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How do I Choose the Best Shampoo for Hair Loss?

Mandi R. Hall
Mandi R. Hall

Choosing a shampoo for hair loss can be a daunting experience. Hair needs to be properly maintained with the right shampoo in order to curb hair loss before it starts or becomes insurmountable. There are many types of shampoo on the market that promise fuller, thicker hair; however, consumers should be wary of these products, as they often only mask thin hair by depositing chemicals that make it look fuller. While there isn’t just one best shampoo for hair loss, there are some key features to look out for.

There are many kinds of hair loss. People should note, however, that it is common for each individual to lose up to approximately 130 strands of hair per day. If you style your hair excessively tightly in ponytails or cornrows, for example, expect even more hair to break off at the root or mid-strand. Additionally, you should discover the right balance between conditioning your hair and weighing it down too much. Finding small clumps of hair in the drain or in your hairbrush, though, doesn’t mean it’s time for you to start shopping for a shampoo for hair loss.

A man with hair loss.
A man with hair loss.

Try an herbal shampoo for hair loss. While many popular shampoos essentially clean both the hair and scalp, they also dry them out with chemicals, resulting in frizzy, dull hair. An herbal shampoo is based on natural ingredients that nourish strands of hair, as well as the scalp. While it’s not scientifically proven, many people reach for peppermint oil or peppermint-infused shampoo for hair loss. When used on the scalp, it is said to promote circulation, therefore potentially stimulating hair growth.

Hair loss shampoo.
Hair loss shampoo.

If you aren’t fond of the way peppermint smells or tingles your scalp, try another organic or herbal shampoo for hair loss. These sorts of shampoos won’t be full of chemicals, but they will be nourishing to your head. Additionally, check the ingredients labels carefully. If you are allergic to sulfates, cocoa butter, or lavender, make sure to steer clear of shampoos containing such ingredients. It’s also important to remember that just because something is organic, doesn’t mean it’s safe for your individual skin.

Cocoa butter is used in some shampoos for hair loss, so those with allergies need to check labels.
Cocoa butter is used in some shampoos for hair loss, so those with allergies need to check labels.

If you have weak, brittle hair, you might consider purchasing shampoo for hair loss, as well. Many people fear they are going bald when their hair is just breaking off mid-strand due to harsh conditions. If your hair has been consistently subjected to harsh chemicals via bleaching, perming, or direct contact with heat, for example, it is probably quite damaged. In addition to shampoo for hair loss, people with damaged hair should be sure to be gentle with their hair as much as possible. Avoiding rough brushing, extraneous dye jobs, and direct heat.

Hair loss is perceived as a sign of aging, though it happens to men and women of all ages. People with alopecia, which is a medical condition causing hair loss, tend to lose hair at a higher rate. In these cases, shampoo for hair loss isn’t enough. Patients typically either cope with the condition, or treat it with medication.

Discussion Comments

donasmrs

What about medicated shampoos for hair loss? Has anyone here used them? I believe these shampoos have medications that limit the activity of certain hormones that lead to hair loss.

bear78

@burcinc-- I agree that a shampoo ought to be organic and natural, especially if hair loss is occurring. But there are definitely ingredients that make a significant difference. All natural shampoos are not equally beneficial for this problem.

I personally have had good results with shampoos containing natural oils. Specifically, argan oil shampoo and coconut oil shampoo have been helpful. I also use hair conditioner and hair oil with natural oils.

burcinc

I don't think that one needs a shampoo with a specific ingredient to avoid hair loss or promote hair growth. I think that all natural shampoos without chemicals do this to some extent. So our goal should be to avoid shampoos with chemicals, alcohol, fragrances and other additives that damage our scalp and hair and lead to hair loss.

I used to shed a lot of hair before. Since I switched to a chemical free shampoo, the shedding has reduced significantly. Beyond this, what herbs or ingredients a shampoo ought to have is a personal decision. I think that all natural shampoos are beneficial for hair loss issues. Of course, some hair loss is genetic, such as male hereditary baldness. Unfortunately, no shampoo can reverse that.

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    • A man with hair loss.
      A man with hair loss.
    • Hair loss shampoo.
      By: Irina Brinza
      Hair loss shampoo.
    • Cocoa butter is used in some shampoos for hair loss, so those with allergies need to check labels.
      By: svl861
      Cocoa butter is used in some shampoos for hair loss, so those with allergies need to check labels.