Hair loss can have a dramatic effect on self-esteem. Losing the look of long, thick tresses is inevitable for many with age. However, with the right haircare products, a balanced diet, and the right cut, you can revive flat, thin hair. One hair product that’s been discussed in recent years with thinning hair is caffeine-infused shampoo. This hair loss treatment was designed to stimulate hair growth using caffeine extract.
We reached out to a professional hair stylist about what caffeine-infused shampoo is and if it can actually boost hair volume and regrowth. Read on for tips, suggestions, and insight from Gabrielle White, a board-certified beautician, hair stylist, cosmetologist, and co-founder of Dash Stylist.
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Caffeine-infused shampoos
Caffeine-infused shampoos are hair care products that claim to treat hair loss. They contain caffeine that is usually derived from natural sources (like coffee or tea!) as one of their main active ingredients. The caffeine is then typically added to the shampoo in a concentrated form.
"The idea behind these shampoos is that caffeine can help hair growth and reduce hair loss. Caffeine is thought to stimulate blood circulation to the scalp, which can improve the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the hair follicles," White explains. "It is also believed to block the effects of dihydrotestosterone, a hormone that is associated with hair loss."
Caffeine, she says, is believed to stimulate blood circulation. In shampoo form, it can penetrate the skin and hair follicles. "Some studies," White notes, "have suggested that caffeine may promote hair growth by increasing blood flow to the scalp and stimulating the hair follicles. However, these studies have typically been small and have not always used rigorous scientific methods."
"One study published in the International Journal of Trichology in 2013 evaluated the effectiveness of a caffeine-containing shampoo in promoting hair growth in men with androgenetic alopecia (male-pattern hair loss)," she continues. "The study found that the caffeine shampoo was effective in increasing hair growth and reducing hair loss in the study participants."
On the other hand, White says that another study in the Journal of Dermatological Science in 2027, "found that caffeine applied topically to the scalp could counteract the negative effects of testosterone on hair growth." Overall, White says that even though the scientific evidence for caffeine-infused shampoos isn't conclusive, she says that "it is important to note that individual results may vary and more research is needed to fully understand the benefits of caffeine for hair health."
If you're not convinced of caffeine-infused shampoo benefits, White recommends consulting a dermatologist before trying any new hair growth "solution." She says, "It's crucial to talk to a doctor or to a dermatologist before using any of these products, because there are several possible causes for hair loss or thinning hair, and it is obvious that you need to know the cause to choose the right treatment." Noted!
Bottom line
Overall, White recommends relying on common sense and good hair health. Firstly, she says to avoid heat styling and harsh chemicals. "Heat styling tools and chemical treatments such as hair dye and bleach can damage the hair and contribute to hair loss. Try to avoid these as much as possible, or use them sparingly and with caution."
On the other hand, White also emphasizes that eating a healthy, balanced diet can be a game-changer for hair growth. "Eating a healthy, balanced diet that is rich in nutrients such as iron, biotin, and protein can help to promote hair growth," she says. "Some good food sources for these nutrients include leafy greens, nuts, eggs, and fish." And, if you're still struggling with thinning hair, a great way to boost your hair is to get a new cut that hides gaps in the hairline or works with layers!
