Those labels on your shampoo bottle that indicate that it is ideal for fine hair, thinning hair, color-treated hair, etc. aren’t just mere suggestions. The ingredients in your shampoo are different from the ingredients in other shampoos and certain products for specific hair types are actually formulated with ingredients that address that concern. When it comes to thinning or fine hair, this is no exception. Many shampoos are designed to give thin hair a major boost or to keep strands conditioned without weighing down the roots of your hair.
Instead of shopping for shampoo brands you like, consider taking a deep dive into ingredients that can help boost your hair’s volume and make it look thicker and healthier. Experts swear by these shampoo ingredients to grow thicker, fuller hair.
Saw Palmetto
Saw Palmetto is a fruit extract that serves as a DHT blocker in shampoos. What this means is that it aids in blocking the hormone DHT, which is responsible for hair loss when your body produces too much of it. One study of 100 men with androgenetic alopecia found that 38% of participants who used saw palmetto saw an improvement in their hair loss — so it’s certainly worth a shot.
Biotin
You’re probably familiar with biotin, which is vitamin B7 and helps with keratin production and healthier hair, skin, and nails. Taking a biotin supplement may help with hair loss if you’re deficient in that nutrient, and several shampoos are formulated with biotin because they claim it can help slow down shedding.
Keratin
Keratin is the protein found in nails and skin and it serves as a protective thickener for hair. Keratin helps fill in the space between damaged hair strands and can make your hair look and feel stronger and glossier. Naturally, choosing a shampoo that contains keratin is a smart idea because, even if it can’t help your hair grow, it can minimize the dryness and damaged appearance of your hair.
Argan Oil
Argan oil is SO nourishing. This anti-inflammatory oil, which is derived from the kernels of the Moroccan organ tree, contains linoleic acids that hydrate your scalp and can help if you suffer from conditions like psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis. Strengthening your hair at the roots can only lead to better outcomes when you’re trying to regrow hair.
Thickening Shampoos
Some of the popular thickening shampoos we know and love include:
PURA D’OR Hair Thinning Therapy Shampoo, $20, Amazon
This shampoo is vegan and contains so many nourishing ingredients like biotin, organ oil, and niacin. It’s also cruelty-free and free of sulfates that can strip your hair of moisture and mess with your hair color, as well.
Shapiro MD DHT Fighting Shampoo, $40, Shapiro MD
Everything you need to know about this shampoo’s intentions and benefits is in its name: it contains ingredients designed to block DHT, the hormone that can cause hair loss and thinning. Among the ingredients found in this shampoo are saw palmetto, organ oil, antioxidant EGCG, and hydrating oils like avocado, chia seed, and pumpkin seed oils.
Hair loss can make you feel powerless. You can take back control by choosing shampoos that contain ingredients deemed effective that can help make your hair look thicker and boost growth.
