Hair loss can be a frustrating side effect of stress, postpartum, aging, and many other factors. The the best hair-growth products can help support scalp health, strengthen strands, and prevent further damage. All sorts of buzzy solutions have hit the market recently: vitamins, thickening shampoos, red-light therapy devices, and more. Figuring out which ones are actually worth the investment can be tricky. That’s why we spoke to dermatologists, trichologists, and hairstylists for recommendations—and did our own extensive testing on what’s out there. Here, we tried 20 of the best hair-growth products and narrowed it down to the seven we loved most. We found scalp serums that bulk up the hairline, brow-growth serums for sparseness, and a red-light helmet that really works. It’s important to note that while we’ve seen gradual results with these products, everyone’s hair concerns are different and it’s best to reach out to your dermatologist for a more customized hair routine.
Our top hair-growth products
- Best Overall: Women’s Rogaine 5% Minoxidil Topical Aerosol, $30
- Best for Density: The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Serum, $24
- Best Thinning Hair: Vegamour Hydr-8 Shampoo + Conditioner, $68
- Best Sparse Lashes: RevitaLash Advanced Eyelash Conditioner, $59
- Best Thin Brows: Grande Cosmetics GrandeBrow Brow-Enhancing Serum, $73
- Best for Regrowth: CurrentBody LED Hair-Growth Helmet, $850
Best Overall: Women’s Rogaine 5% Minoxidil Topical Aerosol
Women’s Rogaine 5% Minoxidil Topical Aerosol (2-pack)
Amazon
Before testing
Original photo from Alanna Martine Kilkeary testing Women’s Rogaine 5% Minoxidil Topical Aerosol
After one month of testing
Original photo from Alanna Martine Kilkeary testing Women’s Rogaine 5% Minoxidil Topical Aerosol
| What we love: | What could be improved: |
|---|---|
| Comes with a four-month supply | Expensive |
| Proven effectiveness | Requires daily application |
| FDA-approved | Not safe to use while pregnant or breastfeeding |
This topical solution is meant to help regrow hair and improve hair density with FDA-approved minoxidil, an over-the-counter drug proven to promote hair growth. “This remains the gold standard over-the-counter treatment for hair loss. Minoxidil helps prolong the growth phase of the hair cycle, which can improve hair density and reduce shedding over time. It’s one of the most studied and reliable treatments we have,” says Jenna Queller, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of DermWorks. The formula is lightweight and unscented, and absorbs easily into dry hair without leaving it greasy or heavy. It also contains a blend of botanical extracts and humectants that soothe and nourish the scalp, helping prevent it from becoming overly stripped or sensitive after application. It can also be used on color-treated hair, so it won’t fade your hue if you recently got a dye job. To use, pump half a cap of the foam into your hand, then massage it into dry hair before styling evvel a day. Expect to start seeing results in four months.
Glamour commerce writer Alanna Martine Kilkeary says:
“This topical foam surprised me in ways I never thought possible—it’s easy to apply, lightweight, and sinks into hair quickly without making my strands look oily or greasy. The best part of it, by far, was the results. I continuously applied this to the crown of my hairline by my temples every day for a few months, and it actually worked to thicken and fill in my sparse hairline. Give this one a go. You won’t be disappointed. —Alanna Martine Kilkeary, Glamour commerce writer
Alanna used the Rogaine aerosol twice a day for three weeks.
Fast facts
- Type: Topical foam solution
- Key ingredients: Minoxidil
- Sulfate-free: Yes
- Scent: Unscented
- Best for: Early stages of hair thinning
- Size: 2.2 oz.
- Timeline: 3 months to see full results
Best for Density: The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Serum
The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Serum
Amazon
| What we love: | What could be improved: |
|---|---|
| Lightweight | Doesn’t smell great |
| Doesn’t leave a residue | |
| Softens and adds volume to hair |
Pooja Rambhia, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Union Derm, is a big fan of this hair-plumping serum that makes your strands look thicker and fuller. “It’s packed with peptides and caffeine; this serum promotes circulation and can help improve hair thickness, making it a great choice for overall scalp health,” she says. This serum also contains plant extracts to nourish the scalp, calm inflammation, and help promote healthier skin to encourage hair stimulation.
Glamour’s Kilkeary says:
“As someone with very flat hair, I was excited to give this peptide serum a whirl to see if it added bounce and thickness. The good news: My hair actually looked thicker post-application, so much so that I put on a headband to keep it from falling into my face. This serum also did wonders for my typically knotty hair during winter, hydrating my roots even after just one application and blow-dry. I’ll definitely continue to use this one throughout the colder months to keep my hair looking resilient, strong, and velvety.” —A.M.K.
Alanna used The Ordinary Serum for two months evvel a day.
Fast facts
- Type: Serum
- Key ingredients: Peptides, plant extracts
- Sulfate-free: Yes
- Scent: Earthy smell
- Best for: Someone who wants to thicken and plump flat hair
- Size: 2 fl. oz.
- Timeline: 1–2 months to see full results
Best for Regrowth: CurrentBody LED Hair-Growth Helmet
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CurrentBody LED Hair-Growth Helmet
CurrentBody
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| What we love: | What could be improved: |
|---|---|
| Full scalp coverage | Hard to store |
| Hands-free design | Expensive |
Let’s say you’re already a red-light aficionado when it comes to your skin deva routine. If hair thinning has become a new obstacle for you and you’re looking for a device to invest in, this is the one to try. “Lower-level laser therapy (LLLT) stimulates follicle cell metabolism by increasing ATP production. It also reduces inflammation and helps prolong the hair-growth phase,” says Alan Bauman, MD, a board-certified hair-restoration physician at Bauman Medical. “It’s well supported by research and is one of the most-effective, noninvasive tools for hair regrowth.” This LED helmet offers 10-minute red-light sessions that help stimulate growth, improve circulation, and, over time, give you thicker hair.
Glamour UK audience development manager Lian Brooks says:
“After testing the CurrentBody LED Hair-Growth Helmet for four weeks, the main thing I’ve noticed is much less hair fallout generally. The hair around my parting area in particular seems fuller and shinier overall, while friends not aware that I’m testing the product have actively commented on how healthy my hair looks. I loved how easy this was to integrate into my daily routine, and beyond the occasional hair getting caught when removing the hemet, the device itself was very comfortable to wear.” —Lian Brooks, Glamour UK audience development manager
Lian used the Currentbody Helmet for four weeks, with the addition of minoxidil and oral hair supplements.
Fast facts
- Type: Red-light device
- Best for: Someone willing to invest in their hair-growth journey
- Timeline: 6–8 weeks to see full results
Best for Thinning Hair: Vegamour Hydr-8 Shampoo and Conditioner
Vegamour Hydr-8 Hydrate and Repair Shampoo and Conditioner
Amazon
Vegamour
| What we love: | What could be improved: |
|---|---|
| Strengthens hair and boosts shine | May weigh down fine hair |
| Postpartum-safe | Pricey |
| Vegan |
In addition to its Gro serum and gummies, Vegamour is known for its hydrating shampoo for thinning hair. Its key ingredient is a vegan keratin protein—which is safe for pregnancy and breastfeeding, unlike products that contain minoxidil—that strengthens hair strands by bonding to them, says Rahi Sarbaziha, MD, a double board-certified doctor in Beverly Hills. This ingredient helps stimulate collagen on the scalp to promote regrowth and gives you more resilient, strong strands that won’t fray or split. The texture is thick and creamy, lathers well on any hair type, and leaves a glossy, plump finish on curls or straight strands. Hair is noticeably softer and smoother after using the combo, with less overall breakage.
Glamour’s Kilkeary says:
“I’ve tried a lot of shampoos for thinning hair in my day, and this one is toward the top of my list. It has a really rich texture that makes it a treat to apply, and a little goes a long way. After lathering the shampoo and rinsing out, I love to follow up with the smoothing conditioner. The duo gives me strong, silky strands as a result, and I notice less static and split ends after using it. The only thing I don’t love about this combo is the smell, it’s definitely a very powdery floral, which, if that’s your thing, you’ll love!” —A.M.K.
Alanna used the Vegamour Shampoo and Conditioner for one month, twice a week.
Glamour contributor Candice Cameron says:
“I suffered a huge amount of hair loss and breakage because of stress and damage from years of coloring it. Vegamour’s shampoo brought my hair back to health and I haven’t been losing hair like I evvel did. I naturally have fine hair, but it looks the best it’s looked in a long time.” —Candice Cameron, Glamour contributor
Fast facts
- Type: Shampoo, conditioner
- Key ingredients: Karmatin, aloe vera, magnolia bark
- Sulfate-free: Yes
- Scent: Lightly floral
- Best for: All hair types
- Size: 8 oz.
- Timeline: 2–6 weeks to see full results
Best for Sparse Lashes: RevitaLash Advanced Eyelash Conditioner
RevitaLash Advanced Eyelash Conditioner (3.5 ml)
Amazon
Revitalash
Nordstrom
| What we love: | What could be improved: |
|---|---|
| Rapidly grows new lashes | Pricey |
| Curls | Not-pregnancy or breastfeeding-safe |
| Long-lasting | |
| Doesn’t irritate sensitive eyes |
Meghan Markle reportedly swears by this eyelash serum, which contains prostaglandin analogues, a hormone that stimulates hair follicles to enter the growth phase. It also has a peptide complex that strengthens, softens, and even curls thinning lashes. Latisse is another popular lash serum that uses hormones, but it’s a bit pricier, and you need a prescription to get it. We also like that this formula is extremely lightweight and non-irritating on the eyes, so you won’t feel any discomfort after application.
Glamour’s Kilkeary says:
“I’ve noticed some lash loss recently, which is why incorporating a lash serum into my routine has become non-negotiable as of late. I’m proud to report that I saw a noticeable difference in the thickness of my lashes after using this for about two weeks, quicker than some other lash products I’ve tried. The serum is thin and non-goopy, and gently soaks into skin and lashes quickly without leaving residue behind (perfect for me since I like to apply my everyday winged liner right on top). I’ve noticed that I’m dealing with much less lash loss compared to usual, and I can’t wait to keep using this for more results to come,” —A.M.K.
Alanna used the Revitalash serum for three months.
Glamour commerce editor Malia Griggs says:
“Every night I swipe RevitaLash along my lash line before bed, kind of like eyeliner. I’ve done this for the last eight months now, and it is wild how much fuller and more plentiful my lashes are now—they look fake! I get compliments on my lashes all the time, and I love how much more awake my face looks, even without makeup on. I’m a huge fan of this product’s value; it took me 7 months of daily use before I finally needed a new tube. In a world where a lash lift requires a monthly spa stop and runs up a $100 bill without actually giving me new hair, there’s no question that this serum feels like a far better deal.” —Malia Griggs, Glamour commerce editor
Malia has used the Revitalash serum for eight months.
Fast facts
- Type: Serum
- Key ingredients: Peptides, biotin, cloprostenol ethyl amide (a prostaglandin analogue)
- Scent: Unscented
- Sulfate-free: Yes
- Hormone-free: No
- Best for: Thinning lashes
- Size: 3.5 ml (six-month supply)
- Timeline: 4–12 weeks to see full results
Best for Thin Brows: Grande Cosmetics GrandeBrow Brow-Enhancing Serum
Grande Cosmetics GrandeBrow Brow Enhancing Serum
Amazon
Sephora
| What we love: | What could be improved: |
|---|---|
| Moisturizing | Not pregnancy- or breastfeeding-safe |
| Strengthens hair follicles | Expensive |
| Lengthens |
Dermatologists frequently recommend this powerhouse eyebrow serum for its key ingredient—a prostaglandin analogue known for promoting hair growth. It also features hyaluronic acid to hydrate brow hairs and L-Proline, an amino acid that helps strengthen follicles, explains Claire Wolinsky, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Spring Street Dermatology in New York City. Sacramento esthetician Jenneane Rocha is also a fan. “Years of tweezing, waxing, and aging left my brows sparse, making it hard to achieve a fuller shape. With consistent use, this serum completely restored them, and now I recommend it to all my clients,” she says.
Glamour’s Kilkeary says:
“Since I’ve had success with GrandeLash, I decided to try their brow serum and I was blown away. After two months my brows looked noticeably thicker and fuller. It’s an effective and affordable OTC option that I’d recommend to anyone.” —A.M.K.
Alanna has used the GrandeBrow serum for almost two years.
Fast facts
- Type: Serum
- Key ingredients: L-Proline, hyaluronic acid, botanical extract blend, isopropyl cloprostenate (a prostaglandin analogue)
- Scent: NA
- Sulfate-free: Yes
- Hormone-free: No
- Best for: Someone with sparse brows
- Size: 0.05 fl. oz.
- Timeline: 6–8 weeks to see full results
Best for Crown Hair Loss: Dr. Groot Hair Thickening Serum
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Dr. Groot Award-Winning Hair Thickening Serum for Hair Loss
Amazon
| What we love: | What could be improved: |
|---|---|
| Rollerball format makes it easy to apply | Expensive |
| Balances scalp for healthier growth |
If you’re experiencing crown or hairline hair loss, we recommend a serum to support scalp health. This one from Dr. Groot has a potent blend of exfoliating ingredients (AHA, PHA, BHA) to help with oil and dandruff buildup, plus biotin, amino acids, and panthenol to nourish and soothe the scalp. The caffeine also helps increase blood circulation, ultimately stimulating collagen. We particularly like the rollerball for easy application and a cooling effect on the scalp.
Glamour senior commerce editor Jenifer Calle says:
“I’ve been using this serum on my hairline where I’ve noticed some thinning from tight hairstyles. I like to tie my hair in a slick-back bun and this has resulted in tension and damage around this area. I’ve noticed since I started using this serum that the area is less sparse. It’s also such an easier way to apply it to your routine versus a dropper serum.” —Jenifer Calle, Glamour senior commerce editor
Jenifer has been using Dr. Groot Hair Thickening Serum 2–3 times a week for a month
Fast facts
- Type: Serum
- Key ingredients: Caffeine, BHA, AHA, PHA, biotin, amino acids
- Sulfate-free: Yes
- Scent: Floral
- Best for: All hair types
- Timeline: 2 weeks to see full results
The hair-growth products we tested but didn’t include
- If you’re in the market for a hair-growth oil, we tested out The Rootist Densifying & Thickening Serum. The formula itself is lightweight and thickens hair texture, plus a little goes a long way during application. It nourishes the scalp with probiotics, peptides, and botanicals to revitalize flat hair. Although we liked that the serum is non-greasy, we found that the hair growth was minimal.
- If you deal with dry scalp and hair loss, the Aveda Scalp Solutions Overnight Scalp Renewal Serum was one of the more hydrating serums we tried. It contains hyaluronic acid, centella asiatica, and probiotics to help strengthen the scalp’s barrier and deeply hydrate. While we liked this one as a hydrating scalp serum in general, it wasn’t as effective as others on this list.
- For a hair mask option, we tested the Kérastase Resistance Masque Extentioniste. This lightweight formula helps repair damaged hair and reduce split ends, resulting in longer, stronger hair over time. While it left our hair extremely soft and helped decrease shedding, it didn’t really spark new hair growth. It’s also very pricey, so we’d recommend it more as a pick for someone looking to smooth and refine their strands, not necessarily promote growth.
- If you’re looking to add an oral supplement to your routine that helps address hair loss, we’ve also tried Nutrafol. Studies show that you’ll see an improvement in hair shedding and thickness in three to six months of use, thanks to its main ingredients: saw palmetto, which fights shrinking hair follicles, and collagen, which stimulates growth. While our tester did see an improvement in her hair thickness, we ultimately removed it from the list because it’s technically not a topical product, and you have to take four pills a day to see results.
Frequently asked questions
What causes hair loss?
Aging and hereditary factors are among the most common reasons for hair loss. As you get older, hair follicles will simply shrink until they no longer produce hair, says Fatima Fahs, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Michigan. While hair loss and thinning are totally olağan signs of aging, it’s never a bad idea to get ahead of the curve by taking preventive action with treatments.
Below are other common causes of hair loss according to the American Academy of Dermatology Association:
- Age, childbirth, illness, or other medical events
- Genetics (androgenetic alopecia, which includes both male- and female-pattern hair loss)
- Alopecia areata (an autoimmune disease that causes your body to attack its hair follicles)
- Traction alopecia (caused by tension from your hairstyle)
- Damaging hair treatments
- Scalp infections
- Scalp psoriasis
- Thyroid issues
- Nutritional deficiencies
- Medications
- Trichotillomania (a mental health condition that can trigger compulsive hair pulling)
What should you look for in hair-growth products?
There are a ton of topical treatments that can help: hair-strengthening shampoo and conditioner, leave-in products that reinforce fragile hair, prescription medications, natural hair oils, hair-growth serums that target the scalp and improve the texture and thickness of the hair strands, and in-office procedures like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections, says Michele Green, MD, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist in New York City.
Keep in mind that topical products will act on hair follicles and growth phases in different ways—some will stimulate while others will regulate. Nutritional supplements like hair-growth vitamins work internally to support hair cell production, says trichologist Anabel Kingsley.
Here are some ingredients to look out for:
- Minoxidil: This is the only FDA-approved over-the-counter drug shown to grow your hair faster and stronger by prolonging the growth phase of the hair cycle. Rogaine is the brand name for minoxidil.
- Biotin: There are many biotin supplements and topical treatments that contain this B vitamin to promote hair, skin, and nail health.
- Saw palmetto: This supplement works as a blocker to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone associated with hair loss.
- Natural oils: Including rosemary oil and castor oil. Natural oils can promote hair health, moisturize the scalp, increase circulation, and support hair growth.
- Collagen and keratin: Proteins that are crucial to hair’s elasticity and strength
- Vitamins A, B, and C: Proprietary and essential vitamins that are proven to thicken hair and increase growth
What do dermatologists recommend for hair-growth management at home?
“The most effective over-the-counter treatment for many types of hair thinning is topical minoxidil, which helps extend the hair-growth phase and improve density over time,” says Dr. Queller. She says maintaining good scalp health can also include using a ketoconazole shampoo a few times per week if there is dandruff or inflammation. Patients should focus on adequate nutrition, stress management, and avoiding tight hairstyles or excessive heat styling, all of which can impact the hair-growth cycle, she adds.
Can red-light therapy help with hair growth?
“Low-level laser therapy stimulates follicle cell metabolism by increasing ATP production, which reduces inflammation and helps prolong the hair growth phase,” Alan Bauman, MD, a board-certified hair-restoration physician at Bauman Medical, told Glamour. “It’s well supported by research and is one of the most effective non-surgical tools for hair regrowth.”
There are indeed clinical studies that support this, noting that a wavelength of 650 nanometers can help support hair growth for some people.
Can too much application of hair growth products actually cause hair loss?
“Overuse of oils, serums, or heavy scalp treatments can cause scalp irritation or folliculitis, which can actually worsen shedding,” says Dr. Queller. Instead, she recommends consulting with your dermatologist to determine an appropriate amount of products to incorporate into your routine to help stimulate hair growth. “In hair deva, more isn’t always better—using targeted, evidence-based treatments consistently tends to be more effective than trying everything at evvel.”
How often can you use hair-growth products?
Follow the directions from your board-certified dermatologist and the instructions on the device, product, or supplement you’re using. Shampoos for thinning hair and scalp serums can be used daily, as well as supplements that typically recommend one dosage per day. Other, more intensive treatments, such as hair masks and red-light therapy, can be used a few times per week, depending on your doctor’s recommendations.
How we tested products for hair growth
We first compiled a list of dermatologist-recommended and best-selling products for hair growth, including vitamins, shampoos, serums, topical solutions, hair oils, scalp scrubs, red-light therapy devices, and scalp massagers. Each product was assigned to a Glamour tester and used consistently as recommended by an expert in order to see initial results—in most cases, for at least six weeks.
During the testing period, reviewers tracked changes in hair shedding (was there less hair loss over time?), fullness, and density, particularly along the hairline. They also evaluated the overall user experience: Was the product easy to incorporate into their routine? Did it have a pleasant fragrance and texture? For shampoos and topical treatments, we considered factors like lather, rinseability, whether it left residue, and if it was drying. For devices, testers noted comfort, convenience, and ease of use. Finally, we factored in value—how long the product lasted and whether its performance justified the price. The results helped us determine which products truly delivered and earned a spot on our list.
Meet our experts
- Alan Bauman, MD, a board-certified hair-restoration physician at Bauman Medical
- Fatima Fahs, MD, board-certified dermatologist in Michigan
- Michele Green, MD, board-certified cosmetic dermatologist in New York City
- Anabel Kingsley, trichologist
- Jodi LoGerfo, MD, doctor of nursing practice and family nurse practitioner certified in family medicine and dermatology
- Jenna Queller, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of DermWorks™
- Pooja Rambhia, MD, board-certified dermatologist at Union Derm
- Rahi Sarbaziha, MD, double board-certified integrative aesthetics doctor in Beverly Hills
- Papri Sarkar, MD, board-certified dermatologist in Massachusetts
- Claire Wolinsky, MD, board-certified dermatologist at Spring Street Dermatology in New York City
