It's an unfortunate fact of life that, for many people, at some point, their hair will start to thin. According to the Cleveland Clinic, the causes of female hair loss can range from damaged hair follicles to stress, genetics and more.
No matter what the cause, hair thinning can be a frustrating experience. So to help you get a better idea of why it might be happening and how you can tackle it at home, we consulted top dermatologists and hair stylists for their expertise.
Of course, you should always consult your doctor if the hair loss is severe or if you find remedies aren't working. But in the meantime, our experts shared the at-home solutions that you can try to restore volume and fullness to your hair.
Affordable expert pick$undefined$7.77
Tried-and-true solution$29.97$32.69
The best products for thinning hair, according to dermatologists
Find yourself dealing with chronic scalp irritation? Whether the root cause is psoriasis, dandruff or eczema, the irritation can harm healthy hair growth and even cause some hair loss, according to American Academy of Dermatology fellow Dr. Robert Anolik.
“As a consequence, an indirect therapy for hair thinning in these settings is certainly anti-inflammatory products that may reduce the irritation,” he explains. As always, make sure to consult with your dermatologist first to make sure hydrocortisone is the right approach for your unique situation.
New moms know that the postpartum hair loss struggle is real. And when Dr. Dendy Engelman previously stopped by the show, she shared that this oil is particularly "great for postpartum patients who are still breastfeeding or want a more holistic approach to hair loss," as it doesn't contain minoxidil. Though it could also work well for anyone who is looking for a more natural hair loss solution.
What you use to comb your hair can either help or hurt your strands, and that’s why a solid detangling brush is a must-have for Dr. Susan Massick, an associate professor at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. This popular version promises to minimize tangles and breakage with its flexible bristles.
With thousands of verified five-star ratings under its belt, this biotin shampoo comes highly recommended by Amazon shoppers and Dr. Liia Ramachandra, a skin care expert and former pharma executive.
“I love it since it is clean and great for sensitive scalps,” she says. “This formula is packed with a powerful blend of biotin, nettle extract, pumpkin seed and black cumin seed oil.”
The hypoallergenic, gluten-free shampoo promises to reduce hair thinning by strengthening and thickening strands, adding volume for days and reducing breakage along the way.
Rogaine is a household name for a good reason. "It's a tried-and-true solution to help combat hair loss. The foam penetrates your scalp and targets your hair follicles to reactivate the growth cycle," says Dr. Orit Markowitz, a leading dermatologist and the CEO and founder of OptiSkin.
Rogaine is great to use at the early stages of hair thinning and works pretty darn quickly. It's formulated with 5% minoxidil and a mix of botanical extracts and emollients that hydrate your scalp. The best part? The foam format is easy to use and takes just seconds to massage into strands.
Habits as simple as changing your hairstyle and halting chemical treatments might help reduce hair loss, says a study from the Mayo Clinic, but to boost growth while you give your hair some TLC, try topical solutions like this thickening tonic.
A favorite of Dr. Angela J. Lamb, a New York City-based board-certified dermatologist, Aveda’s Thickening Tonic is designed to pump up the volume of your mane in an instant, working its way from the roots to the ends. Made for thin or thinning hair, the spray is free of parabens, petrolatum and synthetic fragrance, the brand claims.
Lamb is a fan of this three-step hair-thickening system that includes shampoo, conditioner and a hair treatment that's designed to strengthen strands and volumize locks.
The set comes in different varieties for colored or natural hair and is clinically proven to reduce breakage-related hair loss by up to 91%, according to the brand. The Amazon bestseller also comes backed by over 23,000 verified five-star ratings, as well as a plethora of perfect reviews saying that it's made users' hair look “fuller and thicker.”
One reviewer adds, “After using this product for one month so far, I can honestly say I see a huge difference in my hair."
“This is a tried-and-true treatment that promotes faster, thicker hair growth. Newer formulations allow for easier, less messy application,” Dr. Leah Jacob, an assistant professor of dermatology at Tulane University, tells us. Here’s how it works: Each day, you apply some of the lightweight foam directly to your scalp where you’re experiencing hair loss. According to the brand, the product then goes to work stimulating hair follicles and encouraging growth.
“I love this product from Nulastin that increases the amount of elastin around hair follicles to firmly anchor hair and reduce premature shedding,” Engelman shared. She added that the product uses "the world’s first ethically-sourced, bio-designed elastin renewal protein and proprietary antioxidant blend: Elastaplex."
The best products for thinning hair, according to stylists
A little bit of shedding is normal, but if you seem to be losing more hair than you typically do, Salon deZEN founder Maria Elizabeth recommends using these regrowth drops.
"The 2% minoxidil in this solution actively promotes hair growth by shedding old hairs and replacing them with new, stronger ones," she says.
The FDA-approved topical solution comes with a handy dropper applicator and can be applied to your scalp two times per day. "I love that it doesn't make hair greasy and dries quickly," Elizabeth adds.
The journey towards a thicker mane can start in the shower, and this powerful shampoo might just be a great addition to your bathtime routine.
“It’s packed with vitamins, minerals and amino acids that revitalize the hair shaft, plus gentle cleansers to help whisk away scalp buildup,” says Bergamy.
If you do want to give your tresses a boost, Elizabeth loves to spray on a bit of this plumping treatment before styling.
"It was uniquely created with eyelash thickening and lengthening technology, which helps strengthen hair while also adding thickness, body and bounce," she says.
Pricey? Yes. Worth it? We think so. Christophe Robin's sea salt scrub is designed as a hybrid exfoliator and shampoo that tackles buildup while soothing sensitive scalps. Perfect for a range of hair types, the cruelty-free multitasker is known for its powerful formula, according to the brand.
"The ingredients are amazing. Sea salt helps purify scalps by removing residue, while sweet almond oil hydrates and soothes scalps," Yamamoto tells us.
It only takes seconds a day to give your scalp a little TLC, and serums are one of Sabit Hantal's favorite ways to do so. The hairstylist and founder of SH Fifth Avenue Salon swears by this scalp and hair serum to strengthen and grow hair fibers.
"This is my favorite product for thinning hair because it literally transforms your hair in a week. It uses wheat protein derivatives to repair the flexibility and elasticity of damaged hair and restore uniformity and smoothness. It makes your hair strong and shiny, while adding substance to thicken it and reducing breakage at the same time," Hantal says.
More top-rated products to help with thinning hair
Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michelle Henry previously told Shop TODAY that rosemary oil has been shown to be equivalent to 2.5% minoxidil when it comes to promoting hair growth. While experts aren’t exactly sure how it works, they believe that it can improve circulation and, as a result, lead to growth.
And this bestselling pick from Mielle features the ingredient along with biotin to help encourage hair growth from the follicle. Shop TODAY editorial assistant Madison San Miguel can vouch, who said the oil really helped boost growth in her fine, wavy hair.
As one of the most cost-effective options on our list, this scalp serum is popular with those on the search for fuller-looking hair. Formulated with a unique combination of plant-based extracts and peptide technologies, this leave-in treatment can help initiate the anagen (growth) phase of the hair cycle, while also increasing blood flow in the scalp, the brand says.
One Shop TODAY editor said she noticed her hairline looking fuller after years of damaging habits, "my hairline looks fuller and there's new growth starting to appear. I even have family and friends commenting on how long my locks have gotten."
If your hair loses volume after a wash or two, this spray promises to add tons of bounce without weighing your strands down — and commerce writer Danielle Murphy can attest to these claims. “I wish I had grabbed a ruler to measure just how high my hair ended up being, because I had never seen such fast-acting results,” she said. “I also now fully understand the meaning of hair ‘fullness’ because, along with my roots, all of my hair felt like it got a boost.” Plus, it does all this without the crunch, Murphy notes.
Deputy editorial director Ali Deabler says this product helps her hair look fuller and less flat. According to the brand, the lightweight formula is non-drying and won’t damage your cuticles, which is another good option if you’re looking for a quick fix for fuller hair. It even worked for one of our writers' fine, straight hair without weighing it down.
When it came to treating her stress-induced hair loss, editor Julie Ricevuto found a three-part routine that worked for her to help boost growth, and this shampoo was an essential part of it. "I began by using this Nioxin shampoo every day, which utilizes niacinamide, caffeine and lauric acid to help stimulate the hair follicles and support stronger hair growth from the root," she says. "It also deeply cleanses the scalp to remove buildup and create the optimal environment for hair to grow."
When it comes to managing greasy hair, we typically wouldn’t think of hair oil as a remedy. And if you have thin hair, you might notice that excess oiliness can contribute to your shedding. But according to San Miguel, this rosemary hair oil combats both for her. Since rosemary is proven to aid with hair loss, this oil is a great solution to treat sparse strands. She adds that the formula isn’t runny and is easy to apply.
One Shop TODAY writer who reviewed this thickening shampoo in an effort to return her mane to its "larger-than-life style" loved it so much that she now cycles it in her daily hair care routine.
"My hair has developed volume and shine that I haven’t seen in years," she raves.
She credits her hair's journey to fullness to biotin, the shampoo's star ingredient. This vitamin, the brand claims, is vital to "improving the keratin infrastructure of the hair" — read: denser and thicker hair.
"After a few weeks, I can't imagine not using this shampoo. It's given my roots a noticeable boost, and my locks have a bounce they've been sorely lacking," our writer adds.
This vegan formula from Vegamour uses plant extracts like mung bean, curcumin and red clover. Designed to not only soothe the scalp, but also improve the health of the follicle for improved overall hair health. The result? Less hair loss and more hair growth — a win on all accounts when it comes to thinning hair.
Editor Vivien Moon started using this serum and says she is beginning to notice baby hairs pop up after one month of use.
“The liquid-serum texture was easy to apply and, when massaged into damp hair, didn’t leave a residue,” Ricevuto says about this serum. She used this product up to three times a week and shares that she noticed results after consistent use.
According to experts, in addition to helping with skin concerns, red light can be helpful for those experiencing thinning hair. And Ricevuto used it as part of her routine to help regrow hair after experiencing stress-induced loss. "The brand recommends using it once per day for 10 minutes. Since it’s cordless, it’s super easy to use while watching TV, cleaning or even while cooking each night."
How much hair loss is normal?
Dr. Rae Lynne Kinler, medical director of Ziering Medical in Connecticut, tells us that the average person loses approximately 100 to 150 hairs per day as a result of our normal hair cycle. Anything that’s much more noticeable than that could be cause for investigation.
“If you are seeing excessively large amounts of hair on your pillow, upon combing your hair or in the drain upon showering, it may be time to look into other causes,” echoes Dr. Andrew Kwak, a hair restoration surgeon, hair loss expert and founder of The Lumen Center in Pennsylvania.
What causes hair loss in women?
Though you should also check in with a doctor to identify the exact cause of your thinning hair, there are some potential explanations.
“From an internal medicine point of view, there are many abnormalities (which we can find through a simple blood test) that can cause hair loss,” says Dr. Cameron K. Rokhsar, founder and medical director of New York Cosmetic, Skin & Laser Surgery Center. “These include low iron, anemia, changes in thyroid hormone (hyper- or hypothyroidism), changes in sex hormones (conditions such as polycystic ovary disease, which causes an increase in male hormones like testosterone) and autoimmune diseases such as lupus,” Rokhsar adds.
These are just a few of the more common causes of hair loss:
- Androgenetic alopecia: Also known as female pattern balding, this type of genetic hair loss leads to thinning and can become permanent if left untreated. “While it can happen at any age, this form of hair loss is more common during the natural aging process, during perimenopause or after menopause,” Kinler explains.
- Traction alopecia: All that tugging and pulling from styling your hair and throwing it up in a tight ponytail can wreak havoc over time. “It leads to broken hairs and lack of hair regrowth. With continued traction, hair loss becomes permanent and irreversible,” says Massick.
- Scarring alopecia: Also known as cicatricial alopecia, this type of hair loss is generally caused by inflammation that can damage or destroy hair follicles. Common underlying causes include fungal infections, burns or radiation. “It leads to scarring of the scalp with resulting hair loss and is often irreversible,” Massick explains.
- Alopecia areata: This autoimmune condition causes bald patches that usually begin as round or oval in shape. “It’s typically reversible but can range from a few small patches to the entire scalp (alopecia totalis),” Massick says.
- Telogen effluvium: This temporary hair shedding is often brought on by physical stress. “It can be seen with pregnancy, illness, major surgeries or major stresses (loss of loved one),” Jacob said. “This is the type of hair loss we are seeing post-COVID infection.”
Frequently asked questions
“When stress causes a hormone spike in our androgenic genes (cortisol, in particular, plays a role), it redirects energy needed for hair growth and therefore increases shedding," Kinler says.
According to Kwak, psychological stress can put the body into an unbalanced state. But you can rest assured that it’s not a cause for too much concern.
“The good news is that the hair loss is usually not permanent and will improve as the mind and body heal themselves,” Kwak says.
“Even though there are no studies that show that hard water directly causes hair loss, water that is too loaded with minerals can lead to hair that breaks more easily. If you live in a region where the water is very ‘hard,’ it is easy enough to install a shower head that ‘softens’ the water to counteract this possible problem,” Kwak tells us.
Let’s lead with the bad news first: Not all hair loss is preventable, especially if it runs in your family. But there are a few steps you can take to treat it if it does happen.
For example, androgenetic alopecia is a progressive condition, but with early intervention and a custom treatment program, it’s possible to mitigate and manage hair loss, Kinler explains. Treatments may include lifestyle changes, along with topicals, exosome (growth factor) injections, laser and LED light therapy.
When it comes to hair loss that can be prevented (like traction alopecia), there are a few things you can do to set your strands on the right track, like avoiding chemical treatments (such as relaxers or perms), wearing your locks in loose hairstyles and eating healthy foods.
“Make sure that you are on a well-balanced diet containing enough protein, iron, zinc and biotin. If you are unsure, you can take supplements to keep these things in tip-top shape,” Kwak explains.
Above all, remember that there are many ways to treat thinning hair, so try not to panic.
“Be kind to yourself and your self-image. If the hair thinning is distressing, see a board-certified dermatologist who can help you navigate different treatment options,” Massick says.
Our experts explain that this is generally not an issue.
“Unless it is super tight, causing traction, creating an environment that is too hot or somehow decreases the blood flow and oxygen necessary for the hair follicles, hair should grow normally with hair coverings and hats,” Kinler says.
Meet our experts
At Shop TODAY, our reporters interview a range of qualified sources and experts to capture a wide scope of perspectives on a given topic. We also ensure that all expert guidance and recommendations are provided independently and without any undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.
- Dr. Robert Anolik, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City. He focuses on cosmetic dermatology and laser skin surgery and is a dermatology professor at New York University.
- Cheryl Bergamy is a celebrity hairstylist and salon owner. She founded plant-based focused Contents Hair Care.
- Maria Elizabeth is a hairstylist and the founder and owner of Salon DeZEN. She has over 20 years of experience.
- Sabit Hantal is a hairstylist and founder of founder of SH Fifth Avenue Salon. He's been working in the field for over 10 years.
- Dr. Leah Jacob, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and assistant professor based in Tulane, Louisiana. Her focus is one general and cosmetic dermatology, as well as skin cancer screening.
- Dr. Rae Lynne Kinler, MD, is a hair transplant surgeon and the clinical director at Ziering Medical in Greenwich, Connecticut.
- Dr. Andrew Kwak, MD, is a hair restoration surgeon, hair loss expert and founder of The Lumen Center in Philadelphia.
- Dr. Angela J. Lamb, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist, as well as the Vice Chair of Operations and an associate professor of dermatology for the Mount Sinai Dermatology Faculty Practice.
- Dr. Orit Markowitz, MD, is a New York-based board-certified dermatologist and CEO and founder of Markowitz Medical. She's known for her work in minimally invasive diagnostic and treatment protocols for skin cancer.
- Dr. Liia Ramachandra, Pharm.D., Ph.D., is a doctor of pharmacy and analytical chemistry based in Canoga Park, California. She is the co-founder and CEO of EpiLynx, a skin care and cosmetics company.
- Dr. Cameron K. Rokhsar, MD, is a double board-certified dermatologist and laser surgeon based in New York City. He is founder and medical director of New York Cosmetic, Skin & Laser Surgery Center.
- Ayumi Yamamoto is a celebrity hairstylist based in New York City. Her work has been featured in Vogue Netherlands, GQ and Kenneth Cole's "Be Essential" campaign.
Why trust Shop TODAY
We selected the best products for hair loss based on dermatologists’ insights, recommendations from hairstylists, and Shop TODAY editor's tried-and-true picks. We also looked at verified customer reviews for top-rated products to help with hair thinning and restoring growth.
Medicube Collagen Jelly Cream
Medicube Collagen Jelly Cream