When it comes to hair loss, topical minoxidil — the active ingredient found in popular over-the-counter drugs such as Rogaine — is one of the most clinically proven and expert-endorsed solutions for hair growth. That said, the drug is not without some drawbacks for some people.
Minoxidil belongs to a class of drugs known as vasodilators, which, while generally well tolerated, may contribute to a fast heartbeat in rare cases. Others abandon the treatment altogether because it can be bothersome to apply to the scalp every day, and some people report itching, flaking or an unpleasant texture.
While minoxidil is the only hair-loss drug that’s FDA-approved for both men and women, there are alternative products that can help combat hair thinning by creating the optimal conditions to support hair growth.
Ahead, we compiled a list of these products using recommendations from trichologists and board-certified dermatologists, reviewers and previous HuffPost coverage. The experts consulted for this story do not necessarily endorse the products ahead unless otherwise noted.
1. Biotin-Infused Shampoo by Maple Holistics
A lesser-known hair care brand, Maple Holistics offers a biotin shampoo that stands out because it contains biotin plus rosemary oil, evening primrose oil and jojoba. This combination of ingredients encourages hair growth by nourishing the scalp and hydrating the hair strands. Even from the first wash, users claim their fine hair looks and feels instantly thicker, more volumized and healthier, without having to add extra steps or products into their existing routine. With extended use, others report a significant reduction in hair fall during washing, quicker hair growth, and even new hair growth in previously sparse areas.
2. DHT-Blocking Shampoo with Biotin and Pumpkin Seed Oil by Pura Dor
The Pura Dor shampoo is an additional DHT-blocking option that has been well-received among its users. It is an aloe vera-based formula containing saw palmetto, nourishing argan oil and tons of other hair-loving ingredients. It also features pumpkin seed oil, an ingredient that dermatologists have previously said might be helpful for some people experiencing hair thinning.
3. Budget-Friendly Scalp Scrub with Soothing Ingredients by Mielle
Dermatologists previously explained the potential hair growth benefits of using a scalp scrub, which helps create more favorable conditions for optimal hair growth. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Divya Shokeen noted that soothing ingredients like aloe, tea tree, or peppermint help calm irritation and support a balanced scalp environment. She prefers sugar-based scrubs over large, coarse physical exfoliants because they dissolve easily with water, preventing over-scrubbing. Based on her guidance, we selected the Mielle rosemary mint clarifying sugar scrub, which contains rosemary oil that can potentially accelerate hair growth by improving blood circulation in the scalp, as well as nourishing hydrators like shea butter.
4. DHT-Blocking Shampoo by Advanced Trichology
Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is a hormone thought to be responsible for hair shrinkage and loss. This shampoo is formulated with saw palmetto, a botanical ingredient that inhibits DHT activity and promotes hair growth. Endorsed by the American Hair Loss Association, this clinically developed shampoo targets three different zones of hair loss, including those from inflammatory and nutritional causes.
5. Viral Hair Strengthening and Scalp Oil by Mielle
The viral Mielle oil is a rosemary mint scalp and hair strengthening treatment that has become TikTok-famous for its anecdotal claims surrounding improved hair health and growth. It is Amazon’s second-best seller in the beauty and personal care category. The biotin-infused formula contains nutrient oils, including jojoba, grape seed and evening primrose, all of which address dryness and brittle-feeling hair along with other scalp health factors that can affect hair retention.
6. Exfoliating Scalp Mask by Nutrafol
This scalp scrub, suggested by Dr. Dara Spearman, is the Nutrafol Build-Up Blocker Exfoliating Scalp Mask. Suitable for all hair types, it is especially beneficial for those prone to oily scalp or hair thinning. Formulated with fruit-derived alpha hydroxy acids and jojoba esters, it controls oil production and removes dead skin cells. Intended to be used as a rinse-off mask, it also contains glycerin for hydration and amino acids to strengthen hair strands.
7. Silicone-Bristled Scalp Massager
Former shopping writer Haley Zovickian previously wrote about how this viral shampoo brush and scalp scrubber has made her hair cleaner and reduced flakes. According to Los Angeles-based trichologist Anna Asarte, the massager stimulates blood flow, promoting follicle health and growth. Reviewers agree that this silicone-bristled brush has created new hair growth while also extending the amount of shampoo required for a full lather.
8. Liquid Multivitamin for Thicker Hair by Mary Ruth's
While supplements and vitamins are not regulated by the FDA, the promising claims of this powerful liquid vitamin are impressive. It contains biotin, a B vitamin linked to hair, skin and nail growth, and folate to help the body make new cells. It also contains a unique blend of biotin and silicon (inositol-stabilized arginine silicate) that enhances blood flow and circulation and boosts nitric oxide, helping the body absorb more nutrients. Several HuffPost editors swear by this fruity-flavored supplement for providing lustrous locks. Consult with your doctor before taking it.
9. Gold-Standard Dandruff Shampoo by Nizoral
Experts regularly praise Nizoral shampoo as a gold-standard dandruff treatment. The active ingredient is 1% ketoconazole, which has antifungal properties. Although evidence is limited, ketoconazole may help reduce inflammation and hormonal influences that contribute to hair loss, in addition to alleviating dandruff. Reviewers assure that unlike other medicated anti-dandruff shampoos, Nizoral leaves tresses soft and clean-smelling.
10. Red Light Therapy Cap by iRestore
Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Brendan Camp previously highlighted the effectiveness of red light therapy on hair growth. Low-level light therapy (LLLT) uses the biological effect of light on hair follicles, impacting mitochondria inside hair follicles to increase cellular energy and protein production. The iRestore treatment helmet is an FDA-cleared laser system that uses 282 lasers and LED lights to stimulate hair follicles for new growth. This hands-free device can be used to maximize results of other hair loss treatments like minoxidil and is useful for conditions like alopecia, receding hairlines, pattern baldness and thinning hair.
The original version of this story was published on HuffPost at an earlier date.
