We all dream of having thick, luxurious locks, but for some of us, it isn't always possible, whether you are struggling with regrowing thinning hair or facing issues like dry and brittle hair that comes with the onset of menopause. This is where some additional help like the best supplements for hair growth or figuring out what hair growth products work best for you can enhance the thickness, volume and overall health of your hair. When it comes to investing in a haircare routine that helps your locks grow faster, a good hair growth shampoo with the right ingredients is essential.
If you have thinning hair or are losing your hair rapidly, it can feel devastating. Our hair expresses personality as well as personal style and is an element that’s been a part of our identities our whole lives. You don't go a single day without thinking about your hair - it's a big deal for all of us. That is why it is only natural for us to try any remedy to improve our hair health and enhance growth – be it opting for a gentle hairbrush for thinning hair to prevent breakage or experimenting with the benefits of rosemary oil for hair growth.
The best hair growth shampoo at a glance:
• Best hair growth shampoo for everyday use: Ultrax Labs Hair Surge - Buy now on Amazon UK
• Best hair growth shampoo bundle: Watermans Hair Growth Shampoo and Conditioner - Buy now on Amazon UK
• Best hair growth shampoo on a budget: Pantene Grow Strong Hair Loss Treatment - Buy now on Amazon UK
There are several hair growth shampoos on the market that are perfect if you are looking to strengthen and grow your hair. But it is important to know that different products serve different purposes, targeting different concerns and hair types. So you may find it hard to navigate through hundreds of options to figure out which one is the best for you. Perhaps, a hair growth serum might be a better alternative, depending on your specific hair concerns.
For more expert insight on what to keep in mind when choosing the best hair growth shampoo for you, we spoke to Gail Waterman, a former hairdresser who has been working in the hair industry for over 32 year and co-founder of Watermans Hair – a brand that specialises in creating haircare products for helping people experiencing different kinds of hair loss.
Do hair growth shampoos actually work?
“Hair growth shampoos work by feeding the hair follicles with nourishing ingredients to revitalise dry and lifeless hair, bringing it back to its former glory,” Gail explains.
This is where checking the ingredients and making sure they work to address your specific hair concerns and suit your hair type becomes important.
We also spoke to Kameese Davis, CEO and Founder of Nylah's Naturals, a haircare brand that targets issues related to hair loss and hair growth.
"A shampoo’s primary purpose is to cleanse the scalp and hair, so while it can contain ingredients that promote a healthy environment for growth, it won’t be as effective on its own. I believe in taking a 360° approach to hair growth, combining topical treatments like the best hair growth serums with consistent scalp care and tools like dermal rollers to stimulate hair follicles. It’s that combination of cleansing, nourishing, and activating the scalp that really makes the difference," she says.
What to look for in a hair growth shampoo
"When choosing a shampoo to support hair growth, it’s important to look for a formula that deeply cleanses the scalp without stripping it. A healthy scalp is the foundation for strong, thriving hair. I always recommend sulphate-free shampoos as they’re much gentler and help maintain the scalp’s natural balance. You want ingredients that not only remove build-up but also fortify the strands from root to tip," Kameese says.
"Watermans' hair growth shampoo uses ingredients such as biotin, caffeine, Argan oil, rosemary Extract, allantoin and hydrolyzed lupin protein to promote fuller-looking hair. These are all nourishing ingredients you can look for in a good hair growth shampoo. Vitamins and antioxidants such as H, B7, B3, B6, C and E are known to be beneficial for the scalp while also protecting it and strengthening our hair,” Gail says.
"I look for clinically proven ingredients like Pea Protein, AnaGain™, and Capilia Longa, which are all backed by research for their ability to improve density, reduce shedding, and extend the hair growth phase. You’ll find these powerful actives in products like the Thrive Triple Action Hair Growth Serum and Flourish Intelligent Hair Growth Serum from Nylah's Naturals. When choosing what to trust with your hair, it’s important to focus on ingredients rooted in science, not just trends," Kameese adds.
To get you started, we've rounded up the best and most highly rated hair growth shampoos on the market with real reviews from real people who have been struggling with thinning hair. We are also currently in the process of testing all these shampoos with the help of our base of testers who are using and reviewing them.
Best hair growth shampoo
Best hair growth shampoo for everyday use
This shampoo is easily the best-rated on Amazon, with over 10,500 reviews at the time of writing. It contains caffeine, ketoconazole and saw palmetto to stimulate the hair follicles and leave your hair feeling thicker and looking healthier. Use Ultrax Labs hair surge five times per week for the best results.
Customer review: "I've been using this shampoo since June and I'm very pleased with the results, as my hair is just starting to look a little thicker. It's not an enormous difference, but I wasn't expecting miracles. Yes the price is a bit outrageous, but I still haven't finished the bottle I purchased in June as I find that one pump is enough to wash my short hair, and the bottle feels like it's got a few weeks left to go before it runs out."
Pros
- Contains caffeine and ketoconazole
- Can be used as much as you like
Cons
- Shampoo doesn't foam up well
Best hair growth shampoo for fine hair
www.boots.com
The UKHAIR Growth Shampoo promises to revive fine, thinning hair and promote hair growth. This shampoo was tested and reviewed by Irene Bates and she said, “As someone with naturally fine, limp hair that often lacks body, this sounded like a great product to try. I’m a retired lady of about 70 years old who is very active and regularly attends fitness classes and swimming. Because of this, my hair gets washes regularly and I found I need a generous 2p coin-sized blob to get an effective cleanse with this shampoo.”
The bottle is a simple upright design with a flip-top cap. The labelling is neat and easy to read too. The shampoo has a fresh scent—noticeable but not overpowering—and it left a subtle cooling sensation on the scalp after use. It rinsed out easily and didn’t leave behind any residue or heavy feeling. “What stood out the most was how soft and light my hair felt after washing. It had a gentle shine and a bit more bounce than usual. After about a week, I noticed my hair felt just a touch thicker,” she added.
If you’re looking for a quality shampoo that leaves hair feeling healthy and are happy to pay a little extra, this could be nice. However, if you’re expecting instant volume or
thickening miracles, it might fall short. “I received a few compliments from friends who said my hair looked “fresh” and “healthier,” she added.
Pros
- Leaves hair feeling soft and smooth
- Pleasant scent
- Suitable for fine hair
- Rinses cleanly with no residue
Cons
- Vague instructions on how much to use
- Might require longer-term use for fuller benefits
Best hair growth shampoo bundle
In search of the definition and volume for fine, thin, breakable hair? The Watermans Hair Growth Shampoo and Conditioner could be the perfect haircare duo for you. This set was tested and reviewed by Charlotte Potter and she said, “My hair has always been super fine and by simply running my fingers through it I will come away with a handful of strands. Now, aged 45, and edging into perimenopause, I’m more conscious than ever of increased hair shedding and weakness. So, I was very keen to try this sulphate, parabens and palm oil-free duo recommended by hair loss doctors, trichologists, hair and scalp specialists and chemotherapy nurses.”
The duo is designed to promote hair growth, improve moisture balance, scalp circulation, strengthen hair, reduce shedding, add body and shine, as well as give the appearance of stronger, fuller, thicker hair. The formula is enriched with rosemary, olive and argan oil as well as biotin and caffeine
“My long hair tends to get very greasy and needs washing every day, so a lot of the time products can leave it weighed down and looking greasy - even when freshly washed. Having used the shampoo and conditioner for two weeks, while I can’t yet speak to new growth, I have already seen positive changes,” she says.
“The results are shiny, soft, healthy-looking, bouncy hair and no greasy feel whatsoever
Plus, I’ve noticed my hair – usually flyaway, fine and straight – is holding a style
better,” she added.
Our tester also mentioned that the scent of rosemary is very strong and can be off putting if you can find strong scents stomach turning early in the morning. However, the scent does not linger on the hair at all post-rinse, even after a 20-minute deep
conditioning session.
Though it’s early days, the tester has said she would happily continue using this duo in the hope of seeingmore results over the recommended three-month period and the price is reasonable compared to similar hairgrowth shampoos and conditioners on the market
Pros
- Free from sulphates, parabens and palm oil, cruelty-free and Vegan Society approved
- Suitable for all hair types, as well as colour treated and chemically processed hair
- Noticeable short-term results. Hair felt smoother and looked shinier in twoweeks
Cons
- The smell of the conditioner was overpowering and may be too much for some people
- You need to follow the instructions for these products to work, so need to put in the time and be patient
Best hair growth shampoo for frizzy hair
Rebecca Lancasterwww.lookfantastic.com
The Hairburst Original Shampoo and Conditioner Bundle is formulated to boost shine, hydration and make your hair softer while strengthening it from within, making it the best hair growth shampoo for frizzy hair. This shampoo and conditioner set was tested and reviewed by Rebecca Lancaster, Digital Writer for Mother&Baby and she says, “I was very happy to know that is SLS and Paraben Free and made with 95% natural ingredients making it mild and gentle on your hair. As a 43-year-old woman with thin hair—especially around the temples—I'm always on the lookout for products that promise to strengthen, thicken, and revive my fine, limp strands. After having children, my hair never quite bounced back. It’s remained thin, particularly fragile around the front, and lacks the volume and fullness it once had.”
“I've now been using the shampoo and conditioner every morning for a little over three weeks and my first impressions were positive. The shampoo lathers quickly and richly, giving that satisfying clean feeling while being gentle on the scalp. The conditioner is creamy and smooth, and it coats the hair nicely," she says.
The scent is pleasant—light and clean without being overpowering—and it lingers softly on the hair without clashing with other hair or body products. “However, when it comes to actual results, after three weeks of consistent daily use, I haven’t noticed a reduction in the amount of hair coming out in my brush or shower drain yet. Maybe with prolonged use, the results would be more pronounced,” she says.
The tester also mentioned that she was experiencing a slight build-up of product, especially at the back of her head. For someone with fine, thinning hair, this build-up seemed to drags the hair down, making it look flatter. “However, this may because I wash my hair every day. If you’re someone who can wash their hair every few days, you’ll probably experience less build up, and I certainly noticed that if I swapped a couple of washes for my normal shampoo and conditioner, this balanced out the build-up,” she added.
81% of users noticed improved softness after a single wash and our tester agreed that even after one wash her hair did feel soft and silky As mentioned, the price is at the premium end and the bottles will last a long time. “But I expected more results —more shine, a bit of bounce, or reduced shedding. In summary, while the Hairburst Shampoo and Conditioner has a lovely scent, appealing packaging, and a satisfying lather, it hasn't delivered the stronger, fuller hair it promised. It might be worth trying in conjunction with the brand’s supplements to see if this delivers the full range of results,” she adds.
Pros
- SLS and Paraben Free and made with 95% natural ingredients
- Shampoo lathers quickly and richly so you only need a small amount
- The scent is pleasant, light and not overpowering
- Improves softness
Cons
- Product can build up and weigh hair down if used too regularly
- Can be hard to get the conditioner out of the bottle
Best hair growth shampoo on a budget
This set includes shampoo, conditioner and a hair mask for the ultimate treatment. Pantene claims that this set delivers up to 96 per cent less hair loss, and the reviews tend to agree. All of the products contain biotin and bamboo to help reduce hair loss due to breakage. It's formulated with no nasty ingredients and comes in 100 per cent recyclable bottles.
Customer review: "Love this product, I'm on treatment for cancer, not chemo, but I still get hair loss, not fully losing it, just strands drop off. I'm usually covered in my hair but since using this I'm not getting as much hair loss so I'm really pleased with this product."
Pros
- Contains biotin
- Helps reduce hair loss
Cons
- Not suitable for dyed hair
Best hair growth shampoo with biotin
Viviscal With thousands of reviews, the Viviscal Shampoo and Conditioner is one to have on your radar for hair growth. Perfect for everyday use, this set targets dry hair and boosts hair growth by moisturising and strengthening. Made with key ingredients like biotin, keratin and zinc to encourage hair growth and thickness.
Customer review: "I've been using the Viviscal shampoo and conditioner with great results but for some time and change it for others but I started to lose hair. I always come back to Viviscal Great product I recommend."
Best hair growth shampoo for thickness
OGX's Volumising Biotin & Collagen shampoo nourishes and treats hair, leaving it stronger and healthier-looking within a few months. Made with vitamin 57, biotin, collagen and wheat protein - this shampoo is full of must-have ingredients to add nutrients to every hair strand and encourage growth.
Customer review: "Used after a collagen treatment. Enhanced the thickness and helped with the longevity of the treatment. Notice my hair is less fluffy than before and definitely feels thicker."
Pros
- Adds lots of volume to the hair
- Sulphate free
Cons
- Need to buy conditioner separately
Best hair growth shampoo for thin hair
VIRTUEwww.lookfantastic.com
This shampoo and conditioner is ideal for those with thin, fine or fragile hair. The powerful shampoo and conditioner combo is full of proteins and actives to encourage growth and build strength. Both products work together to cleanse and nourish to remove impurities and enhance softness.
Customer review: "I’ve tried this brand years ago but wasn’t a fan. Gave it another chance and love it. Flourish line is best for my thinning hair but I also really like the volume one."
Pros
- Full of active ingredients
- Leaves the hair soft and shiny
Cons
- Some found it a little drying
Hair growth shampoo FAQs
What makes hair grow faster?
As well as introducing a new shampoo into your life to make your hair grow, you could look into some dietary changes, too. Gail explains, "It is known that eggs are a great source of protein to help hair growth. Spinach and salmon also help hair growth as they are rich in vitamin A. Choosing a supplement like Essy's hair growth oil, £19.99, alongside your shampoo is a great option too, if you're looking to fast-track your hair growth.
When should you start to see results?
Once you've found the product that suits you, "you should start to see results within three months". Results, however, vary from person to person.
What ingredients should I avoid using?
For overall hair health, there are certain things experts recommend that you avoid.
Sulphates - These harsh synthetic surfactants help to get rid of dirt and oil in your hair, but they can cause irritation and inflammation and make your hair dry and dull.
Parabens - These artificial preservatives are used to lengthen the shelf life of products by preventing the growth of bacteria. Some studies have claimed they could cause breast cancer, but according to The Cosmetics, Toiletries and Perfumery Association, "all cosmetic and toiletry products containing parabens may continue to be used safely."
Silicones - Silicones are synthetic polymers which help retain moisture and give your hair that shine. They can build up over time, leading to the hair cuticle becoming clogged.
Can hair grow back after thinning?
Yes, hair can grow back after thinning, especially when the cause is temporary, like stress, postpartum changes, or nutrient deficiencies. The key is early intervention and using targeted treatments that support the scalp and strengthen the follicles. With the right approach, regrowth is absolutely possible, Kameese says.
How to grow hair on a bald spot?
Hairfall and haircare expert Kameese Davis says, "I completely understand how worrying a bald spot can be, I've been there myself. I developed a bald patch due to CCCA (Central Centrifugal Cicatricial Alopecia) and honestly thought the hair would never come back. But with the right diagnosis, treatment plan, and consistency, I saw real regrowth. That experience is why I always say: it starts with understanding the cause. If there’s scarring, regrowth can be harder, but not always impossible. Speaking with a specialist or trichologist is key—they can help you figure out the best path forward for your hair."
Jade Moscrop is the Commercial Content Editor for Yours, specialising in lifestyle topics. When she's not writing about affordable homeware, beauty products and gym leggings, she can usually be found a hot girl walk, buying houseplants or listening to female-fronted rock bands.