When you’re thinking about all of the hair products you can use for your thinning hair to make it look thicker and fuller, shampoo might be the last on your list. You may have considered hair thickening serums, treatments that contain essential oils like rosemary to boost hair follicle health, root-lift sprays, and conditioners for softer, more manageable hair. But shampoos? Don’t feel bad if they’re the least of your concerns.
The thing is: shampoo matters, especially if you are using one that contains ingredients that are harsh on hair and especially unforgiving when it comes to thinning and shedding hair. The good news is that there are a few ingredients that notorious for being bad for your hair — and as soon as you know what they are, you can pick and choose shampoos that don’t contain them. Here are three of the most damaging shampoos you should never use if you suffer from shedding and hair fallout and shampoos you should use instead.
Don’t Use: Shampoos Containing Sulfates
Do not, DO NOT use shampoos that contain sulfates because these chemicals can strip your scalp of natural oils, leaving your hair parched and brittle and thus more prone to breakage and hair thinning. When you are reviewing your shampoo ingredients, look out for sodium lauryl sulfates and sodium laureth sulfates — and then put the bottle back and choose something else. Seriously: they are that drying and damaging.
Use This Instead: Shampoos With Rosemary Oil
Rosemary oil has been shown to have a positive effect on thinning hair and help boost hair growth. This ingredient can improve circulation to the scalp while reducing inflammation and curbing dandruff. Plus, it smells pretty lovely on top of it all.
Don’t Use: Shampoos With Alcohols
Alcohol is sometimes added to shampoo to help thicken its formula. But a shampoo with alcohol won’t help thicken your hair — in fact, it can dry it out, leaving it damaged and prone to breakage.
Use This Instead: Shampoos With Ketoconazole
Ketoconazole has been shows to boost hair density and the size of hair follicles and has been compared to Minoxidil 2%. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce dandruff and other scalp irritation — and the healthier your scalp and hair follicles are, the more you’ll help create the conditions your scalp needs to grow hair.
Don’t Use: Shampoos With Dimethicone
Dimethicone can make your hair look and feel fantastic, but it’s mainly an illusion. This silicone is added to products to help create silkier, smoother hair — and it works. But it also can irritate your skin and leave it — and your hair — dry. And, as you know, a dry scalp can lead to more hair shedding.
Use This Instead: Shampoos With Zinc pyrithione
Zinc pyrithione is great for banishing dandruff from your scalp and it can even be effective in treating scalp psoriasis. Good scalp health is the basis for great hair. If you aren’t sure if your scalp could benefit from this ingredient, talk to a dermatologist about your hair concerns.
When you’re spending money on hair products and thinking about what can make thinning hair look its best, don’t forget about shampoo. The first step in our haircare routines is also one of the most important — and the right ingredients can make a difference when it comes to your scalp’s health and shedding.
