17 Best and Worst Shampoos for Hair Loss in 2025 (2025)

If you are experiencing hair thinning, it’s normal to seek out effective treatments to tackle your hair loss. And since shampoo is one of the most widely used hair products, it’s important to find effective shampoos for hair lossthat tackle your specific condition.

Many shampoos contain ingredients that stimulate hair growth. Some of them contain hair loss medication, while others harness the power of natural remedies.

But when choosing the best formulation to clean your hair and stimulate growth, note that some shampoos contain harmful substances, which can aggravate hair shedding. Some may also irritate your scalp, especially if you’re prone to skin conditions like eczema or seborrheic dermatitis.

Here, we’ve asked our team of dermatologists and trichologists for their expert opinions on the best and worst shampoos for hair loss. Read on to understand more about the impact of your shampoo on hair growth, including:

• The 9 best shampoos for hair loss
• 8 kinds of shampoo to avoid
• Hair washing tips for preventing hair loss
• Reasons why you may be experiencing hair loss
• Most common treatments for hair loss

What are the best shampoos for hair loss?

Some hair loss is normal in the shower, but if you are shedding more than 50-100 hairs per day, it may be a sign of diffuse thinning, pattern baldness, or another type of alopecia. If you’re losing hair, it is very important to choose an effective shampoo for thinning hair.

Using a blend of research and expertise, we have put together a list of the best 9 kinds of shampoos to use for alleviating your hair loss.

Disclaimer: Before using any of these products, it is a good idea to consult a hair specialist. In a small proportion of users, some of them can have paradoxical unwanted side effects, such as causing hair loss instead of treating it. The products mentioned on this page are for reference purposes only and have been selected based on online reviews and user-reported results. Wimpole Clinic does not endorse or guarantee the effectiveness of the products sold by these products.

1. Ketoconazole shampoo

Ketoconazole (KCZ) is a substance which is highly effective in reducing dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis [1]. But it may also have anti-inflammatory properties which reduce hair follicle miniaturisation, leaving your hair intact and promoting growth [2].

One study compared the effects oftopical Minoxidiland 2% KCZ shampoo onmen with Norwood scale stage 3 male pattern baldness[1].Results showed that using a shampoo containingketoconazole for hair loss was effective. The shampoo improved hair density, size and proportion of anagen follicles, offering similar results toMinoxidil 2%, which is one of the most recommended hair growth products.

A further clinical trial also revealed an 80% improvement in dandruff after 4 weeks of use [3]. So using a ketoconazole shampoo is a surefire way to improve scalp and follicle health.

Recommended Ketoconazole shampoo brand: Nizoral 2%

2. Piroctone olamine

Piroctone olamine is an ingredient often used to combat dandruff. But studies have shown it may also reduce hair shedding, thanks to its antioxidant properties [4].

This shampoo from Head & Shoulders also contains aloe vera extract, which can help soothe your scalp, reducing inflammation. So .

Recommended piroctone olamine shampoo brand: Head & Shoulders Dermax Pro Scalp Care

3. Stemoxydine shampoo

Stemoxydine for hair loss is an antioxidant which has been shown by research to decrease the proportion of hair which is in the telogen (shedding) phase, and thus reduce the proportion of your hair falling out [6].

It can help in improving hair loss from diffuse thinning, androgenetic alopecia and telogen effluvium alike [5-6].

Recommended Stemoxydine shampoo brand: Kérastase Densifique Femme, Thickening & Volumising Shampoo, For Fine Hair

4. Phyto-caffeine shampoo

Caffeine can do more for you than just wake you up in the morning; it can also stimulate your hair growth. Caffeine shampoo for hair loss is efficient on its own, but even more so when it joins forces with zinc and niacin to form phyto-caffeine.

Research performed on women with female pattern baldness revealed that after 6 months of regular phyto-caffeine shampoo use, subjects showed significant improvements in a hair pull test [7]. That makes this one of the most effective hair loss shampoos for women.

Recommended caffeine shampoo brand: Plantur 39 Phyto-Caffeine Shampoo for Fine, Brittle Hair

5. Rosemary oil shampoo

Rosemary oil is one of the best essential oils for hair growth. A study performed on 100 patients with male pattern baldness revealed that rosemary oil for hair growth is just as effective as Minoxidil when it comes to increasing hair count after 6 months of regular use [8].

Some researchers and dermatologists also believe rosemary is effective in reducing dandruff and hair greasiness when added to shampoo [9]. So this may be a good choice if you’re struggling to control scalp flaking and excessive oiliness around your roots.

Recommended rosemary oil shampoo brand: Faith In Nature Rosemary Shampoo

6. Black seed oil shampoo

Black seed oil is known for its antimicrobial, antioxidant and hair growth-promoting qualities. It helps prevent hair loss by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress and it contributes to regulating your hair cycle [10]. So using shampoo made from black seed oil for hair growth may also lead to satisfying results.

Recommended black seed oil shampoo brand: Vatika Black Seed Complete Care Shampoo

7. Tea tree oil shampoo

Tea tree oil for hair is an effective natural treatment against dandruff and head parasites, such as lice [11]. One study on 126 patients with dandruff revealed symptoms improved by 41% after using tea tree oil shampoo daily for 4 weeks [12].

Recommended tea tree oil shampoo brand: Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Special Shampoo

8. Aloe Vera shampoo

Well-known for its soothing properties, aloe vera has long been used in cosmetic products. When applied to your scalp as a shampoo, aloe vera for hair helps calm itchiness and irritation, removes greasiness, strengthens and repairs the hair strands and contributes to hair growth [13].

Our recommended aloe vera shampoo also includes moisturising agent argan oil, helping keep your hair soft and sleek.

Recommended aloe vera oil shampoo brand: Mill Creek Botanicals Aloe Vera Shampoo

9. Anti-aging shampoo

This type of shampoo contains a mix of protective substances for your hair, such as antioxidants, UV absorbers, conditioning agents. It contains certain saccharomyces (or yeast species) which can fight oxidative stress, a contributing factor in many types of hair loss. It also contains added amino acids to replace those depleted by daily wear and tear [4]. Amino acids are the building blocks of protein, which is essential for keeping hair strong and facilitating hair growth.

In some formulas, the concentration of these protective elements is too low to provide a significant and lasting effect. But products with a higher concentration can help maintain your scalp and hair health.

Recommended anti-aging shampoo brand: Alterna Haircare CAVIAR Anti Aging Replenishing Moisture Shampoo

What are the worst shampoos for hair loss?

Shampoos are normally safe to use and should not make your hair fall out. However, some of them contain harsher or more health-hazardous chemicals than others, which it’s best to avoid if you’re already experiencing signs of hair thinning.

When choosing a shampoo, check the ingredient list and stay away from the following hair products.

1. Shampoos containing sulphates

Sulphates are cleaning agents that act like powerful detergents, eliminating sebum and debris on your scalp. But in the process, they can be very harsh on your hair, leaving it dry and brittle.

If your hair is very dry, choose a shampoo with plenty of moisturising agents. See the best shampoos for dry hairfor more dehydrated haircare options.

2. Shampoos containing parabens

Parabens are antifungal and antimicrobial agents, meaning they may help minimise fungal scalp problems like dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis.

But parabens have been revealed to cause hormonal imbalances and have even been connected to breast cancer [14]. Other research suggests that parabens can damage the scalp and the hair follicles, potentially compromising your hair growth [18].

As a result, certain parabens have been banned for use in the EU. But other parabens are still in use, so look for the paraben-free logo if you’re concerned.

3. Shampoos containing formaldehyde

Formaldehyde is a preservative which can be highly toxic and lead to a number of serious health issues, including cancer [15]. And it’s not good for your hair, either.

Studies have shown that hair products containing formaldehyde may reduce resistance to breakage, moisture retention, and an increase in irregular cuticles [19]. This results in very dry brittle hair that’s liable to break off, making it appear thin.

In addition, formaldehyde has been linked with increasingly severe allergic contact dermatitis [19]. So if you experience any kind of skin reaction (such as scalp eczema or facial swelling) after using a product containing formaldehyde, discontinue use immediately.

4. Shampoos containing DMDM hydantoin

DMDM hydantoin is a compound that has preservative and antimicrobial properties, helping keep your shampoo fresh and reducing the risk of bacterial or fungal infection of the scalp.

But DMDM hydantoin can also release a small quantity of formaldehyde into your hair. While the amount released is generally considered to be safe to health, it may still put you at risk of allergic reactions and hair dryness [20].

5. Shampoos containing alcohol

Most shampoos contain some kind of alcohol, so this is tricky to avoid altogether. In reality, you need to know the difference between helpful and harmful alcohols, and steer clear of the latter.

Fatty alcohols, such ascetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, andlauryl alcohol, tend to be beneficial. As well as thickening the shampoo itself, they can help your hair retain moisture.

However, other alcohols can dry your hair out, especially if there’s no hair hydrating ingredients in the list to balance it. This includes propanol, ethanol, isopropyl alcohol, and propyl alcohol.

6. Shampoos containing selenium sulphide

This compound relieves itchiness and dry skin caused by dandruff. But one study found that repeatedly using a shampoo containing selenium sulphide resulted in hair loss of varying degrees [21]. This was shown to happen in six cases, and stopped when those affected stopped using this shampoo.

Animal studies suggest selenium sulphise may also be a carcinogen, although there’s no evidence yet that this effect also applies to humans [16].

7. Shampoos containing dimethicone

Dimethicone is one of the most common silicones used in shampoo. As a silicone, it has several benefits: it coats the hair fibres, sealing in moisture, reducing frizz, and creating a soft, silky texture [22].

But dimethicone isn’t water-soluble, which makes it difficult to wash out. This can become a problem if you have too much silicone buildup on your hair fibres. Your hair may start to feel dry and/or lank as a result.

Dimethicone isn’t dangerous, but if your preferred product contains dimethicone, consider restricting its use to just once or twice a week to minimise buildup.

8. Shampoos containing phthalates

Phthalates are gelling compounds used to preserve fragrance in shampoos and other haircare products. But they’re also known to cause significant endocrine, reproductive, developmental and neurological health problems [17] and are also damaging to the environment.

In addition, the use of phthalates in hair relaxers may be linked with hair loss [23]. So it’s best to avoid any shampoo containing phthalates for your overall and hair health.

Why is my hair falling out?

There can be multiple conditions which could be responsible for your hair falling out. The most common of these include:

• Androgenetic alopecia (male/female pattern baldness)
• Telogen effluvium
• Alopecia areata
• Medication-induced hair loss
• Postpartum hair loss
• Traction alopecia
• Summer hair loss
• Common scalp problems

It is important to get an accurate diagnosis for your hair loss as soon as possible, so you can receive the most appropriate treatment and keep your condition from becoming worse. That is why you should book a consultation with a trichologist.

They will use minimally invasive procedures, such as dermoscopies or blood tests for hair loss, to pinpoint the exact cause and nature of your shedding and provide you with the best hair loss treatment.

How can I stop my hair from falling out?

The best treatment for your hair loss depends on the reason why you are experiencing it. While shampoos may alleviate the symptoms of milder forms of balding if your shedding is more advanced, a stronger therapeutic approach may be required.

The most commonly used treatments and procedures recommended for promoting hair restoration and growth include:

• Minoxidil – available as topical or oral Minoxidil for hair loss, this medication opens up the blood vessels, bringing nutrients to your hair follicles.
• Finasteride – this drug works by inhibiting the reaction of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) formation (DHT is the hormone responsible for hair loss in androgenetic alopecia). While Finasteride results are good, it is only recommended for men and postmenopausal women.
• Dutasteride – an alternative to Finasteride, this medication is another DHT blocker frequently recommended for male pattern baldness.
• Corticosteroids – these steroid creams can treat hair loss caused by autoimmune disorders, such as alopecia areata or lupus-induced hair loss.
• Derma rolling for hair growth – this therapy involves using a tool covered in very fine needles to create micro-holes in your scalp, stimulating healing and hair growth.
• Red light therapy for hair loss – this form of Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) focuses beams of red or infrared light on your scalp to stimulate your cell metabolism.
• Hair transplant – Unlike the previous treatments, hair transplant is permanent. Using state-of-the-art techniques such as follicular unit extraction (FUE) or follicular unit transplantation (FUT), the best hair transplant clinics in the UK achieve a 97-100% success rate for a natural-looking hair transplant.

If you are considering getting a hair transplant to increase your hair density, we encourage you to take a look at our before and after hair transplant gallery. And if you like what you see, don’t hesitate to book a consultation with one of our world-renowned surgeons. They will assess whether you are a good candidate for the procedure and walk you through every step of your hair restoration journey.

1. Ketoconazole Shampoo: Effect of Long-Term Use in Androgenic Alopecia
2. The shifting preferences of patients and physicians in nonsurgical hair loss treatment
3. A double-blind trial of 1% ketoconazole shampoo versus placebo in the treatment of dandruff
4. Scalp application of the antioxidant piroctone olamine reduces hair shedding in an 8-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study
5. Telogen Effluvium
6. Skin, hair and beyond: the impact of menopause
7. Efficacy of a cosmetic phyto-caffeine shampoo in female androgenetic alopecia
8. Rosemary oil vs minoxidil 2% for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia: a randomized comparative trial
9. Rosemary
10. Review on the Cosmeceutical and External Applications of Nigella sativa
11. Hair Shampoo
12. Treatment of dandruff with 5% tea tree oil shampoo
13. Formulation and Evaluation of Aloe Vera Gel Shampoo
14. What to Know About Parabens
15. The Toxic Effects of Formaldehyde and Formalin
16. Selenium Sulfide
17. Phthalates and Their Impacts on Human Health
18. Status of research on the development and regeneration of hair follicles
19. Effects of chemical straighteners on the hair shaft and scalp
20. Final Report on the Safety Assessment of DMDM Hydantoin
21. DIFFUSE HAIR LOSS ASSOCIATED WITH SELENIUM (SELSUN) SULFIDE SHAMPOO
22. Hair Cosmetics: An Overview
23. Uncovering the dangers of hair products marketed to Black women, girls