Samantha Holender
A little bit about me: I had pretty extreme hair shedding three years ago. Since then, I've been on a serious journey to bring back my waist-length hair. I've learned that adding inches takes much more than regular shampoo and conditioner. To grow my hair and restore thickness, I've had my blood injected into my scalp via PRP injections (yes, it hurt), tested an in-office device called Alma Ted (it works by infusing energy and growth factor), and tried every hair growth product on the market, from hair growth shampoos and hair growth oils to hair vitamins and collagen powders.
However, the world of hair growth products is daunting and unexpectedly large, filled with scientific-sounding ingredients I had never seen or heard of before. For that reason, I tapped dermatologists, trichologists, and hairstylists to simplify the world of hair growth and recommend the best products, hands down, for overall hair growth. I'm also sharing my favorite products ahead.
Best Hair Growth Products
- Best Hair Growth Shampoo: Tea Tree Scalp Care Regeniplex Shampoo
- Best Hair Growth Conditioner: Nioxin System 2 Scalp Therapy Conditioner
- Best Hair Growth Oil: EssyNaturals Hair Growth Oil
- Best Hair Growth Scalp Treatment: Women's Rogaine 5% Minoxidil Foam for Hair Thinning and Loss
- Best Hair Growth Vitamin: Nutrafol Women Hair Growth Supplement
When one of the Marie Claire beauty writers stopped by Spoke & Weal salon recently, she couldn’t resist asking master stylist Kelsy Osterman for her go-to hair growth products. Without skipping a beat, Osterman launched into her love for Hårklinikken’s cult-favorite formulations. The Scandinavian brand has earned a serious following for its ultra-personalized approach; each product is tailored to the client’s specific hair needs, which isn't exactly common in the hair-care space. Osterman calls Hårklinikken’s Hair Gain Extract a treatment that “feeds the follicles,” nourishing roots to promote optimal hair growth.
Size: 2.5 fl oz
Ingredients: Burdock root ( (may inhibit DHT, a hormone linked to hair loss), calendula (stimulates scalp circulation), apple extract (hydrates and protects), cow's milk (strengthening),
What We Love: Uses natural botanical ingredients; formulated specially to your hair's unique needs;
What We Don't: Not vegan-friendly; requires following a specific regimen for best results
OGX has long been one of my go-to affordable hair brands. This shampoo, which is infused with biotin, vitamin B7, and hydrolyzed wheat protein, strengthens and supports follicular health to give me the strongest hair possible. And I’m not alone in my love for this shampoo. Board-certified dermatologist Rachel Nazarian, M.D. says, "In terms of anti-inflammatory and strengthening shampoos, I recommend OGX, which is sulfate-free and less drying than many shampoos. The keratin proteins and argan oil strengthen the cuticle for stronger hair."
Size: 13 fl oz
Ingredients: Biotin and hydrolyzed collagen (strengthening)
What We Love: Moisturizing; free of sulfates and parabens; affordable
What We Don't: People with thin/oily hair may find it too rich
This shampoo’s formula heavily incorporates tea tree oil, which is fabulous for clearing scalp buildup and creating an optimal environment for hair growth. Dendy Engelman M.D., FAAD, a board-certified dermatologic surgeon at the Shafer Clinic Fifth Avenue in New York City, attests, "Tea tree oil helps to clear the blockages in the pores and helps to prevent dryness and itching." These advantages create the best setting for your hair to grow thick, long, and healthy.
Size: 10 fl oz
Ingredients: Tea tree oil (anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial), glycerin (hydrating), turmeric (anti-inflammatory), ginseng (stimulates scalp circulation), clover extract (may inhibit DHT, a hormone linked to hair loss)
What We Love: Soothing; clarifying; contains tea tree oil; affordable
What We Don't: Contains sulfates
I love this hair cleanser, which is cold-pressed to ensure that its fortifying ingredients remain as potent as possible. Celebrity hairstylist Lacy Redway backs me up, explaining that she hadn’t tried cold-pressed shampoo until this one, which gently cleanses and refreshes your hair, but is now hooked. It also helps balance the pH levels in your hair and leaves it feeling shiny and healthy. When I started using the cleanser, I noticed a significant reduction in dryness and frizz. Plus, the scent is subtle and never clashes with my perfume.
Size: 10 fl oz
Ingredients: Rosemary leaf extract (stimulates scalp circulation), baobab oil (strengthening), glycerin (hydrating), panthenol (strengthening and temporarily thickening)
What We Love: Subtle smell; controls frizz; enhances shine; cold-pressed; editor-approved
What We Don't: Not very clarifying
Nioxin is known to focus on scalp and follicular health to support hair growth, but do the products actually work? According to hairstylist Michael Dueñas, they absolutely do. "Nioxin is fantastic for slowing temporary hair loss due to stress, environmental factors, and certain health issues," he says. This conditioner is part of Nioxin's two-step hair growth regimen and is preceded by the brand's signature shampoo.
Size: 39 fl oz
Ingredients: Biotin (strengthening), niacinamide and peppermint oil (stimulates scalp circulation), lemon peel extract (exfoliating), panthenol (strengthening and temporarily thickening)
What We Love: Supports scalp health; increases volume; relatively quick results; expert-approved
What We Don't: Some reviewers find the peppermint smell off-putting
Dr. Young stresses that minoxidil is the only FDA-approved treatment for male and female pattern hair loss. "Minoxidil is an over-the-counter topical medication that comes in two percent and five percent concentrations," he says, adding that it comes in either foam- or solution-form. Rogaine is the leading, and perhaps the most popular, producer of minoxidil products, with solutions that are made for women and men alike. Application is also exceptionally easy: Just apply to areas of the scalp where you’d like to see increased growth, and be sure to wash your hands thoroughly when you’re done.
Size: 2.1 fl oz
Ingredients: Minoxidil (FDA-approved hair growth medication)
What We Love: FDA-approved; clinically tested; lightweight
What We Don't: Some users find it sticky; it can impact blonde hair color if used before a bleaching treatment
Board-certified dermatologist and MaeiMD founder Rebecca Marcus M.D. FAAD, says that the prostaglandin PGD2 "has been shown to be increased in those with hair loss, and castor oil is known to inhibit PGD2. While we are still unsure whether or not these actions cause hair to grow faster, at the very least it may help prevent breakage, contributing to overall length of the hair." Thus, checking out castor oil-infused products like this one from refugee-owned, charitable brand As I Am is worthwhile. It’s detangling, effective, and made with curly hair in mind.
Size: 12 fl oz
Ingredients: Castor seed oil and vitamin E (stimulates scalp circulation), vitamin C (protective antioxidant), piroctone olamine (antifungal and antimicrobial), glycerin (hydrating)
What we Love: Affordable; great for curly hair (works on all curl patterns); made with natural hair in mind; refugee-owned brand; charitable brand; detangling
What We Don't: Not as suited for straight hair; thick, so may not be as suitable for thin or oily hair
Board-certified dermatologist Peter Young M.D., recommends using protein-infused formulas when looking for the best hair growth products, saying that this ingredient has the power to "strengthen and thicken each hair strand." This conditioner from Vegamour does just that. It is a favorite among verified customers and has been subject to rigorous clinical testing. I’ve used it myself, and can attest that it reduces shedding and effectively hydrates my lengths and ends with weighing down my type three curls or making my thin strands feel greasy.
Size: 8 fl oz
Ingredients: Biotin and baobab seed oil (strengthening), aloe leaf juice (soothing), turmeric (anti-inflammatory), glycerin (hydrating)
What We Love: Silicone-free; protein-infused; clinically tested
What We Don't: It's on the more expensive side
Jerry Shapiro M.D., a dermatologist at the New York University School of Medicine who specializes in hair loss, highly recommends formulas like this one that utilize caffeine. "Caffeine reverses the effects of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), the main hormone involved in hair loss," he explains. The formula also utilizes castor oil, a natural ingredient that aids in healthy hair growth; biotin, which improves the strength of hair follicles; and rosemary oil, which has also gained popularity in recent months for its ability to support hair growth and retention.
Size: 1.7 fl oz
Ingredients: Castor oil (moisturizing and strengthening), caffeine and rosemary oil (stimulates scalp circulation), biotin (strengthening)
What We Love: Available via Amazon Prime; boasts predominantly five-star ratings
What We Don't: Thick, so users with thin hair may find it greasy
Board-certified dermatologist Mona Gohara, M.D., advises that customers "avoid hair oils that contain primarily silicones" if they want a long-lasting result. Instead, she recommends natural ingredients such as castor oil, which is featured heavily in this silicone-free formula by Grow Gorgeous. The formula also contains caffeine for an added boost. And for less than $20 per bottle, your scalp and your savings account will thank you.
Size: 2 fl oz
Ingredients: Caffeine (stimulates scalp circulation), clover extract (may inhibit DHT, a hormone linked to hair loss), Acetyl Tetrapeptide-3 (may stimulate hair follicles), green tea extract (protective antioxidant)
What We Love: Uses natural ingredients like castor oil; contains caffeine to stimulate hair growth; free of parabens, silicones, phthalates, and sulfates
What We Don't: Strong smell
I swear by these vitamins, and so does board-certified dermatologist Kim Nichols M.D. FAAD. "Nutrafol supplements target key factors of thinning hair such as nutrition, stress, and lifestyle with natural, medical grade ingredients," she explains. "This clinically effective supplement improves hair growth and visible thickness." I started taking these vitamins after a nasty bout of COVID-19, and they helped tremendously with reducing shedding and fostering the growth of thick, healthy hair in the spots where I'd noticed thinning. They also don't leave any nasty aftertaste.
Size: 120 capsules
Ingredients: Saw palmetto (may inhibit DHT, a hormone linked to hair loss), curcumin from turmeric (anti-inflammatory), marine collagen peptides (strengthening and moisturizing), keratin (strengthening)
What We Love: Clinically-tested; editor-approved; no aftertaste; expert-approved; editor-approved
What We Don't: Expensive; some users may not like the four-pills-per-day regimen.
If you’re looking for a hair growth supplement that also benefits your skin, Elysium Health’s Mosaic might be your perfect match. It's packed with antioxidants and hydration-boosting ingredients that work at the cellular level to boost skin and scalp health, indirectly (yet powerfully) helping hair grow stronger and thicker. Just remember, consistency is key with any supplement—but if you’re in it for the glow and healthy roots, Mosaic gets our vote.
Size: 30 soft gels
Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid (hydrating), rosemary leaf extract (stimulates scalp circulation), tomato extract (protective antioxidant), iron (increases blood circulation), vitamin A (strengthening)
What We Love: Science-backed; contains oral hyaluronic acid; monthly, semi-annual, and annual subscriptions available; only requires you take one soft gel per day
What We Don't: Significant financial investment, one tub only contains 30 soft gels (though this is likely intentional for quality control)
When I started seeing the trichologists at Philip Kingsley, I described my symptoms and lifestyle. They identified that an iron deficiency was one of the culprits for my hair shedding. These vitamins, among several that the brand offers online, are designed to bring iron levels back up to where they should be for hair growth to be at its best. Plus, they're cruelty-free and have been rigorously tested by trichologists before going on the market, so I feel confident they contain safe, effective ingredients.
Size: 60 capsules
Ingredients: Iron, biotin, and selenium (strengthening), vitamin C (protective antioxidant)
What We Love: Contains iron, Vitamin C, and other diet-balancing ingredients; no aftertaste; editor-approved; clinically tested
What We Don't: Not necessarily a drawback for everyone, but this formula focuses on foundational hair health rather than direct growth-stimulating ingredients.
It’s important to keep your scalp clean and free of excess oil, dead skin, and buildup if you want a healthy environment for hair growth. With that in mind, you may consider incorporating a scalp scrub into your haircare routine, whether you’re plagued by sweat in the summer or dandruff in the winter. This option from cult-favorite brand Ceremonia is perfect for just that, and it is formulated with clean botanical ingredients safe for even the most sensitive skin.
Size: 8 fl oz
Ingredients: Bolivian mountain salt (physical exfoliation), papaya enzymes (remove product buildup by exfoliating), pricky pear extract (moisturizing)
What We Love: Clean; Latinx owned brand; good for all skin and hair types
What We Don't: Not suited for someone who has abrasions on their scalp
What to Look For in a Hair Growth Product
Ingredients
When choosing the right hair growth product for you, board-certified dermatologist Alexandra Bowles D.O., advises you to consider the ingredients in the product. "Minoxidil is one of the most researched and effective topical treatments for hair growth, often used in cases of androgenetic alopecia (pattern hair loss)," she explains. "It works by increasing blood flow to the hair follicles and prolonging the growth phase of the hair cycle."
While some ingredients may not be direct treatments like minoxidil, they can still offer benefits. "Biotin, a B-vitamin, plays a role in keratin production, which is essential for healthy hair structure," Dr. Bowles adds. "It’s important to consider formulations that include vitamins A, C, D, and E, which nourish the scalp and strengthen hair follicles. Caffeine and green tea extract are also very helpful ingredients, as they stimulate the follicles and reduce hair shedding due to their antioxidant properties."
Hair Type and Concerns
Dr. Bowles also emphasizes the importance of tailoring products to your specific hair type and concerns, such as thinning, breakage, or scalp health. "For example, products designed for those with fine hair may focus on volumizing effects, while products for curly or coarser hair typically include more hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or argan oil," she continues.
Sulfates
"Make sure to avoid any ingredients that can strip your hair or scalp of natural oils, such as sulfates and parabens, as these can disrupt the scalp barrier and worsen hair loss over time. Look for products promoting scalp health, as a healthy scalp is vital for optimal hair growth."
How to Prevent Hair Loss
Be Gentle With Styling
Preventing hair loss isn't straightforward; it’s a multi-faceted process. "Preventing hair loss is often a complex approach that involves gentle hair care practices and addressing underlying health factors," says Dr. Bowles. "From a clinical perspective, this means avoiding tight hairstyles, excessive brushing, and using a wide-tooth comb, particularly when your hair is wet, as it is more prone to breakage."
Use a Heat Protectant
The same goes for heat styling. Minimizing it when possible is critical, according to Dr. Bowles, who explains that exposure to high temperatures can weaken the hair shaft, damaging and inhibiting healthy growth. "Make sure to use a hair heat protectant in these cases to minimize damage," she says.
Don't Forget Sun Protection
Don’t underestimate the relationship between sun protection and hair growth. "Protecting your hair from sun damage by wearing a hat or using UV-protectant sprays is important, as UV rays can weaken the hair shaft by breaking down the protein structure of the hair, particularly keratin, which is vital for strength and resilience," Dr. Bowles adds.
Maintain a Holistic Lifestyle
As with most health issues, diet and stress play major roles. Dr. Bowles recommends a balanced diet "rich in protein, iron, and essential vitamins—particularly vitamin D and B-complex vitamins—which supports healthy hair growth and reduces shedding." She explains that "chronic stress can lead to conditions like telogen effluvium, where excessive hair falls out due to disrupted growth cycles, so incorporating stress management techniques such as meditation, yoga, and regular exercise can help mitigate this risk."
Stay in Contact With Your Doctor
"It’s also crucial to maintain a clean scalp to prevent conditions like dandruff and fungal infections, which can disrupt hair growth and contribute to hair thinning." If you’re struggling with persistent hair loss, it’s vital to consult a healthcare provider, too. They’ll evaluate potential underlying factors like hormonal imbalances or medication side effects that could contribute to hair thinning, notes Dr. Bowles.
What Makes Hair Grow Faster
Preventing hair loss and speeding up growth usually go hand-in-hand, and Dr. Bowles breaks it down into three essentials: nutrition, scalp care, and supplements.
Proper Nutrition
"Focusing on a diet rich in essential vitamins and minerals—such as vitamin A, vitamin C, biotin, and vitamin E—is crucial for supporting hair health at the follicular level. Vitamin A promotes the production of sebum, which keeps hair moisturized, while vitamin C aids in collagen production, vital for hair structure."
Scalp Care
Wanting faster hair growth is the perfect excuse for a scalp massage. "Scalp massages are effective for increasing blood circulation and stimulating hair follicles, which can encourage new growth," she explains. She adds that using rosemary or peppermint oil brings extra benefits since these oils have compounds that promote blood flow and stimulate follicles.
Supplements
Finally, vitamins could be the missing piece if you’re not seeing the results you want. "Certain oral supplements containing biotin, zinc, and iron can be beneficial," Dr. Bowles explains. "These nutrients are crucial in strengthening hair and enhancing its natural growth cycle, ensuring that hair remains resilient and vibrant.
If you are experiencing significant hair loss or scalp issues, it’s important to consult a dermatologist to identify any underlying conditions or personalized treatments that may be necessary."
Meet the Experts
Dr. Dendy Engelman is a board certified dermatologic surgeon at Shafer Clinic Fifth Avenue. She has also been appointed Director of Dermatologic Surgery at New York Medical College and is a fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology, American Society of Dermatologic Surgery, and American College of Mohs Surgery.
Rachel Nazarian, M.D., is a board-certified dermatologist and a Fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology. She completed her medical degree at the Tulane University School of Medicine and is currently a faculty member at Mount Sinai Medical Center’s Department of Dermatology and a member of the Schweiger Dermatology Group. She has been published in a number of peer-reviewed medical journals, has contributed to dermatological textbooks, and is an expert in cosmetic treatments, skin cancer, general dermatology and dermatologic surgery.
Lacy Redway is a New York-based hairstylist who has styled the likes of Tessa Thompson, Laura Harrier, Priyanka Chopra, Anne Hathaway, Karlie Kloss, Sarah Paulson, Elizabeth Olsen, Ruth Negga, Gabrielle Union, Diane Kruger, and many more. She has also appeared in a number of magazines, is a celebrity stylist for Nexxus, and has worked with photographers such as Rankin, Gavin Bond, Alexander Neumann, Warwick Saint, Ben Hassett, Michael Schwartz, Alexei Hay, Micaela Rossato, and Erik Madigan Heck.
Dr. Rebecca Marcus is a board-certified dermatologist who specializes in medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology. She has nearly two decades of experience and completed her residency along with a clinical research fellowship at Columbia University. Since then, in addition to practicing dermatology, she has founded her own skincare line, Maei MD.
Dr. Peter Young is a board-certified dermatologist based in Massachusetts. Before working with Facet, he studied medicine at Albany Medical College in Albany, New York and completed a dermatology residency at Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, DC. He then served as Chief of Dermatology at Fort Bragg, published a number of medical articles, and has spoken at national medical conferences about teledermatology. Now, in addition to his work with Facet, he is a fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology and a member of the Massachusetts Medical Society.
Michael Dueñas is a celebrity hairstylist based in Los Angeles. He has worked with Illana Glazer, Rachel Brosnahan, Noah Cyrus, Padma Lakshmi, Morena Baccarin, Petra Nemcova and Mary Elizabeth Winstead. In addition, he has worked with a number of magazines and fashion houses, having partnered with Michael Kors, Carolina Herrera, Oscar de la Renta, Victoria’s Secret, Alice and Olivia, Betsey Johnson, Trina Turk, Nicole Miller, Charlotte Ronson and more. He is also particularly passionate about and experienced in working with curly and textured hair.
Kim Nichols, MD, FAAD is a board-certified dermatologist who was educated at Harvard University. She has works with a number of celebrities and provides training to fellow dermatologists as well as plastic surgeons on how to administer injectables for natural-looking results.
Dr. Mona Gohara is a board-certified dermatologist who graduate medical school with AOA Honors before training as a dermatologist at Yale. Currently, she is the vice president of the Women’s Dermatologic Society as well as a member of The American Academy of Dermatology and The American Society For Dermatologic Surgery.
Dr. Shapiro is a dermatologist at the New York University School of Medicine who specializes in hair loss and combatting both and female- and male-pattern hair loss. He is particularly committed to finding healthy, nonsurgical methods of fighting hair loss and thinning.
Cortney Crace is a colorist and hair stylist at New York-based salon Suite Caroline.
Ashanti Lation is a Master Hair Stylist with over 20 years experience. In addition to being an expert on hair growth and hair health, she champions the natural hair movement.
