15 Best Shampoos for Thinning Hair to Add Volume And Fullness

Written by Alvira Dsouza, Hair Expert
Updated on Feb 08, 2024
Shampoos for Thinning Hair to Add Volume And Fullness
The products curated for this article are independently chosen by the editorial team. If you make a purchase through the links mentioned below, we may receive a commission. Check out our product research & curation process

With the rising amount of pollution, concerning lifestyle changes, bad food habits, underlying health issues, and of course hereditary problems, people across generations are dealing with the most common problem — hair thinning! Keeping this in mind, we have rounded off these best shampoos for thinning hair based on our observations after putting them to the test. These shampoos are packed with active components and natural ingredients that take the upper hand for boosting hair growth by encouraging blood flow while protecting the mane from environmental aggressions, dry scalp, split ends, frizz, and whatnot! 

As Stephanie Anderson, an American haircare entrepreneur said, “Most people aren't concerned about hair loss until it affects them or someone they care about." Well, she couldn't be more right! Our hair may not be neglected, but it is not given enough attention to prevent hair problems in the first place. Now, if your hair starts thinning, it is time to act on it instead of freaking out! Take a look at the products that we've curated for you to unleash the benefits—

What is Hair Thinning?

When the scalp and hair aren’t provided with the right vitamins and nutrients, the hair follicles start to fizzle out and thin. Together with genetics, vitamin deficiency, stress, and several medical disorders, hair loss or hair thinning can be caused by several other reasons (1)(2). 

Hair loss affects both men and women equally often, and there are several potential causes. Many herbs and natural medicines, including fenugreek, amla, shikakai, and brahmi are excellent for coveted hair volume thanks to their potency to promote hair growth. And the good news is that all are included in the best shampoos for thinning hair that come without harsh chemicals and work excellent for sensitive scalps.

15 Best Shampoos for Thinning Hair

Get ready to energize your hair and scalp with the PURA D'OR Anti-Thinning Biotin Shampoo. Fortified with over 24 ingredients, the shampoo harnesses the goodness of aloe vera, amla, vitamin E, biotin, and argan oil. Saw palmetto is key to promoting hair thickness, red Korean seaweed defends growth and He Shou Wu(a Chinese herb) improves hair health from roots (3)(4). All these nutrients come packed together in a pump bottle for easy use and disposal whenever needed - making one of the best shampoos for thinning hair!

Key Ingredients: Saw palmetto, He Shou Wu, red Korean seaweed, vitamin E, biotin, and argan oil

Sulfate-free: Yes

Pros
  • Controls breakage
  • Improves hair quality
  • Gluten-free
  • Free of parabens
  • Rich ingredients
Cons
  • None
  • Best for Scalp Health

    Nioxin System 2 Scalp Cleansing Shampoo

    Nioxin System 2 Scalp Cleansing Shampoo
  • You don't have to pick between scalp health and a pleasant-smelling shampoo as Nioxin's shampoo is well renowned for its fresh and clean aroma. Because it strengthens hair and enhances hair structure as part of a hair-thickening treatment method with a peppermint twist, this shampoo is excellent for hair growth. The Cleanser Shampoo System 2 from Nioxin is a treatment set,  keep in mind that for maximum results, customers may want to use it in conjunction with the other treatment items.

    Key Ingredients: Peppermint and minoxidil 

    Sulfate-free: No

    Pros
    • Enhances hair structure
    • Fresh scent
    • Improves scalp health
    • Improves hair growth
    Cons
    • Not ideal for color-treated hair
  • Maple Holistics Biotin Shampoo

    Maple Holistics Biotin Shampoo
  • Maple Holistics takes the upper hand at coming up with a one-stop solution for both genders in terms of hair care. This shampoo, in tandem, is not only equipped with a formula that treats damaged hair but it is also packed with a tantalizing aroma of sandalwood to soothe your senses as you use the product. Loaded with biotin powder, pure essential oils, and moisturizing ingredients, the shampoo further nourishes the scalp while helping your strands to appear bouncy and fuller. It also infuses a great amount of moisture that keeps the hair hydrated for a really long time. To sum up, taking care of your hair from root to tip has never been this easy!

    Key Ingredients: Extra-strength biotin, keratin, and zinc

    Sulfate-free: Yes

    Pros
    • Makes hair bouncy
    • Increases shine
    • Infuses moisture
    • Paraben-free
    Cons
    • Packaging could be better
    • Tantalizing scent
  • Best for Color-treated Hair

    GrandeHAIR Peptide Shampoo

    GrandeHAIR Peptide Shampoo
  • Bring life to your locks with this amazing shampoo by GrandeHair. It has Hexapeptide-11 that reduces the damage caused to your tresses due to oxidative stress, repairs damaged hair, and strengthens hair follicles to leave you with shinier and healthier hair. It exfoliates the scalp without leaving the hair dry or irritated. Plus, the shampoo is safe for color-treated hair. So, don’t miss out on this innovative product for thicker and luscious hair. 

    Pros
    • Color-safe formula
    • Pleasant citrus scent
    • Safe for men & women
    • Exfoliates the scalp
    Cons
    • Doesn’t lather well
  • Best Moisturizing Formula

    R+Co Television Perfect Hair Shampoo

    R+Co Television Perfect Hair Shampoo
  • The R+Co Television Perfect Hair Shampoo is particularly designed to give you gorgeous, camera-ready hair. It is enriched with the goodness of juniper berry extract, babassu seed oil, and glycerin — all of which help strengthen hair roots, reduce scalp irritation, lock in moisture, tame frizz, curb dandruff, detoxify hair follicles, and support hair growth. All these nutrients work together to restore the natural pH levels of the scalp and add volume to your tresses. Moreover, the pleasant fragrance of the shampoo enhances your shampooing experience and evokes a feeling of calm. 

    Pros
    • Soothing floral scent
    • Strengthens hair follicles
    • Hair-nourishing ingredients
    • Adds shine to the hair
    Cons
    • Might not be suitable for dry hair
  • Best Hypoallergenic Shampoo

    re:line Biotin Thickening Shampoo

    re:line Biotin Thickening Shampoo
  • re: Line Biotin Thickening Shampoo helps achieve better scalp health so you may start growing more hair. Botanicals such as rosemary, aloe vera, and coconut oil, are well-known ingredients to regrow and prevent hair loss. This hypoallergenic shampoo for hair loss is the perfect pick for sensitive and delicate scalps - that react instantly to harsh chemicals. The perfect balance of B-complex vitamins and DHT blockers makes this one of the best shampoos for thinning hair!

    Key Ingredients: Biotin, rosemary oil, coconut oil, aloe vera, hemp seed oil, glycerine, and rice protein.

    Sulfate-free: Yes

    Pros
    • Improves hair quality
    • Lightweight
    • Pleasant scent
    • Moisturizes the strands
    • Softens hair
    Cons
    • Might dry out the hair
  • Best Cruelty-free Shampoo

    Keranique Scalp Stimulating Shampoo

    Keranique Scalp Stimulating Shampoo
  • Keranique Scalp Stimulating Shampoo is a lightweight hair cleanser that's appreciated for improving hair elasticity. Infused with keratin amino complex, panthenol, and ginseng root extracts - your hair receives the better end of the stick for nourishment and care. The product, free of parabens, works as a shield against environmental stresses that could cause your hair to break. The formulation takes the prize for being the ideal pick for thinning hair as it doesn't weigh it down or drown it with moisture!

    Key Ingredients: Biotin, panthenol, ginseng root, peppermint oil, and glycerin

    Sulfate-free: Yes

    Pros
    • Lightweight
    • Improves hair elasticity
    • Free of parabens
    • Cruelty-free
    • Controls frizz
    Cons
    • Might roughen hair
  • Best Volumizing Shampoo

    Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Scalp Care Anti-Thinning Shampoo

    Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Scalp Care Anti-Thinning Shampoo
  • Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Scalp Care Anti-Thinning Shampoo does wonders for color-treated hair needing instant volume and fullness. The Regeniplex active ingredient complex works extensively to stimulate the scalp and strands. It incorporates green plum, pea peptides, red clove extracts, turmeric, and ginseng. Plus, the SLS-free and sulfate-free solution leaves your hair smelling as fresh as a bouquet and works gently on every scalp and hair, renewing it thoroughly. So don't miss out on this ingenious product for thicker, more extended strands.

    Key Ingredients: Green plum, pea peptides, red clove extracts, turmeric, and ginseng

    Sulfate-free: Yes

    Pros
    • Strengthens hair
    • Detangles hair
    • Pleasant scent
    • Vegan
    • Gluten-free
    Cons
    • Watery consistency
  • Revita Hair Density Shampoo

    Revita Hair Density Shampoo
  • Appropriate for couplings - the Revita High-Performance shampoo offers results for men and women concerned about hair thinning. Revita produces a shampoo that effectively encourages hair development by including DHT blockers, caffeine, biotin, antioxidants, moisturizing molecules, and amino acids. It claims to work first on the scalp and then smoothens the rough strands to make your hair soft and silky. To improve density and volume, try opting for this intensive formulation for all hair types at home!

    Key Ingredients: caffeine, biotin, antioxidants, and amino acids

    Sulfate-free: Yes

    Pros
    • Promotes scalp and follicle vitality
    • Softens hair
    • Free of parabens
    • Volumizes hair
    Cons
    • Small size
  • OGX Thick & Full Biotin & Collagen Shampoo

    OGX Thick & Full Biotin & Collagen Shampoo
  • Your fine hair needs this biotin-infused shampoo that claims to be loaded with exotic ingredients to give you the desired results. It is a nutrient-rich volumizing shampoo that helps your hair appear fuller and thicker without penetrating any harmful ingredients. Addedly, the product provides much-needed hydration while ensuring that it doesn't weigh down the hair. The best part? The soothing scent of bergamot, jasmine, and vanilla ensures a great experience as you use the product.

    Key ingredients: Vitamin B7, biotin, and collagen

    Sulfate-free: Yes

    Pros
    • Ensures thicker hair
    • Adds shine
    • Soothing scent
    • Nutrient-enriched
    • Makes the hair healthier
    Cons
    • Texture could be better
  • Best for Thickening Hair

    Surface Awaken Therapeutic Shampoo

    Surface Awaken Therapeutic Shampoo
  • Wake up the strands with the energizing power of Surface Awaken Therapeutic Shampoo. The product claims to deal with alopecia, psoriasis, dandruff, eczema, and itchy, oily scalp, which are some of the main causes of thinning hair. The clean and light solution with Babassu oil and amaranth protein cleanses the scalp with a rich lather and strengthens your hair deep within. You may use the shampoo to try to grow your hair out thicker, or you can utilize the brand's line of products together for greater effectiveness. 

    Key Ingredients: Babassu oil, amaranth protein, peppermint, coconut, capsicum, 

    Sulfate-free: Yes

    Pros
    • Thickens hair
    • Nourishing ingredients
    • Rich lather
    • Doesn't dry out hair
    Cons
    • Bottle might leak
  • BOSLEY MD Revive Nourishing Shampoo

     BOSLEY MD Revive Nourishing Shampoo
  • Though on the pricier side, the BOSLEY MD Revive Nourishing Shampoo's solution makes it worth the value. Fortified with ingredients like Saw palmetto, rosemary extracts, and sunflower seed extracts work extensively to revive the thin, lifeless strands. The Saw palmetto promotes growth and prevents shedding as a DHT blocker, and rosemary extracts ease scalp inflammation and augment circulation. Loved by customers for reducing hair loss and thinning, this product is a must-have for all!

    Key Ingredients: Saw palmetto, rosemary extracts, and sunflower seed extracts

    Sulfate-free: Yes

    Pros
    • Lightweight
    • Removes buildups
    • Reduces inflammation of the scalp
    • Ideal for color-treated hair
    Cons
    • On the pricier range
  • Best for Curly Hair

    Mokita Naturals Biotin Shampoo

    Mokita Naturals Biotin Shampoo
  • Mokita Naturals Biotin Shampoo is a potential upgrade to your current hair loss shampoo. This shampoo not only increases fullness from tip to base. This shampoo, which has panthenol and biotin to help thicken hair, has been hailed by several Amazon reviewers as a miracle cure. Infused with argan oil, pro-vitamin B5, and botanical extracts, the clarifying shampoo restores a healthy balance in your hair and strengthens weakened roots and strands - making it the best shampoo for curly thinning hair!

    Key Ingredients: Argan oil, pro-vitamin B5,  panthenol, and biotin

    Sulfate-free: Yes

    Pros
    • Increases volume
    • Softens hair
    • No chemical scent
    • Moisturizes the hair
    Cons
    • Not hypoallergenic
  • Best for Thin Hair

    SHAPIRO MD DHT Fighting Shampoo

    SHAPIRO MD DHT Fighting Shampoo
  • By encouraging the growth of new hair follicles, the caffeine and saw palmetto berries in SHAPIRO MD DHT Fighting Shampoo help to lessen hair loss. Dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone associated with hair loss, is combated by this cleanser's green tea extract and other natural ingredients. The formula is made to invigorate the hair follicles without cleansing out the natural oils and moisture present in your strands. It's the best shampoo for thinning hair women and men could ask for!

    Key Ingredients: Green tea extracts, caffeine, and saw palmetto berries

    Sulfate-free: Yes

    Pros
    • Deals with thin hair
    • Reduces hair fall
    • Smooth to apply
    • Rinses out easily
    Cons
    • Might dry out hair
  • Keeps Thickening Shampoo

    Keeps Thickening Shampoo
  • Infused with biotin, caffeine, green tea, and saw palmetto berries, Keeps Thickening Shampoo targets individual strands of hair rather than just the roots. This shampoo works by using the ingredients like protein and collagen to strengthen and thicken each strand. This thickening shampoo cleanses buildup like sweat and dirt and reconstructs the natural proteins of the hair for fuller strands. It's the pick for men looking to fight back against the early thinning of hair!

    Key Ingredients: Biotin, caffeine, green tea, saw palmetto berries, protein, and collagen

    Sulfate-free: Yes

    Pros
    • Ideal for men
    • Thickens hair
    • Softens hair
    • Rinses easily
    Cons
    • No active ingredients

    Now that you have already taken a look at the products, make sure you know the parameters to choose the best one among these -

    How to Choose the Best Shampoo for Thinning Hair?

    Here is how you can choose the best shampoo for thinning hair -

    • Mild formulation: Thinning hair requires a lightweight and breathable formula since heavy contents can tend to drown the strands. Light and mild formulations help keep a balance between nourishing and penetrating the strands to provide nutrients. 
    • Safe ingredients: A further factor in determining the state of your hair after shampooing is the ingredients. Although biotin and argan oil are vitamin-rich for thinning hair, it is combined with a few additional components to provide more effective effects. Fatty acids, antioxidants, botanicals, and natural extracts - Brahmi, green tea, jojoba oil, almond oil, ginseng, rosemary oil, shikakai, and amla are all naturally occurring substances that function best when combined in shampoos for thinning hair.
    • Consistency: Last but not least, the consistency of the shampoo matters the most. The thick or heavy solution might work on thicker and fuller hair since it can handle the texture and weight of the formula, without flattening the hair. We recommend opting for thin consistency or lightweight formulas that feel like a cloud rests atop your head.

    How Do Thinning Hair Shampoos Work?

    Here is how thinning hair shampoos actually work - 

     

    Though hair-thinning shampoos won't stop hair loss permanently, they can however help with hair growth. These shampoos encourage hair growth and boost thickness and volume. These shampoos for thinning hair cleanse and nourish the strands, thus making them fuller and stronger.

    Cleanse: Washing hair is a simple act of cleansing the scalp and hair from dirt, grime, sweat, excessive oils, and grease that stick and smell after a long time. The buildups cause clogged pores which in turn slows down hair growth. Washing your hair properly can help clear the way for better, thicker hair.

    Nourish: Shampoos containing DHT blockers are supposed to reduce DHT, a hormone known to cause hair follicle shrinkage. Ingredients like Brahmi, green tea, jojoba oil, almond oil, ginseng, rosemary oil, shikakai, and amla are added to formulations to nourish the strands when applied. As a result, there is a tiny probability that using these shampoos will assist in reducing hair loss.

    Conclusion

    Try opting for the best shampoos for thinning hair before it turns into a haystack. Thinning hair requires care and when your hair care routine reflects the same, you can skip the drama and "fluff up" the strands. Be sure to read the labels and opt for a light formula when it comes to the shampoos and always opt for the doctor’s word. The truth is results don't show on the first day, so have patience and choose your ideal shampoo for the superior results your locks deserve!

    FAQ's

    Can hair grow back after thinning?
    Folks dealing with thinning hair due to insufficient vitamins, stress, pregnancy, or other nongenetic causes may see regrowth. If experiencing any problems with thinning, we suggest consulting a doctor.
    Which shampoo is best for hair regrowth and thickness?
    PURA D'OR Anti-Thinning Biotin Shampoo is the best for hair regrowth and thickness as its strong nutrient formulation works to regrow broken, lifeless strands.
    Can shampoo stop hair thinning?
    Unfortunately, hair loss shampoos will not stop hair loss. They may, however, aid in encouraging hair growth and boosting thickness and volume.
    How often should you shampoo if you have thin hair?
    Avoid daily washing, opt for a twice - thrice-a-week regime to thicken and moisturize the hair to make it fuller.
    How did I stop my hair from thinning?
    Try adding hair massaging oils, serums, and well-formulated shampoos and conditioners to your hair care routine to help combat thinning hair problems.
    Should I wash my hair more if it's thinning?
    Thinning hair has nothing to do with shampoos. A basic hair cleansing routine should be maintained irrespective of the hair type. Typically, washing the hair 2-3 times a week is suggested.
    How long does it take for hair-thinning shampoos to work?
    Depending on the severity of the condition, a hair-thinning shampoo may take around four to eight weeks to work on your hair.
    Are thickening shampoos bad for thinning hair?
    Well, thickening shampoos have ingredients that make your hair voluminous and appear bouncier. However, the properties in the shampoo can build up in the hair follicles with time and in turn, may block new hair growth.

    Why Trust Pinkvilla

    Everyone dreams of having beautiful and bouncy hair, but due to various factors like air pollution, UV rays, poor lifestyle habits, stress, and genetics, people start experiencing thinning of hair at an early age. Our haircare expert, Alvira, says that there are shampoos in the market that have a gentle formula and are packed with hair-friendly ingredients that help strengthen hair follicles and prevent thinning of hair. Being a haircare coach, she knows the consequences of using the wrong shampoos, especially if you have delicate hair. Hence, she has created this list of the best shampoos that cater to all the needs of people experiencing hair fall problems. She personally loves using the Mokita Naturals Biotin Shampoo as it doesn’t have an artificial scent, soothes the scalp, and adds volume to the hair. Plus, it's suited for curly hair too.

    1. A Marine Protein-based Dietary Supplement for Subclinical Hair Thinning/Loss-https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4738482/ 
    2. Hair Loss in Women-https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMcp072110 
    3. A DETAILED SAFETY ASSESSMENT OF A SAW PALMETTO EXTRACT-https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2518869/ 
    4. NOVEL HERBS USED IN COSMETICS FOR SKIN AND HAIR CARE-http://www.plantarchives.org/SPECIAL%20ISSUE%2020-1/234__3784-3793_.pdf
    Author BIO
    reviewer
    Alvira Dsouza
    Hair Expert

    With a keen eye for detail and a passion for hairstyling, Alvira is a certified Hair Expert who brings the latest tre More