If you have thin hair, you are not alone. More than 20 million women in the United States experience some form of thinning hair or hair loss, according to Penn Medicine.
If you have fine hair, you've likely dealt with fried ends, a greasy scalp and breakage at some point. These common issues aren't permanent, though — the right products can help eradicate these perpetual struggles.
If you have to wash your hair every two days to reinvigorate your thin hair or just have flat, frizzy locks more often than you'd like to admit, you've come to the right place.
We've tapped the internet's go-to dermatologists, Dr. Lindsey Zubritsky and Dr. Jing (Jenny) Liu, who collectively have over 1.6 million followers.
Our experts reveal their must-try tips if you're looking to give your thin, fine hair an extra boost. Plus, we found several shopper-approved products to help your roots live up to their full potential.
What causes thin hair? | Can you regrow thinning hair? | How to care for thin hair | Expert-approved products | Editor-approved products | Bestselling products | Meet our experts
What causes hair to thin?
Don't freak out if your hair starts to thin; Liu says it can be a normal part of aging.
While there are many causes of hair thinning, Zubritsky says the two most common causes are genetics and age-related hair loss.
"Known as androgenetic alopecia, this occurs in both men and women and is a progressive hair loss and hair thinning that occurs. Another cause for hair thinning is telogen effluvium, a type of hair shedding that occurs after a particular trigger or shock to the body," Zubritsky adds.
Childbirth, starting or stopping birth control, illness, hospitalization or abrupt weight loss or change in diet are some of the other triggers that may cause hair thinning.
If you have thinning hair, you may also suffer from traction hair loss, according to Liu. Traction hair loss is thinning hair from high and tight hairstyles like updos.
Can you regrow thinning hair?
Yes, but it depends on underlying issues that may be causing your hair to thin.
"Growing hair is very metabolically demanding," Liu explains. "There is no one best treatment and it often involves multiple modalities for best result."
If there is a specific cause that can be addressed, then hair can regrow on its own, according to Zubritsky.
"If hair thinning is genetic and age-related, then there is no cure," Zubritsky says. "However, there are some treatment options to help regrow hair even in these cases."
How to care for thin hair
Just like curly hair, thin locks also have their limitations and require the same amount of care and treatment.
Cleansing
When it comes to washing, thin hair needs different products and routines than thicker tresses.
"I recommend using a volumizing shampoo and avoiding heavy conditioners as this tends to make thin or fine hair appear limp," says Zubritsky.
According to hairstylist Michelle Cleveland, look for hair products that say volumizing, body-building and root lift if you're looking to refine your hair routine. "These words usually indicate that the product will cause the hair to stand erect on the scalp."
Additionally, Liu reminds readers to focus on their scalp health and reduce oxidative stress to reduce breakage.
You can use a clarifying shampoo once a week, according to New Jersey-based hairstylist Jennifer Korab. "People with fine and thin hair should clarify hair once a week to remove the buildup of excess oils and residue on the hair and scalp," she explains. Not only does it remove lingering environmental accumulation, but it also helps with adding volume and movement to your hair.
Styling and drying
It’s important to be as gentle with your hair as possible and avoid anything that can damage your tresses like heat and certain styling practices, according to Zubritsky.
She recommends letting your hair air dry to about 80% before using a blow dryer. If you have to use a blow dryer, it’s best to use the cool setting to prevent damage to your hair follicles.
"It’s best to use a blow dryer on the cool setting to prevent further damage," Zubritsky says. "Sleeping on a silk pillowcase can also minimize friction to the hair shaft."
Getting haircuts consistently (approximately every 6 to 8 weeks) will also ensure that your ends remain healthy. By regularly pruning damaged hair, you're assisting with consistent growth. "Having split ends weighs down your hair and reduces movement," adds hairstylist Kevin Kelly.
Best products for thin hair, according to experts
Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo with 1% Ketoconazole
- Soothes eczema
- Gradual dandruff reduction
Zubritsky and Liu suggest this shampoo for people experiencing flaking, redness and itching in association with hair thinning. It is also anti-yeast and anti-inflammatory which are two of the main causes of scalp flaking, according to Liu.
Reviewers for this shampoo show it has been recommended by hairdressers, dermatologists and people with hormonal thinning hair.
"I have been struggling with dandruff and hair thinning for years. This shampoo has helped a lot," one reviewer said. "I use this shampoo once a week and alternate it with my other shampoos that help with my hair thinning. Everyone in my family and personal life has said they have seen a difference and can see that my hair thinning has reduced and that even some of my hair has grown back."
Kerastase Bain Crème Antipelliculaire Antidandruff Shampoo
- Unisex floral and citrus scent
- Made for a dry scalp
- May not work for oily skin
TikTok is in love with this shampoo as many users say it soothes their sensitive scalps.
The zinc pyrithione in Kerastase's anti-dandruff shampoo is gentle on hair while targeting inflammation and malassezia yeast, according to Liu.
This shampoo cleanses and hydrates your hair with every use and it's even sulfate-free.
One reviewer said, "This shampoo helps a lot with the issue of scalp flaking, in addition to not leaving that feeling of dryness in the rest of the hair. It’s even softer in general."
Virtue Full Shampoo
- Gently cleanses oil and buildup
- Gives temporary volume
The alpha keratin in Virtue's full shampoo helps to add temporarily fullness and volume to hair, according to Liu.
One reviewer said their thyroid issues have made their hair constantly fall out as well as thin and dry.
"This shampoo actually thickens it and gives it more body so you can’t tell it’s thin and falling out," the reviewer said. "It also helps my hair feel a lot better without weighing it down. I’m kind of obsessed with this shampoo."
Nutrafol Shampoo
- Moisturizes any dry scalp
- Softer hair over time
- Light scent
- Can be difficult to dispense
Nutrafol's gentle shampoo includes ingredients that focus on the scalp microbiome which may help with thinning hair.
Liu says this shampoo cleanses without stripping the hair's moisture barrier.
Kérastase Defense Thermique Blow Dry Primer
- Works on wet and dry hair
- Smooths hair
- Dispenser may malfunction
The Genesis collection from Kérastase helps to strengthen hair thanks to the ingredients and fortifying system targeting hair breakage that is prone to falling out.
"I personally love this leave-in styling product. This one from Kerastase instantly conditions, softens, but also offers heat protection," Liu says.
Rogaine 5% Minoxidil Foam for Hair Loss and Hair Regrowth
- Foam is easy to apply
- Expensive hair growth formula
Rogaine has been a hair growth staple for generations. Zubritsky recommends the 5% foam version because it’s the most effective over-the-counter treatment option for thinning hair.
“Foam is easier and more tolerable to use compared to other versions,” she says.
Best products for thin hair, according to our editors
Luseta Biotin & Collagen Shampoo and Conditioner
Commerce editor and producer Julie Ricevuto has tried over 100 volumizing hair products and Luseta's shampoo and conditioner are the ones that get her stamp of approval.
She says the your salon-quality hair will survive the day, and then some with Luseta's shampoo and conditioner. Biotin in the formula works to give your hair a long-lasting hair boost.
Reviews say that while this duo can be pricey, it's worth the results.
"This product makes my thin brittle natural blonde hair soft and manageable! I normally have issues with my ends because they become dry and I get dead ends like I get paid to. I like this set because I can use it regularly without it stripping my hair of all the natural oils that make it dry and limp," one verified reviewer said.
Squigs Beauty Gooseberry Delight Hair Oil
- Hydrates hair and adds shine
- Works better on dry hair
You've heard about Squigs hair oil, right? It's blowing up on TikTok with over 1.7 million videos raving over it. Social media editorial assistant Annie Shigo is just one of those devoted fans. Shigo said this oil helped her hair get thicker and grow baby hair.
Reviewers on social media say this oil from Squigs is great for people with a dry scalp and smells like a sweet orange peel.
Virtue 6-in-1 Styler
- Color-safe
- Anti-frizz effect
- Hair becomes too soft to style
Virtue's 6-in-1 styler should be your first step when adding heat to your hair. Goodbye frizz, goodbye damage. Associate partnerships editor Lauren Witonsky says this heat protectant is non-negotiable in her styling routine.
"This has helped with hair look and feel healthy without weighing it down! Plus it has the added benefit of adding shine and hydration since it’s a 6-in-1 styler."
Harklinikken Balancing Shampoo
- Restores hair shine
- Has trouble lathering
Unlock the secret to healthier, vibrant hair with Harklinikken's balancing shampoo.
I (Jannely) have noticed a regrowth like no other in my hairline.
I love this shampoo and my scalp feels deeply clean after every wash. While I have coarse hair, I have been experiencing thinning in one area of my scalp and this formula has strengthened my initial hair loss in my early 30s.
Best products for thin hair, according to shoppers
Bondi Boost Hair Growth Shampoo
- Promotes hair growth
- Peppermint scent is strong
Rosemary oil went viral on TikTok for its ability to promote hair growth, and this shampoo is packed with the star ingredient. Celebrity hairstylist Cheryl Bergamy even previously recommended it as a way to treat thinning hair.
Reviewers have dubbed this the best product line for thinning hair.
“I have naturally thin hair and I swear as I get older, it gets thinner. Now I realize it’s because I was not giving it the proper nourishment it needed. This shampoo (and matching conditioner) has totally changed the game for me. Not only have I noticed actual growth in my hair, but I also notice it doesn’t break off as easily as it did and it’s actually THICKER now,” one verified reviewer said.
Linange Energyplex Stimulating Shampoo
- Hydrates scalp
- Strengthens hair
- Best for oily hair
- Best results when paired with conditioner
This under-the-radar brand will stimulate your scalp while reactivating microcirculation. Not only will your hair feel more manageable after the first wash but also more refreshed. The formula contains panthenol, which helps in improving the texture of damaged hair.
R+Co Dallas Biotin Thickening Shampoo
- Works on all hair types
- Does not lather
- Strong scent
One Shop TODAY writer tried this thickening shampoo in order to restore her hair's volume. "It's given my roots a noticeable boost, and my locks have a bounce they've been sorely lacking," she wrote. "Plus, my hair looks shinier than ever." It's formulated with ingredients such as biotin and coconut oil, which the brand says work to improve shine and the strength of hair.
Living Proof Full Dry Volume and Texture Spray
- Helps to hold hairstyles
- Works well on sensitive skin
- Deep wash after use
- Strong scent
Turn up the volume with Living Proof’s texturizing spray that works perfectly on dry hair. It adds a weightless texture to your tresses while absorbing oil to extend that blowout. So, if you need a little pick me up before that meeting, this is a great solution to pump up your hairstyle.
Pura D'Or Anti-Thinning Biotin Shampoo and Conditioner
- Chemical-free
- Reduces frizz
- Strong smell
- Can make hair oily
Pura D'Or's bestselling hair care set is a Shop TODAY tried-and-true favorite. While the duo is formulated to treat thinning hair, the brand says it also works to reduce breakage and promote thickness. "It's moisturizing, has a nice scent, and it adds volume to hair," wrote one verified reviewer.
Ouai Fine Hair Shampoo
- Adds body and shine
- Lathers well
- Wash every 3 days for optimal results
- Has a strong fragrance
If your fine, flat hair needs a boost, switch to this Ouai shampoo. The combination of biotin, hemp seed extract and chia seed oil will unite to strengthen and turn your hair into a more voluminous texture. It also contains keratin to help reduce that frizz frenzy.
Oribe Matte Waves
- Slicks back fly aways
- Helps to hold beach waves
- A little goes a long way
- Thin formula
- May cause frizz
- Contains silicones
This Oribe bestseller is ideal for those looking for perfectly beachy waves. Customers rave about how this formula helps to simplify their hair routine, especially when you air-dry it. It contains vitamin E, Wave Resin Complex and other natural ingredients to help control frizz.
Puracy Natural Shampoo
- Works for sensitive skin
- Clarifies scalp
- Thick formula
With its plant-based formulation, this shampoo is ideal for polishing hair follicles. The formula is packed with vitamins, minerals, peppermint and essential oils to control your unruly hair.
"My hair shines and feels so light, not weighed down like many other shampoos do," said one reviewer.
Moroccanoil Clarifying Shampoo
- Great for greasy hair
- Can be drying
- May not work for color-treated hair
This clarifying shampoo from Moroccanoil is built with argan oil, lavender, rosemary, chamomile, jojoba extracts, keratin and panthenol to give your hair the nourishment it needs. With over 1,400 five-star ratings on Amazon, customers agree this power player will clean hair of buildup while hydrating your scalp.
"Itchy flaky scalp is a chronic problem I have, and my scalp has not itched once" since using this product, said one reviewer.
Kevin Murphy Plumping Rinse Densifying Conditioner
- Feels light on hair
- Masculine scent
If you're seeking another refreshing solution, this plumping rinse is the way to go. Loaded with essential ingredients like shea butter and rice amino acids, this conditioner aims to strengthen your hair from cuticle to tip while adding a voluminous boost.
Virtue Flourish Density Booster
- Fuller hair
- Minimizes hair fallout
- May not work for sensitive scalp
If you're trying to protect your hair color, this product is designed to nourish the scalp while stimulating your hair follicles. Use it on dry or damp hair and massage it into the scalp to give back some flexibility to your strands.
Key ingredients like larch wood extract, Saccharomyces Lysate and Biomimetic Signal Peptide work together to create a healthy environment for hair growth.
Hair care routine do’s and don’ts for thinning hair
Hair care (especially for thin strands) can be confusing. Our experts broke down the best way to care for your thin hair and create a routine that will keep your mane healthy.
Do’s for thinning hair
- Do wash your hair regularly based on your scalp type and avoid prolonged time periods between hair washing. Conditioning your hair and using heat or UV protectants, especially when using styling tools can help protect thin hair.
Liu says sebum, an oily substance produced by your body’s sebaceous glands to moisturize and protect your skin, can lead to oxidative stress. Oxidative stress can contribute to aging as it damages cells, proteins and DNA.
According to Liu, this oxidative stress can increase malassezia yeast which contributes to inflammation on the scalp.
- Do protect your scalp from ultraviolet radiation with sunscreen and or a hat with UPF.
Ultraviolet radiation can make the hair shaft brittle and damaged, which makes it more likely to fall out.
- Do wash your hair with lukewarm water and gently pat your hair when you get out of the shower, says Zubritsky. This will help remove dirt and grime without stripping your hair from natural oils.
Don’ts for thinning hair
- Avoid brushing your hair aggressively or frequently. Liu says excessive brushing can cause breakage.
- Avoid wearing hair in repeated tight styles.
- Be as gentle as possible to prevent further damage and thinning of your hair.
- Avoid excessive heat, tight hairstyles, over-processing, aggressively brushing or sleeping on wet hair.
How we chose
- We reached out to hair care experts who know their stuff when it comes to thin hair and used their expertise as a guide to choosing the best products. They shared their favorite formulas and key ingredients that work wonders for thin and fine hair working to thicken, strengthen and even regrow hair.
- We also searched the market and listened to what real customers had to say, checking out reviews and recommendations from people who’ve actually used these products.
- The products in this article aren't just expert-approved but are loved by users too. Our Shop TODAY team shared some of their favorite products that have made their way into their hair care routine.
Meet our Experts
- Michelle Cleveland is a New Jersey-based hairstylist at Hair Addict Salon & Extension Bar.
- Kevin Kelly is the owner of Kevin Kelly Salon. Kelly is a hair color and extension specialist based in New Jersey.
- Jennifer Korab is a New Jersey-based hairstylist. She is the creator and founder of Renaissance Salon & Spa and has worked at NYC Fashion Week shows and Miami Fashion Week shows.
- Dr. Jing (Jenny) Liu is a Minneapolis-based board-certified dermatologist. She also shares her skincare must-haves with her almost 500,000 followers on her @derm.talk Instagram page.
- Dr. Lindsey Zubritsky is a board-certified dermatologist who specializes in surgical, cosmetic, pediatric and general medical dermatology. She gives her 1.1 million followers the scoop on everything they need to know about skincare over on her @dermguru TikTok account.
