13 Best Hair Thickening Shampoos to Unlock Denser Tresses

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For many, thin or lackluster hair can be a source of frustration, impacting confidence and style choices. With so many options available in the market, choosing the best hair thickening shampoos can be a nail-biting task. 

Hair-thickening shampoos are elixirs but don’t work magic overnight. “To understand this, you need to understand that your head contains a certain number of hair follicles, each follicle contains a hair root, from which a strand of hair grows. Some people are born with loads, and some are not. The number of hair follicles a person has cannot be altered.”(1)

Whether you’re battling age-related thinning, postpartum changes, hair fallout or simply desiring a voluminous look, our list will guide you through the top-notch choices available. Discover shampoos that deliver not only visible results but also a boost in confidence, as you flaunt hair that exudes vitality and vibrancy.

These remarkable shampoos approved by the best celebrity hairstylist of the beauty industry  uncover a range of formulations enriched with ingredients that promote hair health, boost thickness, and enhance the overall appearance of your strands. From natural botanicals to advanced scientific innovations, these shampoos cater to various hair types, textures, and concerns. To help you out, we, as per our expertise, have curated a list of the best thickening shampoo that promise not to disappoint.

What Do Hair Thickening Shampoos Do?

Hair thickening shampoos are formulated to address the common concern of thin or fine hair, offering a solution to enhance the appearance of thickness and volume. These shampoos work through a combination of specialized ingredients and gentle cleansing agents. Hair thickening shampoo is specifically formulated to address the concerns of individuals with thin or fine hair, aiming to provide a fuller, more voluminous appearance. These shampoos contain a unique blend of ingredients designed to enhance the diameter of individual hair strands, resulting in a visually thicker and more robust look. 

One of the key functions of hair-thickening shampoos is to cleanse the scalp and hair while promoting a healthier environment for hair growth. These shampoos often contain vitamins, minerals, and essential nutrients that nourish and keep the hair follicles clean, which can encourage stronger and more resilient hair growth over time, making your hair look as thick as it can be.

Moreover, these shampoos usually include proteins and amino acids that coat the hair strands, creating a thicker texture and adding temporary volume. These proteins can adhere to the hair shaft, effectively increasing its diameter and creating a plumping effect that makes the hair appear fuller and more voluminous.

How Does a Hair Thickening Shampoo Work?

A hair-thickening shampoo works by using special ingredients that coat the individual hair strands, making them appear thicker and more voluminous. These shampoos often contain collagen, proteins, vitamins, and nutrients that can temporarily plump up the hair, creating a fuller look. They can also strengthen the hair and promote a healthier scalp, which can encourage better hair growth over time. Some hair-thickening shampoos may also include botanical extracts that fortify the hair, thicken the hair shafts, and prevent breakage. Essentially, these shampoos give the hair a boost in thickness by enhancing its texture and providing a temporary volume increase, helping you achieve a fuller and more vibrant appearance.

So, Keep scrolling to know more about these healthy formulas that promise to give your hair a voluminous boost.

13 Best Hair Thickening Shampoos to Enjoy Long, Lustrous Mane

This plant-based shampoo by Avalon Organics is designed to gently cleanse and nourish fine, thinning hair to help build volume. It is formulated with a carefully balanced blend of biotin, saw palmetto, quinoa protein, and vitamin E, which work together to help strengthen hair strands and invigorate the scalp. The shampoo is pH-balanced and helps to cleanse and nourish hair from root to tip. Enriched with organic botanicals and essential oils, the shampoo is quite therapeutic.

Ideal for those with fine hair, the Tea Tree thickening Shampoo is designed to build body and boost volume to your hair. The shampoo contains thickening agents that help to plump up fine strands, making hair look and feel clean, thick, and healthy. The formula is lightweight and smooth, making it easy to apply and rinse out. The shampoo contains panthenol, which helps to strengthen every strand of hair, and also helps to protect against split ends. The uplifting scent of lemon, sage, peppermint, and tea tree oil invigorates and renews both hair and spirit.

The Biotin Shampoo for Hair Growth is a natural hair-thickening shampoo that is sulfate-free and paraben-free. It is designed to promote healthy hair growth and is safe for color-treated hair. The shampoo contains biotin, which is a great ingredient to include in your hair care routine as it supports fuller-looking hair regrowth. Other key ingredients include Pro-Vitamin B5, Aloe Vera, and Cucumber Extract, which add shine, soothe and calm the scalp, and add incredible moisture to the hair. The shampoo is gentle on the hair and scalp, making it a perfect fit for sensitive hair types. It is suitable for both men and women and can be used to treat thinning hair and hair loss. The shampoo pairs perfectly with a biotin conditioner to support healthier, fuller-looking hair regrowth.

This KERASITE’s strengthening shampoo is designed for fine, thin, and thinning hair. It is formulated with hyaluronic acid, which strengthens and visibly thickens hair to prevent future breakage. The shampoo is also enriched with ceramides, which enhance shine, promote elasticity, and strengthen hair. It gently cleanses hair build-up, leaving hair with more substance, resilience, and strength. The product fortifies each strand from root to tip, giving it the resilience it needs to stand up against everyday hair stresses. It increases hair density and adds body, volume, and fullness with enhanced shine to all types of hair. The shampoo is suitable for daily use and is designed to strengthen the hair at the fiber and awaken dormant follicles to give more texture, substance, and resilience to the hair.

This OGX hair thickening shampoo for women is designed for flat to medium-volume hair. It contains an exclusive blend of Vitamin B7 biotin, collagen, and hydrolyzed wheat protein that helps to infuse nutrients into every strand and creates the appearance of thicker, fuller hair. The shampoo is paraben-free and sulfate-free, making it gentle on hair and scalp. It is ideal for those with thin hair who want to create more abundant-looking locks. It is nutrient-rich and plumps up hair strands to give them extra body and volume. The 13 fl oz bottle is perfect for daily use and can help to improve the overall health and appearance of hair.

This Thickening Shampoo by R+Co Dallas is a vegan and cruelty-free hair care product that is designed to add volume and thickness to fine, flat hair while nourishing and strengthening it from root to tip. The shampoo contains biotin, which improves the keratin infrastructure of hair and increases hair strength and vitality. Enriched with pro-vitamin B5, it also penetrates hair and provides moisture. The product is suitable for all hair lengths and can be used with rollers, hot rollers, and curling irons to achieve mega-volume. The shampoo is not heavy on the hair and has a fabulous smell. The bottle and cap are made from 55% PCR, making it an eco-friendly option.

The Bumble and Bumble Shampoo is a lightweight cleanser designed to give hair fullness and body.  The thickening hair shampoo instantly preps hair for soft, touchable, moveable volume that lasts all day. The shampoo is suitable for fine and medium hair types. The shampoo contains Panthenol and Wheat Protein to make hair look thicker and fuller. Being a lightweight formula, the product won’t weigh hair down while giving your hair a fuller appearance. It also helps repair split ends and tame flyaways.

Experience hair that looks and feels thicker with Jack Black’s True Volume Thickening Shampoo. This revitalizing shampoo is meticulously crafted to enhance hair texture, providing a noticeable boost to volume and fullness. Infused with a potent blend of natural ingredients, including Biotin and Pro-Vitamin B5, it promotes healthier hair growth while strengthening and nourishing each strand. The advanced formula of the shampoo for thickening hair gently cleanses the scalp and hair, removing impurities and excess oil, without stripping away essential moisture. The inclusion of White Lupine and Creatine contributes to improved hair strength, making it less prone to breakage.

The Luseta Biotin and Collagen Shampoo is a hair growth shampoo designed for both men and women. It is specifically formulated to address thinning hair and hair loss, providing a solution for those looking to thicken their hair.It works by bulking up the hair follicle, giving the appearance of thicker and more voluminous hair. The shampoo contains a powerful blend of Vitamin B7 Biotin, Hydrolyzed Collagen, and Argan Oil. These ingredients work together to restore the necessary nutrients to every strand of hair.  The thickening shampoo is free from sulfates and parabens, making it a gentle and safe option for daily use. It is designed to stimulate hair growth and thicken thinning hair. It helps repair damaged dead skin cells and dull hair and also provides essential nutrients for healthier and stronger hair.

Infused with biotin and paraben and silicone-free this thickening shampoo is vegan-friendly. The shampoo gently cleanses thinning hair to remove impurities while building hair resiliency from root to tip. The shampoo removes impurities that weigh hair down from roots to ends, creating a lightweight feel that promotes fuller, healthier hair. The gentle formula removes impurities that are clogging hair follicles while increasing hair strength. After just one use, hair is fuller-looking and healthier-feeling.

This volumizing and thickening shampoo supports hair growth and strengthens the hair, providing a sulfate-free formula for gentle cleansing. Revita Shampoo starts acting on the scalp from the first day, revealing healthier and stronger hair. This shampoo is formulated to add volume and thickness to the hair, giving it a fuller appearance.  Developed without the use of sodium lauryl sulfate and sodium laureth sulfate, Revita Shampoo provides a gentle and non-irritating cleansing experience. This shampoo is suitable for both men and women with all hair types, including color-treated hair.

SACHAJUAN Thickening Shampoo is a hair care that gives hair smooth volume and nourishment, providing a foundation for amazing styling. The shampoo is designed to increase the thickness of each hair strand and create a strong base for styling. It is suitable for fine, limp hair and helps to revive. The shampoo also contains UV protectants that hydrate and protect hair from damage caused by the sun.

The RevitaLash Cosmetics Thickening Shampoo Scalp Therapy Formula is a unique shampoo designed to optimize scalp health, fortify the hair cuticle, and improve hair thickness. Here is a detailed description of the product. The shampoo is infused with therapeutic ingredients that support optimum scalp health and fortify the hair cuticle. Some key ingredients include Flax Protein, Loquat Leaf, and Ginseng. The shampoo cleanses the scalp and hair while providing fortification against environmental stressors. It helps to nourish frizzy, thinning, and damaged hair. The shampoo is hypoallergenic, making it suitable for sensitive scalps. It is also cruelty-free, meaning it is not tested on animals. The shampoo is color-safe, dermatologist-reviewed, clinically tested, oil-free, and free of parabens and phthalates. It is also vegan-friendly and made in the U.S.A.

How to Choose the Best Hair Thickening Shampoos?

Choosing the best hair-thickening shampoo requires careful consideration of your hair type, ingredients, and specific needs. Here’s a detailed guide to help you make the right choice:

Hair Type: Consider your hair type and texture. Different shampoos cater to fine, thin, limp or curly hair, so choose one that aligns with your hair’s characteristics.

Ingredients: Look for key ingredients like biotin, keratin, collagen, and proteins. These components can strengthen hair and add thickness.

Sulfate-Free Formula: Opt for shampoos without harsh sulfates, as they can strip natural oils and cause dryness. A sulfate-free formula maintains hair health.

Volumizing Agents: Check for volumizing agents like panthenol (pro-vitamin B5) that help lift hair at the roots, creating a fuller appearance.

Nourishing Elements: Seek shampoos with vitamins and antioxidants that nourish the scalp, fostering healthier hair growth.

Botanical Extracts: Natural extracts like ginseng, aloe vera, and tea tree oil can stimulate hair follicles and promote a denser look.

Avoid Heavy Conditioners: Choose a lightweight conditioner that doesn’t weigh down hair. Heavy conditioners can negate the volume-enhancing effects of shampoo.

Read Reviews: Check customer reviews and feedback to gauge the effectiveness of the shampoo on different hair types.

Avoid Excessive Fragrances: Strong fragrances can sometimes irritate the scalp. Opt for shampoos with mild or no fragrances, especially if you have a sensitive scalp.

Dermatologist Recommendations: If you have specific scalp conditions like dandruff or sensitivity, consult a dermatologist for personalized recommendations.

Trial and Patience: Remember that results may take time. Try a shampoo for a few weeks to see if it suits your hair and delivers the desired thickness.

Price Point: Compare prices and consider your budget. High-priced shampoos may not always be the best, so balance quality and cost.

Brand Reputation: Choose reputable brands known for their hair care products. Well-established brands often have a history of delivering effective solutions.

Customization: Some brands offer different versions of their hair-thickening shampoos, catering to specific needs like color-treated or damaged hair.

Allergies and Sensitivities: If you have allergies or sensitivities, carefully read the ingredient list to avoid any potential irritants.

Choose the right thickening shampoo by considering your hair type and worries. For colored hair, avoid shampoos with harsh chemicals that can harm your hair. If you want to clean your scalp and get thicker hair, pick a shampoo with special stuff like detoxifiers and acids.

By taking these factors into account, you can choose a hair-thickening shampoo that aligns with your hair goals and preferences, ultimately achieving the thicker and fuller hair you desire.

What Ingredients Should I Look for in a Hair Thickening Shampoo?

When searching for the best hair growth and thickening shampoo, specific ingredients play a vital role in achieving the desired voluminous and fuller appearance. Here’s a detailed breakdown of key ingredients to look for:

Biotin: Also known as vitamin H, biotin supports hair health by promoting keratin production, which strengthens hair strands and encourages growth.(1)

Keratin: This protein is a building block of hair, making it a crucial ingredient for reinforcing and fortifying hair structure, resulting in thicker-looking strands. (2) 

Collagen: Collagen peptides can add density to individual hair fibers, creating a plumping effect that enhances overall hair volume. (3)

Proteins: Ingredients like wheat or soy proteins can temporarily thicken the hair shafts, adding volume and fullness to the hair’s appearance. 

Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5): Panthenol can help improve hair elasticity and thickness by conditioning the hair and adding a subtle lift at the roots.(4)

Niacin (Vitamin B3): Niacin promotes blood circulation in the scalp, which can contribute to better nutrient delivery to hair follicles, potentially leading to thicker hair.(5)

Vitamin E: This antioxidant-rich vitamin promotes a healthy scalp environment, which can encourage stronger hair growth and prevent breakage.(6)

Amino Acids: Amino acids, the building blocks of proteins, can help repair and strengthen hair strands, contributing to an overall thicker appearance.(7)

Ginseng Extract: Ginseng’s stimulating properties can improve blood circulation to the scalp, potentially promoting healthier hair growth.(8)

Aloe Vera: Aloe vera soothes the scalp and helps maintain a balanced environment for hair growth, preventing thinning due to scalp issues.(9)

Peppermint Oil: Peppermint oil promotes scalp health and circulation, potentially leading to improved hair thickness and growth.(10)

Saw Palmetto: This herbal extract is thought to block the production of DHT, a hormone associated with hair thinning, potentially preventing hair loss.(11)

Caffeine: When applied topically, caffeine can stimulate hair follicles, promoting growth and improving the overall appearance of hair thickness.(12)

Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): Niacinamide supports scalp health and may improve hair texture, leading to a denser-looking mane.(13)

Silicone-Free Formulas: While not an ingredient, opting for silicone-free shampoos prevents product buildup that can weigh hair down.

When selecting a hair-thickening shampoo, look for products that combine multiple beneficial ingredients for a comprehensive approach to boosting hair volume and thickness. Keep in mind that individual results may vary, and consistent use over time is key to achieving the best outcome for your hair type and condition.

Remember that the best hair-thickening shampoos are just one tool in your hair care arsenal. Adopting a holistic approach to hair health, including a balanced diet, proper hydration, and a consistent hair care routine, can amplify the results achieved through these shampoos. While hair thickening shampoos might not perform miracles overnight, patience is key. Results often become more noticeable over time, with consistent use. Keep realistic expectations and understand that while these shampoos can significantly enhance volume and thickness, they might not magically transform hair into an entirely different state. So keep patience and let the magic happen with time!