The Best Products For Thinning Hair That Actually Work To Boost Volume And Growth (original) (raw)

This is, of course, dependent on the above type of hair loss. But generally speaking, minoxidil is a hugely popular and effective treatment and the only over-the-counter topical with meaningful clinical data proving its efficacy in treating hair loss. It also helps enlarge the follicle and extend the growth phase of hair, resulting in thicker, longer strands.

Kingsley adds that, as well as minoxidil, for female pattern hair loss, “good ingredients to look for are caffeine, melatonin, antioxidants, saw palmetto and peptides. These will not be as effective as minoxidil, but may help slow down the progression of FPHL. Light therapy, PRP and microneedling can be used as supportive treatments, but it’s important to realise that the latter two are not standardised or regulated. Do not use a dermaroller – these can damage your scalp and break your hair.”

While for telogen effluvium, “you must find the cause in order to treat it. To help your hair density recover faster, look for topicals containing anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant ingredients, such as piroctone olamine, red clover extract, azelaic acid, scutellaria baicalensis, and stimulants like caffeine (Philip Kingsley Density Preserving Scalp Drops). If you have a confirmed nutritional inadequacy, take targeted supplements (under a physician’s guidance if possible) and adjust your diet accordingly.”

No matter the type, the trichologist stresses, “adopting a holistic approach is key. Eating a healthy, nutrient-dense diet, managing stress levels and caring for your scalp as you do the skin on your face will help.”

Aesthetic practitioner Kelly Morrell says that for hair loss may caused by nutrient deficiency, and in that situation, she recommends supplements with the likes of vitamin D, B12, iron folate, zinc and magnesium. Dr Evan Rieder likes the data on marine collagen when taken as an oral supplement, noting that it’s consumed in high quantities in societies with fish-heavy diets and in certain populations with thick hair. One study of marine collagen’s effect on hair showed that marine collagen achieved hair growth comparable to that of finasteride, enhancing hair regrowth and increasing the expression of hair growth factors, making it a nice addition to the wellness routine of someone with male- or female-pattern baldness.

Both Dr Kahn and Dr Anetta Reszko recommend peptides, especially copper peptides (also known as GHK-Cu). In addition to having anti-inflammatory properties, they activate hair-follicle stem cells, extending the growth phase and upregulating genes involved with growth and the delivery of copper to the follicles. You can treat yourself with this active using topical formulas or get even more targeted treatment with copper-peptide scalp injections from a provider. Other peptides for hair growth include acetyl tetrapeptide, biotinoyl tripeptide-1, and oligopeptide-41. Often found in trademarked ingredient complexes like Procapil or Capixyl, these can help strengthen the follicle, making hair more resistant to shedding.

Rosemary oil is an all-natural option works by improving circulation and reducing inflammation, says Dr Reszko. “In some studies, it performs similarly to minoxidil over time,” she adds. She recommends rosemary oil as a plant-based alternative treatment for those who have mild thinning, including postpartum hair loss, or are sensitive to stronger treatments.