mafura oil
  • Abyssinian seed oil
  • sweet almond oil
  • avocado oil
  • argan oil
  • soybean oil
  • jojoba seed oil
  • coconut oil

Some advantages of this product are that the company specifically designed it for curly or coiled hair, and it may soothe dry and itchy scalps. It also uses natural ingredients and is very affordable.

However, it contains soy and other potential allergens, and some users claimed it made their hair greasy.

Pros

  • the company has designed the product for curly or coiled hair
  • aims to strengthen the hair and prevent breakage
  • uses natural ingredients
  • may help soothe dry and itchy scalps

Cons

  • contains soy and other potential allergens, such as coconut
  • some users found it made their hair greasy
  • it will not regrow lost hair
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Best high strength hair growth supplement: Viviscal

  • Price: around $34
  • Type: supplement
  • Active ingredient: AminoMar C marine complex
  • Size: 60 tablets

According to the manufacturer, this hair growth supplement increases the number of hairs and their thickness while reducing hair shedding.

One ingredient is AminoMar C marine complex. As such, this product may be inappropriate for people with seafood-related allergies.

The company writes that its products have undergone clinical testing, although the FDA has not evaluated them.

The company advises a person to take one pill twice per day.

Pros

  • the brand claims the product has gone through clinical tests
  • there is a 90-day guarantee
  • reportedly suitable for all hair types

Cons

  • unsuitable for people with seafood allergies
  • can take 3–6 months to see results
  • some people find tablets difficult to swallow
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Best hair repair mask: Carol’s Daughter Monoi Repairing Hair Mask

  • Price: around $32
  • Type: hair mask
  • Active ingredient: monoi oil, hydrolyzed silk
  • Size: 7 oz

This company claims its product can result in 98% less breakage after just one use.

The hair mask contains monoi oil and hydrolyzed silk. A person can use this mask after shampooing and conditioning their hair. Carol’s Daughter recommends it for fine, delicate, or chemically treated hair.

A person must massage it into their hair and scalp and leave it for 5–7 minutes. According to the company, they should aim to use it at least four times per month.

Pros

  • reportedly works on all hair types
  • free of parabens and artificial colors
  • clinically tested

Cons

  • may be more effective when a person uses it with other Carol’s Daughter products
  • has caused frizzy and tangled hair in some customers
  • may dry out the scalp
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Best for scalp oil: The Mane Choice Alpha Multi-Vitamin Scalp Nourishing Growth Oil

  • Price: $12.99
  • Type: oil
  • Active ingredients: biotin, tea tree oil, rosemary leaf extract
  • Size: 4 fl oz

A person applies this oil directly to the scalp after shampooing and leave it to stimulate and soothe the scalp to reduce shedding.

The formula contains a range of natural ingredients and oils, including:

  • tea tree oil
  • rosemary leaf extract
  • biotin

The company also claims the product can clear oily buildup on the scalp and that it is gentle enough to use every day.

Pros

  • does not contain parabens
  • may help clear oil and buildup on the scalp
  • gentle enough to use every day

Cons

  • some users reported scalp irritation and did not see any improvements
  • does not specifically grow hair or prevent hair loss
  • may take a long time to absorb into the scalp
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Best minoxidil foam: Rogaine 5% Minoxidil Unscented Foam

  • Price: from $33.99
  • Type: foam
  • Active ingredient: 5% minoxidil
  • Size: 2.11 oz

Minoxidil, the active ingredient in this foam, is FDA approved for promoting hair growth. The product also contains alpha-hydroxy acid, botanical extracts, and emollients to support a healthy scalp and follicles.

A person applies this foam daily and consistently for the best results.

There are different versions of this product for males and females.

Some pros are that the product is FDA approved, it can promote hair growth, and it is easy to apply. However, minoxidil can cause side effects and unwanted hair growth. Hair loss can also return if a person stops using the product.

Pros

  • FDA approved for hair growth
  • may support scalp health
  • easy to apply formula

Cons

  • hair loss may occur if a person stops using the product
  • can cause unwanted hair growth
  • minoxidil can cause side effects
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Best for gluten-free scalp serum: The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair Density

  • Price: around $23
  • Type: serum
  • Active ingredient: caffeine
  • Size: 60 milliliters (mL)

The company designed this product to promote hair growth and thickness, particularly when combined with a scalp massage. Its active ingredients include proprietary complexes of REDENSYL and CAPIXYL. These complexes include:

  • protein peptides to strengthen and repair hair
  • castor oil to stimulate hair growth
  • caffeine to encourage absorption
  • conditioners to soften the hair
  • moisturizers

The company claims that with a lightweight, nongreasy feel, the scalp can absorb this product easily.

Pros

  • lightweight and nongreasy formula
  • uses natural ingredients to stimulate growth
  • also works to condition and soften the hair

Cons

  • may leave an oily residue, according to reviews
  • not suitable to use with direct acids, direct vitamin C, resveratrol, ferulic acid, or salicylic acid
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Best for support from medical professionals: Roman Hair Loss

  • Price: from $16–$35 per month
  • Type: solution, tablets
  • Active ingredient: minoxidil and finasteride
  • Size: 2 fl oz, 30 tablets

Focused on hair loss in men, this online retailer offers virtual consultations with a medical practitioner, home delivery of prescription medications approved for treating hair loss, and ongoing follow-ups to adjust treatment.

To sign up for the service, a person must complete an assessment. The company then suggests whether its products will be suitable for the person.

A person can sign up for:

  • finasteride, a prescription drug for receding hairline
  • minoxidil, a topical application for hair thinning on the crown of the head
  • both finasteride and minoxidil

The advantages of this service include its health consultations, a wide range of FDA-approved hair growth products, and discreet, free shipping.

However, its products can take 3 months to show results. A person must use them daily, and hair loss can return if a person stops.

Pros

  • offers online consultations with licensed doctors
  • free, discreet shipping
  • offers FDA-approved hair loss treatments

Cons

  • can take 3 months to see results
  • a person must use product daily
  • hair loss can return if a person stops using product
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The table below compares each of the products included in this article.

Brand Type TargetsIngredientsPrice
Keraniquesprayhair regrowth2% minoxidilaround $29
Hum Nutritiongummyhair health• biotin
• zinc
• folic acid
• vitamin B12
$26
Nioxincuticle treatmentthinning hair• citric acid
• hydrolyzed keratin
• dimethicone
around $58
Nutrafolsupplementhair health• biotin
• vitamins A, C, D
• zinc
• selenium
• patented collagen
• amino acid
• herbal blends
$88
Miss Jessie’soil• itchy scalp
• natural and curly hair
• soybean
• avocado
• jojoba seed
• argon
• Abyssinian seed oil
• coconut
• sweet almond oils
$11
Viviscalsupplementthinning hairproprietary AminoMar marine complexaround $28
Carol’s Daughterhair maskbrittle, dry, or damaged hair• monoi oil
• hydrolyzed silk
around $32
The Mane Choiceoilscalp health• biotin
vitamins C and D
• rosemary, sunflower, and grape seed extract
$12.99
Rogainefoam• hair loss
• thinning hair
• 5% minoxidil
• botanicals
from $33.99
The Ordinaryserumthinning hair• protein peptides
• castor oil
• caffeine
• conditioners
• moisturizers
around $23
Roman• scalp treatment
• tablet
male pattern hair loss• finasteride
• minoxidil
$16–$35 per month

Medical News Today’s methodology

Medical News Today chooses products that fit the following criteria where possible:

  • Price: Products that are available for a range of budgets.
  • Suitability: Products that companies market as suitable for all adults and for a wide range of hair types.
  • Ingredients: MNT features products with safe ingredients that may contribute to hair health.
  • Reviews: Where possible, products feature a range of customer reviews discussing their advantages and disadvantages.

Medical News Today follows a strict product selection and vetting process. Learn more here.

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According to the American Academy of Dermatology, the common treatments for hair loss include:

Minoxidil

Minoxidil is an FDA-approved treatment for hair loss. It can change the growth phase of hair. However, people may find that their hair loss returns if they stop using minoxidil.

Additionally, it can cause unwanted hair growth in other areas of the body.

Finasteride

This medication addresses male pattern baldness and female pattern hair loss in postmenopausal females. It works by reducing levels of DHT in the body and slowing hair loss.

Vitamins and supplements

If a person receives blood test results showing deficiencies in certain vitamins or minerals, such as biotin, iron, or zinc, a doctor may recommend they take supplements.

A person should not take supplements if they do not have a deficiency.

Home laser devices

These devices can come in the form of combs, brushes, and caps. The theory is that laser light stimulates hair follicles to grow. However, research is yet to conclude how effective laser therapy is for hair loss.

A 2020 literature review states that low level laser therapy (LLLT) can be effective for male and female pattern hair loss. Researchers note some studies have links with hair loss product manufacturers, so there may be a risk of bias.

Overall, there is a need for more research into the effectiveness of this treatment.

Microneedling

This treatment involves using a device fixed with hundreds of small needles. A person rolls this device over their skin to prick the surface, creating very small injuries. It may work well with other hair loss treatments, such as minoxidil, by helping the product penetrate the skin.

A 2022 overview of microneedling states some people use it in tandem with minoxidil or topical steroids. 2021 research states that doing this can significantly increase hair counts. Other older studies have found that it may make minoxidil treatments more effective.

It is recommended a person talk with a dermatologist or doctor before trying this treatment because it may worsen some hair or scalp conditions.

There are many hair loss products on the market with positive user reviews. However, a person should speak with a doctor to determine the cause of their hair loss and the best treatment.

A person can consider the following factors when looking for a hair loss treatment:

  • Price: Some treatments can be expensive. A person can carefully consider the proven benefits of their chosen treatment before purchasing.
  • Ingredients: Some hair loss brands are transparent with the ingredients used in their products, while others are not. A person can research the ingredients listed on hair loss treatments and check that they are safe. They can avoid products that do not clearly list the ingredients. If a person has an allergic reaction or irritation from a hair loss treatment, they should stop using it and seek medical advice.
  • Hair type: Some products feature specific formulas for certain hair types, such as curly or thinning hair. People can also consider how they usually style their hair and choose a product they will find convenient to use.

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends consulting a doctor about possible hair loss as soon as signs of hair loss appear. This is because earlier treatment can be more effective. Early treatment can also prevent further hair loss.

The U.K. National Health Service (NHS) writes that a person can consult a doctor if they experience:

  • sudden hair loss
  • bald patches
  • hair loss in clumps
  • a burning or itching scalp
  • emotional distress due to hair loss

Below are some frequently asked questions relating to hair growth products.

Do hair growth products work?

It depends. Many do not work.

Products made with minoxidil and finasteride are FDA approved and can be effective, but they can also cause side effects.

Products made with natural ingredients may be less effective and have less research to back up manufacturers’ claims.

However, some research has yielded promising results for some ingredients used in hair growth products, such as:

  • zinc
  • saw palmetto
  • marine proteins
  • garlic gel
  • curcumin
  • capsaicin
  • caffeine

Are hair growth products safe?

For the most part, hair growth products are safe. However, some ingredients, such as minoxidil, can potentially cause side effects.

Before using hair growth products, people need to check for allergen warnings and possible interactions with other medications and supplements.

What product is best for hair growth?

Minoxidil and finasteride may take 3 months to show results, but they are widely researched and FDA approved. As such, this may make them the best option for people wanting noticeable results within a few weeks.

Is there anything that really helps hair grow?

People may consider self-care strategies if they are experiencing hair loss or want to protect their hair from further thinning. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends consulting a dermatologist, who may also suggest the following:

  • avoiding using heat styling products, such as blow-dryers
  • avoiding wearing the hair in a pulled-back style
  • using a moisturizing conditioner after shampooing the hair
  • using a gentle shampoo that does not remove moisture from the hair

Hair loss is a common condition that can have a significant personal impact. Understanding the causes of hair loss can help a person find hair growth products that best suit them.

Hair growth products include shampoos, conditioners, oils, masks, and supplements. People should proceed with caution, always check the ingredients, and discuss product use with a doctor if they are taking other medications or supplements or have known allergies.