Does your hair look and feel thinner than it used to? It isn’t uncommon to experience hair shedding and thinning as the years pass, and this is often a result of hormonal changes (among other factors). A board-certified dermatologist can help you get to the root cause of your hair thinning and may recommend specific treatments to boost hair growth. It’s always a good idea to do some leg work on your own at home by purchasing quality shampoos and conditioners that contain effective ingredients.
What do we mean by effective? Well, the best shampoos for thinning hair WON’T be loaded with parabens and sulfates that can dry your hair and make it more prone to shedding, nor will they contain ultra drying alcohol. When you’re reading ingredients list, look for these five ingredients that hair experts swear by to regrow thinning hair.
Biotin and Panthenol
Luckily, biotin is usually present in most shampoos for thinning hair already. This vitamin (B7) is important for hair growth and overall scalp health. If you can find a shampoo that contains both biotin and panthenol (vitamin B5), even better: panthenol strengthens strands and helps retain moisture so that your hair is smoother and silkier.
Saw Palmetto
Saw Palmetto is an herbal extract that contains something called enzyme 5-alpha-reductase, which changes testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that is associated with hair loss.
Argan Oil
Keeping your hair as smooth, soft, and hydrated as possible is key to healthy hair that is less prone to shedding. Argan oil is a great ingredients because it is rich in antioxidants and fatty acids and extremely nourishing to your scalp and hair.
Ketoconazole
Your hair may be experiencing more shedding because of dandruff and dryness on the scalp. Ketoconazole is a popular ingredient in anti-dandruff shampoos and can also be found in many shampoos for thinning hair. In addition to its effect on dandruff, it has been shown to have anti-androgenic benefits that may help with hair loss that is caused by shifting hormones.
Peppermint Oil
That tingly feeling you’ll experience when using a shampoo that contains peppermint oil is proof that this natural oil is boosting circulation to your hair follicles and scalp, which can help boost hair growth. Be careful not to apply undiluted peppermint oil to your scalp, though — it is recommended that you dilute it with a carrier oil like coconut or jojoba oil.
