Do hair loss shampoos and serums actually work?

Hair Loss Products: The Honest Answer

Some ingredients have real evidence, most don't.

What Actually Works

Minoxidil is the standout ingredient with strong clinical backing:

• Rogaine (the original brand) or generic minoxidil shampoos/foams are FDA-approved
• Hims and Keeps offer minoxidil-based products conveniently online
• Works best for androgenetic (pattern) hair loss

Ketoconazole shampoos have decent supporting evidence:

• Nizoral is the most well-known - reduces scalp inflammation and DHT-related hair loss
• Often used alongside minoxidil

Worth Trying With Modest Evidence

• Nutrafol - has some clinical studies, though company-funded
• Viviscal - some research support for certain hair loss types

Be Skeptical Of

• Most "volumizing" or "thickening" shampoos that claim to regrow hair
• Products with vague "proprietary blends"
• Anything promising dramatic results without mentioning minoxidil

Bottom Line

• Shampoos alone are generally weak for regrowth
• Minoxidil-based serums/foams genuinely work for many people
• Results take 3-6 months minimum
• A dermatologist can identify your specific hair loss type, which matters a lot

Would you like more specific recommendations based on your situation?