Regardless of your colour or style, there is one thing that is the same for most people: the need to promote the growth of healthy-looking hair. And it’s not a fleeting fad. Google Trends recently reported a 110% rise in ‘hair growth product’ searches and a whopping 4,700% surge for ‘what makes hair grow’, demonstrating that individuals are actively searching for ways to improve the length and strength of their hair.
It may be too easy to think that a new shampoo can perform magic, but according to experts, there’s more to it. Andy Jones, Champo Haircare’s director of new product development, says although the shampoo won’t actually grow your hair, it’s important in keeping your scalp healthy—a necessary base for stronger, fuller hair. Good shampoo assists in cleaning the scalp, eliminating deposits, and maintaining it in balance, all serving to favor a healthier hair growth cycle.
Trichologist Tiffany Hall adds that hair growth shampoos may indeed work in some cases, like telogen effluvium (shedding temporarily) or certain scalp disorders. But they won’t do anything for dormant follicles. So, while these shampoos are effective in maintaining hair and inhibiting shedding, they are not miracle workers for hair loss.
If you’re on the hunt for a growth-supporting shampoo, ingredients count. Jones suggests gentle, non-stripping shampoos with naturally based cleansers. Moisturizing ingredients such as glycerin and gluconolactone keep the scalp moisturized, while light oils such as coconut extract feed the hair without weighing it down. Ketoconazole, which some anti-dandruff shampoos contain, can calm inflammation and promote scalp health. While ingredients such as caffeine and biotin are trendy, the science behind them is still lacking.
Hall also urges caution when buying hair growth shampoos—especially when a product makes bold claims. Always read the ingredients and search for clinical studies to support the claims.
Outside of shampoos, holistic treatments can make a big difference in hair growth. Massages of the scalp, scalp-oiling, and low-level red light therapy have proven useful in clinical trials. Both specialists emphasize the importance of overall scalp health, which is often neglected until problems become extreme. A healthy diet full of nutrients, stress relief, and a regular care regimen can be the difference-maker.
Jones also suggests specific scalp treatments such as Champo’s Pitta Growth Serum. It has red clover extract and caffeine to control DHT release, and peptides and Ayurvedic botanicals to condition the scalp and encourage stronger hair.
For those in need of nourishing hair growth with the best products, there are a few shampoos that are at the top. Oribe’s formula incorporates pea sprout extract and peptides to strengthen strands and calm the scalp. Aveda’s Invati Ultra Advanced Shampoo incorporates Ayurvedic herbs to stimulate follicles, while Hello Klean’s hard water neutralising shampoo incorporates amino acids to lock in and fortify hair. Kérastase’s Genesis shampoo is also a powerhouse choice, with ginger root and aminexil to prevent breakage and enhance softness.
Champo’s own Pitta Shampoo contains Haritaki fruit and coconut oil to give a volumizing and moisturizing effect. The Steam Bar product provides a scalp-friendly shampoo created especially for Black hair, utilizing amino acids and chicory root to balance and restore. Philip Kingsley’s Density Shampoo and Arkive Headcare keratin-based treatment are great volume builders and scalp treats, too.
In the end, shampoo by itself won’t change your hair overnight, but it can be a strong supporting actor in your journey. When combined with a healthy lifestyle, regular scalp maintenance, and specific treatments, the correct shampoo can contribute to the optimal environment for stronger, healthier, fuller-looking hair.
