Losing some hair every day is normal—in fact, we shed around 100 strands daily. However, if you’re noticing large clumps coming out when you shampoo or your scalp is becoming more visible, it might be time to try products designed for thinning hair. While many associate hair loss with men, women experience it frequently too, and it can be emotionally and practically challenging to manage.

Vogue’s Top Picks for Thinning Hair

Best Shampoo and Conditioner
Vegamour GRO+ Advanced Balancing Shampoo and Conditioner Kit
$104 at VEGAMOUR

Best Budget Option
Multi-Peptide Serum
$23 at AMAZON

Best Thickening Spray
Bumble and bumble Thickening Dryspun Volume Texture Spray
$37 at AMAZON

According to board-certified dermatologist Anetta Reszko, treating hair loss can be difficult because it has many causes. Thinning hair may result from genetics, hormonal shifts (like during pregnancy or menopause), medical issues, lack of nutrients, or stress—both emotional and physical, such as damage from chemical treatments or tight hairstyles.

The most common type of hair thinning is pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia), which is hereditary, hormone-related, and tends to appear with age. Despite the complexity of hair loss, there are effective treatments available. Below, we share our favorite products for thinning hair, along with advice from leading doctors to help reduce shedding and encourage regrowth.

In This Article
– What causes thinning hair?
– What ingredients are best for thinning hair?
– Can thinning hair grow back thicker?
– How can you tell if your hair is thinning?
– What vitamin deficiency causes thinning hair?
– How can you prevent further thinning?
– What to look for in hair-loss treatments
– Meet the experts

Best Shampoo and Conditioner: Vegamour GRO+ Advanced Balancing Shampoo and Conditioner Set
Vegamour GRO+ Advanced Balancing Shampoo and Conditioner Kit
$104 at VEGAMOUR

Why We Love It: This set is made for fragile, thinning hair and helps reduce shedding while balancing the scalp with a blend of plant extracts, peptides, and amino acids. Dr. Reszko adds that niacinamide soothes and strengthens the scalp barrier, reducing irritation and supporting healthier hair—making it a smart choice for any thickening routine.

Editor’s Experience: “I’ve tried many shampoos and conditioners for thinning hair, but this is the one I keep coming back to. It cleans thoroughly, leaves my hair nourished without heaviness, and most importantly, it noticeably cuts down on shedding. My husband loves it too.” —Emily Orofino, contributor

Key Ingredients: Spanish microalgae, niacinamide, marula oil
Usage: Use a quarter-sized amount, leave on for at least one minute before rinsing
Type: Shampoo and conditioner

Best Budget: The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair Density
Multi-Peptide Serum
$23 at AMAZON
$23 at NORDSTROM

Why We Love It: This popular, affordable serum contains clinically supported peptides, caffeine, and plant extracts that stimulate hair follicles, improve scalp health, and help hair look thicker and fuller over time, says Dr. Reszko.

Key Ingredients: Caffeine, biotinoyl tripeptide-1, acetyl tetrapeptide-3
Usage: Apply a few drops to the scalp nightly and massage in
Type: Serum

Best Scalp Massager: Solaris Laboratories NY Cloud Nine Scalp Massager
Solaris Laboratories NY Cloud Nine Scalp Massager
$89 at NORDSTROM

Why We Love It: Daily scalp massage has been shown to encourage thicker hair growth, likely by increasing blood flow to the follicles. This tool enhances the effect with sonic vibration and red LED light, boosting circulation, removing buildup, and helping products absorb better—all while providing a relaxing experience.Dr. Reszko notes that using the device offers a “spa-like experience.” Although scalp massage alone may not be the most effective solution for thinning hair, it can reduce stress and enhance well-being, which Evan Rieder, a dual board-certified dermatologist and psychiatrist, explains helps create an ideal environment for hair growth.

Specifications include sonic vibration, red LED light, and silicone bristles. Use it for 15 to 20 minutes, at least three to five times a week on a clean, dry scalp. It’s categorized as a device.

Best Minoxidil: Rogaine 5% Minoxidil Foam Hair Regrowth Treatment
Price: $45, now $40 (11% off) at Amazon
Dr. Rieder highlights this as “the only therapy with consistent data proving its efficacy.” Minoxidil is a drug, and topical versions were prescription-only until FDA approval for over-the-counter sales in 1996. It works by reversing hair follicle miniaturization, which causes thinning and loss. This formula avoids leaving hair sticky or crispy and hydrates with glycerin. However, be cautious if you have pets, as minoxidil is highly toxic to cats and dogs, even in small amounts.
Key Ingredients: 5% minoxidil, glycerin
Dosage: Apply half a capful of foam to the affected area daily.
Type: Foam

Best Supplement: Nutrafol Women’s Hair Growth Supplements
Price: $88 at Nutrafol and Amazon
Amanda Kahn, a board-certified internist and longevity expert, states these capsules tackle poor circulation and nutrient deficiencies vital for healthier hair. They contain vitamins, minerals, and plant extracts like biotin, marine collagen peptides for strength and hydration, ashwagandha to reduce stress hormone effects, and saw palmetto to combat thinning by lowering DHT levels.
Key Ingredients: Biotin, saw palmetto extract, ashwagandha
Dosage: Take four capsules once daily with food.
Type: Supplement

Best Red-Light Device: HigherDOSE Red Light Hat
Price: $449 at Amazon, Bluemercury, and Nordstrom
Dr. Reszko says red-light therapy benefits early-stage thinning and pattern baldness by stimulating follicles, extending the growth phase, reducing inflammation, and improving scalp circulation. Dr. Kahn recommends it for hormonal changes like menopause, andropause, or postpartum, when hair needs extra support. With 120 bulbs, it’s stiffer than a typical baseball hat but comfortable and convenient for 10-minute treatments at home or on the go. Note that the magnetic battery pack may interfere with ponytails.
Specifications: 120 red LED lights, 650nm wavelength
Usage: Use for 10 minutes daily for 16 weeks, then three to four times weekly for maintenance.
Type: Device

Best Mask: Virtue Flourish Mask for Thinning Hair
Price: $70 at Amazon and Bluemercury
This mask provides deep nourishment without weighing down thin hair. Dr. Kahn recommends it for frequent heat stylers, as it repairs and strengthens weakened strands. It combines fructooligosaccharides, beetroot extract, and shea butter for lightweight moisture, with keratin and biotin for repair.Promote healthier hair growth with peptides and red clover extract.

Key Ingredients: Biotin, red clover extract, beetroot extract
Dosage: Use instead of conditioner in your usual amount, once or twice a week, and rinse out after three minutes.
Type: Mask

Best for Dry Scalps: Briogeo Scalp Revival Rosemary Pre-Wash Oil
Briogeo Scalp Revival Rosemary Pre-Wash Oil – $32 (Amazon, Bluemercury)

Why We Love It: Dr. Kahn notes that a dry scalp can cause thinning hair and recommends this Briogeo formula for dry, irritated scalps. Rosemary oil in the formula reduces inflammation and improves circulation to combat thinning. It also contains anti-inflammatory bisabolol and tea-tree oil, which have antimicrobial benefits to calm dandruff. Castor oil and biotin nourish hair for added strength. Plus, the nozzle cap makes application simple.

Key Ingredients: Rosemary oil, biotin, castor oil
Dosage: Apply enough to cover the scalp, massage in, and leave on for 10–15 minutes or overnight as preferred.
Type: Oil

Best Nongreasy: WeThrivv Revivv for Her Hair Rejuvenation Serum
WeThrivv REVIVV for Her Hair Rejuvenation Serum – $65 (Amazon)

Why We Love It: This clean serum has botanical ingredients in a roll-on bottle for easy, mess-free use. Dr. Reszko suggests parting your hair and gliding it along the scalp to deliver growth-promoting peptides, caffeine for circulation, and phytoestrogens like genistein. Its water-based formula dries quickly with no residue, so it won’t ruin your hairstyle.

Editor Experience: Emily Orofino shares, “Since minoxidil is risky for my Siamese cat, I rely on this plant-based serum. It’s easy to apply, dries like water, and doesn’t leave hair sticky or greasy like minoxidil products. For better absorption, use a dermaroller before applying.”

Key Ingredients: Copper tripeptide-1, horse chestnut extract, genistein, amino acids, caffeine
Dosage: Apply generously to scalp and roots twice a day.
Type: Serum

Best Texture Spray: Bumble and bumble Thickening Dryspun Volume Texture Spray
Bumble and bumble Thickening Dryspun Volume Texture Spray – $37 (Amazon)

Why We Love It: This spray adds fullness, volume, and texture to dry hair without weighing it down, making it ideal for fine or thinning hair. Jae Manuel Cardenas recommends it to extend the life of a blowout and add lift on days two or three.

Editor Experience: Emily Orofino adds, “I use this lightweight spray to thicken hair and add lift. It holds styles well without stickiness or grit, keeping my straight hair curled and full-bodied.”

Key Ingredients: Wheat protein, silk powder, zeolite
Dosage: Spray on dry hair from 10 inches away as needed.
Type: Texture spray

Best Mousse: Kérastase Mousse Bouffante Luxurious Volumizing MousseKerastase Mousse Bouffante Luxurious Volumizing Strong Hold Mousse
$40 at AMAZON

Why We Love It:
Apply this mousse to damp hair before blow-drying for lasting volume. It holds hair in place while allowing natural movement, avoiding the stiff, crunchy feel of older mousses. The formula also provides UV and heat protection to keep your hair and color healthy during styling.

Editor Experience:
“I usually avoid mousses because they can leave my fine hair sticky or greasy, but this one adds lasting body and fullness without any odd texture, despite its strong hold.” —Emily Orofino, contributor

Key Ingredients: UV filters, vitamin E
Dosage: Use a plum-sized amount, raking it through damp hair from roots to ends before heat styling.
Type: Mousse

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Best Root Lifter: L’Oréal Professionnel Paris Volumetry Volumizing Root Lifting Spray
$36 at AMAZON

Why We Love It:
This spray adds thickness even in humidity and is perfect for targeted volume at the roots. It creates density without buildup, thanks to salicylic acid that helps break down scalp greasiness.

Editor Experience:
“I use this daily as a prep spray on towel-dried hair, focusing on the crown and mid-lengths before blow-drying. For the best lift, I dry with a round brush to enhance volume.” —Emily Orofino, contributor

Key Ingredients: Salicylic acid, hydrolyzed vegetable protein
Dosage: Spray on damp hair as needed, section by section, before styling.
Type: Root lifting spray

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Best “Hair” Fibers: Toppik Hair Building Fibers
$25 at AMAZON

Why We Love It:
A favorite among stylists, these fibers create the look of thicker hair. They come in various shades to match your hair color and are easy to apply: just sprinkle onto dry hair, pat to secure, and finish with hairspray.

Key Ingredients: Keratin protein fibers
Dosage: Sprinkle onto the scalp as needed.
Type: Hair building fibers

Editor Experience:
“Great for thinning hair or diffuse loss, these fibers add bulk and cover the scalp to reduce shine. Apply before getting dressed, as they can be messy when you’re new to using them.” —Emily Orofino, contributor

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Best With Exosomes: SickScience PowerCycle Scalp Treatment Serum
$58 at AMAZON

Why We Love It:
Topical exosomes can help regenerate follicles and stimulate hair growth by extending the growth phase. While not as strong as in-office treatments, this serum is a good option. It’s non-greasy and comes with a large dropper for easy application.Apply this serum to your scalp daily, even if your hair is very thick. Massage one milliliter into your scalp once a day.

Key Ingredients: Plant-based exosomes, biotinoyl tripeptide-1, rosemary extract
Type: Serum

Best Rosemary Oil: Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Scalp & Hair Strengthening Oil
Price: $10 at AMAZON

Why It’s Great: According to Dr. Reszko, this oil blend is highly effective due to its combination of 30 oils, including rosemary, peppermint, castor, jojoba, tea tree, and coconut. These provide antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antifungal benefits. Rosemary and peppermint oils boost circulation for healthier hair growth and leave a refreshing scent. With regular use, it encourages new baby hairs, reduces shedding, and adds shine—all at an affordable price.

Key Ingredients: Rosemary oil, peppermint oil, jojoba oil
Dosage: Apply enough to cover the scalp, massage with fingertips, and comb through hair.
Type: Oil

Best Prescription: Hers Biotin + Minoxidil Gummy
Price: $35 at HERS

Why It’s Great: This is the first prescription hair-growth gummy, containing 1.5 mg of minoxidil to help thicken thinning hair. Minoxidil extends the hair-growth phase, enlarges follicles, and boosts blood flow, leading to thicker hair in about three months. Instead of applying a topical daily, these citrus-flavored gummies make treatment easy and enjoyable. They also include biotin for healthier hair and nails, offering a simple and tasty solution for thinning hair.

Key Ingredients: Minoxidil, biotin
Dosage: One gummy per day
Type: Medicated gummy

Everything You Need to Know

What causes thinning hair?
Many factors can lead to thinning hair, with androgenetic alopecia (male or female pattern hair loss) being the most common, says Dr. Carson T. Kirkpatrick. Other causes include stress, illness, medications, and tight hairstyles that strain follicles. Autoimmune conditions like alopecia areata can also trigger hair loss, sometimes causing scarring.

What are the best ingredients for thinning hair?
Several ingredients can help with thinning hair and promote growth:

– Minoxidil: The only over-the-counter topical with proven clinical results for hair loss. It widens blood vessels to improve blood flow to follicles, stimulating growth and delivering nutrients. It also enlarges follicles and extends the growth phase for thicker hair. While caffeine is another vasodilator in hair products, it’s not as well-supported as minoxidil. Best for genetic hair loss, minoxidil is available orally by prescription and should be avoided during pregnancy due to potential risks.

– Finasteride and Dutasteride: These oral prescriptions reduce dihydrotestosterone (DHT), the hormone that shrinks follicles. Natural topicals like saw palmetto extract can also lower DHT. They’re mainly for men with genetic hair loss, with dutasteride used for more severe cases. Women may be prescribed them under medical supervision if they are…Certain medications are not recommended for women who are postmenopausal or have had a hysterectomy because they are classified as Category X by the FDA. This means they are unsafe during pregnancy due to a known risk of serious birth defects.

Anti-Dandruff Ingredients
Ingredients like ketoconazole, zinc pyrithione, and selenium sulfide can help with dandruff. Dr. Rieder notes that anti-dandruff shampoos may reduce inflammation and support new hair growth. These ingredients also have additional benefits: ketoconazole can block DHT, which reduces sensitivity to androgens, while zinc pyrithione and selenium sulfide help exfoliate the scalp. Clearing away buildup creates a healthier environment for hair to grow.

Peptides
Drs. Kahn and Reszko suggest using peptides, especially copper peptides (GHK-Cu). These not only fight inflammation but also activate hair follicle stem cells, prolong the growth phase, and boost genes involved in hair growth and copper delivery. You can apply them topically or get more focused results with injections from a professional. Other helpful peptides include acetyl tetrapeptide, biotinoyl tripeptide-1, and oligopeptide-41, often found in products like Procapil or Capixyl. They strengthen follicles and reduce hair shedding.

Rosemary Oil
Dr. Reszko explains that rosemary oil, a natural option, improves blood flow and reduces inflammation. Some studies show it can be as effective as minoxidil over time. It’s a good plant-based choice for mild thinning, such as postpartum hair loss, or for those who are sensitive to stronger treatments.

Marine Collagen
Dr. Rieder points to research supporting marine collagen supplements. In cultures with fish-rich diets and thick hair, marine collagen is commonly consumed. One study found it promoted hair growth similar to finasteride, improving regrowth and increasing hair growth factors. It can be a beneficial addition for those with pattern baldness.

Can thinning hair grow back thicker?
Dr. Kirkpatrick says yes, as long as the cause is identified and treated. For instance, if stress causes excessive shedding (telogen effluvium) and the stress ends, hair often grows back stronger. However, with conditions like androgenetic alopecia, thinning may continue without intervention from a dermatologist. Early treatment is key to encouraging healthy new growth.

How can you tell if your hair is thinning?
Typically, women notice a wider part, while men see thinning at the crown and temples. A dermatologist can confirm thinning through a scalp exam, checking for increased shedding, thinner hair strands, and empty follicles to diagnose hair loss.

What vitamin deficiency causes thinning hair?
Although not always the cause, thinning hair can be linked to low levels of iron, vitamin D, zinc, and B vitamins (especially B12 and biotin), according to Dr. Kirkpatrick. A healthcare provider can perform blood tests to check for these deficiencies and recommend supplements if needed.Hair loss is a complex issue with many causes, making it difficult to prevent further thinning. Dr. Rieder notes that it’s not as simple as using a particular shampoo to reverse the problem. The key is to address changes in hair density as soon as they appear for better results.

Experts recommend seeing a doctor for blood tests to check for adequate protein and vitamin levels or to identify other factors like hormonal imbalances. From there, treatment options range from over-the-counter products to prescription medications and in-office procedures. Dr. Reszko favors platelet-rich plasma (PRP) for early to moderate thinning in both men and women. This involves drawing your blood, isolating platelets rich in growth factors, and injecting them into the scalp to stimulate follicles and promote healing.

Another in-office option is exosome therapy, which also contains growth factors. Additionally, daily habits play a role. Dr. Kahn suggests that thinning can be slowed, managed, or even partially reversed by improving nutrition, managing stress, addressing cellular aging with a specialist, or simply being gentle with your hair.

When choosing hair loss treatments, ingredients are crucial, but other factors matter too:

– Product Type:
– Topical (foams, serums, shampoos, masks): These target hair follicles directly. Dr. Rieder emphasizes that the treatment must reach the scalp, not just the hair, and consistency is vital for results.
– Oral: Prescription drugs and supplements address internal imbalances systemically. They’re easier to incorporate into a routine but should be discussed with a doctor to ensure suitability.
– Devices: Red-light therapy devices, such as hats, helmets, combs, and rollers, can be used at home for pattern baldness and early thinning. Dr. Rieder notes that consistent use over months may yield benefits.

– Hair Type: This is a critical factor, as hair density and texture affect product suitability. Using the wrong product can weigh hair down, dry it out, or irritate the scalp, worsening thinning. For instance, fine, straight hair may need lightweight formulas and allows easier scalp access, while dense, curly hair might require richer creams.Dr. Reszko emphasizes the importance of nourishing oils and careful parting and sectioning to apply scalp treatments effectively.

Cause of Hair Thinning

First and foremost, identifying the cause of your hair loss is crucial for proper treatment. Dr. Reszko explains, “Matching the treatment to the cause leads to better results and prevents wasting time on options that don’t work.” For instance, psoriasis, a chronic inflammatory condition, can lead to hair loss by inflaming hair follicles and disrupting healthy growth. Simply using minoxidil to combat thinning without addressing the inflammation only treats the symptom, not the underlying issue. To achieve real improvement, consult an internist or dermatologist who can help you tackle the root cause of your hair loss—both literally and figuratively.

How We Tested

Our product testing and reviews take a comprehensive approach to provide well-rounded recommendations. We start by tapping into Vogue’s extensive network of experts, including board-certified dermatologists and celebrity hairstylists, to identify standout products that professionals actually use with their clients. Combining their insights with our editorial standards, we curate the thoughtful selections you find on our site.

For thinning hair products, we evaluated them based on ingredients, product type, packaging, and their effectiveness in enhancing hair density and fullness. We conducted personal tests of each formula, supported by expert advice and user reviews, to determine which ones to recommend to you.

Meet the Experts

– Anetta Reszko, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City
– Evan Rieder, a double board-certified dermatologist and psychiatrist in New York City
– Amanda Kahn, a board-certified internist and longevity expert in New York City
– Jae Manuel Cardenas, a senior stylist at Ollin NYC Salon by Johnny Ramirez in New York City
– Carson T. Kirkpatrick, a board-certified dermatologist at Montefiore Einstein Advanced Care in New York City

Frequently Asked Questions
Of course Here is a list of helpful and naturalsounding FAQs about the top products for thinning hair and volume

Beginner General Questions

1 Whats the difference between hair thinning and hair loss
Hair thinning refers to a gradual reduction in hair strand density and diameter making your hair look less full Hair loss often involves more noticeable shedding and bald patches

2 What kind of results can I realistically expect
You can expect to see improved volume thickerlooking hair strands reduced shedding and a healthier scalp These products help manage the appearance and health of your existing hair but they are not a cure for genetic baldness

3 How long does it take to see results
Most products require consistent use for at least 4 to 8 weeks before you notice a visible difference as this aligns with the natural hair growth cycle Patience is key

4 Do I need to use all 16 products
Absolutely not That would be overwhelming and could irritate your scalp The top 16 is a curated list of options You should choose a shampoo conditioner and maybe one or two targeted treatments that fit your specific needs and budget

5 Can I use volumeboosting products on colored or treated hair
Yes many are formulated to be colorsafe Always check the product label for safe for colortreated hair or sulfatefree to ensure it wont strip your color

Questions About Product Types Benefits

6 What is a volumizing shampoo and how does it work
Volumizing shampoos are typically lightweight and free of heavy oils and silicones They clean the hair and scalp without weighing hair down and often contain proteins that coat the hair shaft to make each strand feel thicker

7 What are hair thickening serums and when do I use them
These are leavein treatments applied directly to the scalp or roots They often contain ingredients like peptides caffeine or growth factors to stimulate the follicle and strengthen hair Use them on a clean dry or toweldried scalp as directed

8 Are there any products I can use for an instant volume boost
Yes Dry shampoos rootlifting sprays and volumizing mousses can add texture and lift at the roots for an immediate