The only topical product that has been clinically tested and approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for hair loss is Minoxidil. You might recognize it in products like Rogaine for male hair loss, but it's now found in many more over-the-counter products for both men and women.
Minoxidil prolongs the anagen phase (the active growth phase) of the hair cycle, encouraging the hair follicles to produce thicker, stronger hair. We recognize that there are many underlying reasons for hair loss and topical Minoxidil is most effective for androgenetic alopecia (male or female pattern baldness).
Minoxidil stimulates blood flow to the hair follicles and increases follicular size, so it could be an option for those experiencing hair thinning or loss. However, it is known to be quite irritating for those with sensitive skin, and you must keep using it for the rest of your life to prevent or slow down hair thinning.
We want to introduce other options that, while not FDA-approved for hair growth, can support scalp health and create a conducive environment for healthy hair. These serums focus on nourishing the scalp and hair follicles without altering the skin's structure or function.
The Best Hair Serums for Hair Growth
- Best for Dry Scalp: Neurogan Health Copper Peptide Serum
- Best for Thinning Hair for Women: Hers Minoxidil Solution 2%
- Best for Men's Hair Growth: Hims Minoxidil Solution 5%
- Gentle on the Scalp: The Ordinary Peptide Hair Serum
- Best for Hair Thickness: Living Proof Scalp Care Density Serum
- Top Rated with Biotin: Sephora Collection Strengthening Hair Serum with Biotin and Phytoprotiens
- Best for Volume and Strength: Kérastase Initialiste Strengthening & Volumizing Advanced Scalp & Hair Serum
- Best with Organic Ingredients: Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Scalp & Hair Strengthening Oil
Neurogan Health Copper Peptide Serum
Our Copper Peptide Hair and Scalp Serum is made with two simple ingredients: medical-grade distilled water and GHK-Cu (copper peptides), making it an ideal addition to sensitive scalp hair routines, leaving no trace of heavy residue behind.
Copper peptides have been studied for their potential to support collagen production, help calm inflammation, and promote blood circulation in the scalp [1]. While this ingredient isn't FDA-approved for hair growth, many people have found that using copper peptides contributes to a healthier scalp environment, which is important for maintaining healthy hair.
Hers Minoxidil Solution 2%
Hers sells a 2% Minoxidil topical scalp solution for women experiencing hair thinning due to female pattern baldness, which is hereditary. It creeps up as the gradual thinning of hair starts at the crown of the head or hairline.
One of the best analogies for this type of hair loss is to think of your genetics as a river naturally flowing toward hair shedding. Minoxidil acts like a dam, holding back or slowing down that flow. However, if you stop using it, your hair will eventually follow the path it was genetically predisposed to take.
Minoxidil is a drug that prolongs the hair growth phase of the hair cycle, helping to maintain hair density and fight the early stages of female pattern baldness. Hers Minoxidil is reportedly gentle on the scalp as it is a lower concentration and is meant to be applied twice a day (in the morning and night), and you should avoid washing your hair at least 4 hours after its application.
One of the drawbacks is that it can leave a filmy sort of residue on the hairline and may cause irritation to the skin. Another rare side but severe effect of using Minoxidil is an increased risk for cardiac disease.
Hims Minoxidil 5% Solution
Hims, the same company as Hers mentioned earlier, offers a 5% Minoxidil solution — the strongest concentration available over the counter for treating male pattern baldness.
Men's Minoxidil is typically stronger than women's because hair loss in men often progresses more rapidly and extensively due to higher levels of androgens (male hormones), particularly dihydrotestosterone (DHT). The 5% concentration is a more potent treatment to combat this faster and more aggressive hair loss in men.
That being said, women can still safely use 5% Minoxidil, but 2% is more often recommended to reduce the risk of side effects.
The Ordinary Peptide Hair Serum
The Ordinary Peptide Hair Serum is a gentle, ingredient-packed formula supporting hair density. The first ingredient is caffeine, which is designed to stimulate blood circulation in the scalp, helping to deliver more oxygen and nutrients to hair follicles, potentially encouraging stronger hair growth.
The next notable ingredients are Biotinoyl Tripeptide-1 and Acetyl Tetrapeptide-3, which are known to support the strength of hair strands within the follicles.
This is an affordable option for those with sensitive skin looking for a well-thought-out hair serum.
Living Proof Scalp Care Density Serum
Living Proof is best known for its luxury hair care line. Its Scalp Care Density Serum focuses on increasing hair thickness.
While not FDA-approved for hair growth, it contains ingredients designed to hydrate the scalp and create the optimal conditions for thicker, fuller hair. According to Living Proof formulators, its regular use can help improve the overall density of hair, making it look and feel more voluminous.
Sephora Collection Strengthening Hair Serum with Biotin and Phytoprotiens
I don't think we should sleep on the Sephora Collection anymore, as the brand has lately been releasing innovative products in makeup, skincare, and hair care.
The Strengthening Hair Serum combines biotin and photoprotein to strengthen hair and reduce breakage, which is great for hair loss caused by damaged hair. The instructions are to apply the serum to the scalp and roots of your hair and gently massage. Its lightweight and non-greasy formula makes it an easy addition to a regular hair care routine.
Kérastase Initialiste Strengthening & Volumizing Advanced Scalp & Hair Serum
Kérastase's Initialiste Serum is a high-end option that claims to strengthen and volumize hair.
It's made with a blend of plant-based ingredients that help reinforce hair fibers for a fuller, more voluminous look. Although it’s not FDA-approved for hair growth, this serum is well-loved for improving hair's overall appearance and feel.
Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Scalp & Hair Strengthening Oil
For those who prefer organic ingredients, Mielle Organics has a Rosemary Mint Scalp & Hair Strengthening Oil formulated to nourish the scalp and support hair strength — and it's curly hair-friendly.
This oil contains rosemary, known for its circulation-boosting properties, with other natural oils that condition the scalp and promote a healthier environment for hair growth. The essential oils leave your scalp feeling tingly and clean, which helps to promote hair growth with improved blood flow. That being said, it might not be the best for those with sensitive skin.
The Takeaway: The Best Hair Growth Serums
While Minoxidil remains the gold standard for FDA-approved over-the-counter hair growth treatments, we've highlighted other top-rated serums to support scalp health and improve your hair's overall appearance and strength.
Many factors can contribute to the appearance of thinning hair — ranging from a lack of volume and stress to genetics and harsh hair treatments.
The most effective way to address this is through a holistic approach, which includes maintaining a healthy lifestyle and diet and choosing the right products for your scalp and hair. This might take some trial and error, but eventually, you'll find a routine that supports fuller, healthier hair by finding a personalized combination.
Resources:
- Pyo, H. K., Yoo, H. G., Won, C. H., Lee, S. H., Kang, Y. J., Eun, H. C., ... & Kim, K. H. (2007). The effect of tripeptide-copper complex on human hair growth in vitro. Archives of pharmacal research, 30, 834-839.
