8 Dermatologist-Approved Treatments for Thicker, Stronger Hair, From $23

Choosing the right products to prevent hair thinning can feel like a hit or miss. Let’s face it — there are hundreds of options that promise a thicker or longer mane. While it can be hard to figure out  which ones will really make a difference, I spoke to hair care experts to get their insights about what products are actually worth trying. I compiled a few of their top picks including oils, shampoos, and more treatments starting at $23 designed to treat mild hair thinning. Check out these eight hair growth treatments from popular brands like Nioxin, Vegamour, and Kérastase below. 

8 Hair Growth Products That Experts Swear By

Nécessaire Scalp Serum

Board-certified dermatologist, Christina Han, M.D., recommends the Nécessaire Scalp Serum for “strengthening hair and preventing further damage” thanks to its peptide-loaded formula. This key ingredient increases blood circulation to improve density and thickness of strands. Dr. Han adds that peptides are particularly helpful for “thinning hair or hair prone to breakage from environmental exposures like hair dyes, chlorine, or sun damage.” 

Plus, this hair growth serum utilizes a hydrating hyaluronic acid to maintain a healthy scalp, which is essential for hair follicles to grow. Bonus: it has the approval of the National Eczema Association, meaning it’s free of any potentially irritating ingredients. 

Rogaine 5% Minoxidil Foam

A topical solution like the Rogaine 5% Minoxidil Foam is the “gold standard” for hair growth, according to Saami Halifan, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of SOM Aesthetics, along with dermatologist Dr. Kristina Collins and hair transplant surgeon Dr. Ross Kopelman who also recommended it. It specifically treats hereditary hair loss and thinning in women thanks to minoxidil, an FDA-approved active ingredient. 

“It works by prolonging the growth phase of the hair cycle and increasing blood flow to the scalp,” explained Dr. Kopelman. Keep in mind, though, minoxidil should not be used for those who are pregnant and it can also potentially cause increased shedding or irritation — make sure to stop using it immediately, if so.

Ordinary Multi-Peptide Serum

The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Serum is a great affordable hair growth treatment option. Dr. Collins shares that the oil’s ingredients, like peptides, hyaluronic acid, and caffeine help to “stimulate hair follicles and improve scalp hydration” for a denser appearance. Additionally, she notes that caffeine can block the effects of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that plays a role in hair loss. Shoppers even claimed their hair “tripled in thickness” and feels “stronger than ever” after a few months of using this product. 

Nioxin Hair Care System 3 Kit

Dr. Collins also advises trying the Nioxin’s Hair Care System Kits, which offer a “comprehensive regimen” designed to “improve scalp health and support existing hair growth.” There are four kits available that include a shampoo, conditioner, and scalp treatment in each — however, you can buy them separately as well. You can find options formulated for light thinning and progressive thinning for natural hair as well as for color-treated or dry, damaged hair types. 

The System Kit 3 is a personal favorite for my heat-damaged strands. It contains caffeine, peppermint oil, and niacinamide to boost blood circulation for noticeably fuller tresses in just a few uses, Plus, it instantly soothes my scalp. 

K18 Leave-In Molecular Hair Mask

James Kilgour, M.D., a dermatologist at Stanford and founder of KilgourMD, explains that fragile strands which are prone to breakage are a common reason why people tend to lose hair. That’s why he suggests using the K18 Leave-In Molecular Hair Mask at least weekly to restore your hair’s strength and elasticity, promoting a healthy environment for growth. 

This peptide-based formula mends broken bonds, which Dr. Kilgour shares are essential for “keeping our strands intact.” This leave-in treatment specifically repairs damage from bleach, color, heat, and chemical use for all hair types. To top it off, a number of celebrities like Simone Biles, Rihanna, Hailey Bieber, and Selena Gomez are also fans of this hair-strengthening mask. 

Keep in mind, though, consistency is key when it comes to achieving the best results. These hair growth products work best for those with early to moderate stages of thinning (caused by factors such as stress, hormonal changes, and aging) to prevent it from worsening over time, explained Dr. Kilgour. 

Other hair care experts also add to keep an eye out for ingredients like peptides, caffeine, rosemary, saw palmetto, and minoxidil, which are beneficial for creating a thicker, healthier mane. However, it’s important to contact your healthcare provider for any serious hair loss concerns. 

Whether you’re looking to improve your hair’s density or simply want to stop your hair from shedding, check out more expert-approved hair growth products, below. 

Vegamour Gro Hair Serum

Kérastase Intialiste Advanced Scalp and Hair Concentrate Serum

Viviscal Hair Growth Supplements