FAQs
What causes thinning hair?
"The most prevalent cause of hair loss is androgenetic alopecia, also known as male- and/or female-pattern baldness," says Dr. Greene. Androgenetic alopecia, as its name suggests, derives from your genetic makeup. Then there's alopecia areata, a similar autoimmune response that can be related to genes or stress. Other variables that affect hair loss include: "hormones, nutrient deficiencies, and medical conditions [like menopause, hypothyroidism, and PCOS, to name a few]," says Dr. Greene.
Can hair grow back from thinning?
"If the hair loss or thinning is from a cause other than genetics, such as stress, illness, pregnancy, and nutrient deficiencies, the likelihood of regrowth is high," says Dr. Green. However, if you have always had thin hair, "you can't grow thicker hair because the size of the hair follicle cannot be changed."
How often should you shampoo your hair if it's thinning?
Dr. Green advises on wash routines, stating, "the frequency of shampooing does not affect how much hair is shed because the amount of hair shedding for each day is already determined by the body." However, she does note how important it is to "keep the hair and scalp clean," as "shampooing too infrequently can lead to irritation, redness, inflammation, scaling, and flaking." She tells Business Insider that her rule of thumb is to limit yourself to about 3 washes per week.
When should I see a doctor for thinning hair?
"Some initial signs of thinning hair include excessive shedding after brushing the hair or taking a shower, the appearance of bald patches, or a noticeable change in hair density in the hairline," explains Dr. Green. With that in mind, "It is best to consult with a board-certified dermatologist as soon as you notice any of these changes to identify any underlying causes and determine a treatment plan to correct the thinning."
Do shampoos for hair thinning really work?
In short, says Dr. Green, yes — so as long as you select shampoos with the right ingredients such as "minoxidil and argan oil." The dermatologist says these staples "can be very effective for maintaining hair and scalp health."
How do thinning hair shampoos work?
Dr. Green explains: "Thinning hair shampoos with the right ingredients, such as argan oil, rosemary, and tea tree oil, can help maintain hair and scalp health, which can be beneficial in combination with minoxidil and other hair loss treatments." Dr. Green reports that minoxidil is instrumental in "increasing hair follicle size and stimulating the growth phase of the hair."
We consulted experts on their suggestions for the best shampoos for thinning according to a wide range of needs (including stylist recommendations and best-selling hair-care brands) and compiled them here, so you can find the best one to suit your treatment plan.