After testing 26 hair oils and serums, our top pick for the best hair growth oil is the Mielle Organics Scalp and Hair Strengthening Oil. Enriched with rosemary, mint, and biotin, this formula is designed to provide the scalp with deep nourishment that improves scalp conditions for improved hair health and growth. Plus, it retails for around $10, which is a total steal for a high-quality (and highly effective) hair growth oil.
When testing this hair oil, we were impressed by the gentle formula and loved the cooling and soothing effects of the mint and rosemary. Even though the formula includes mint, it doesn’t provide a tingling sensation, making it an excellent choice for sensitive scalps, too.
Since the formula is an oil-based product, we only tested this out at night, as the formula was a little too heavy for our oily-prone scalp. Nonetheless, we still noticed impressive results while incorporating this into our haircare routine. At the end of the six-week testing period, our roots looked a lot thicker, and we even saw lots of new growth around our hairline.
Size: 4 ounces | Key Ingredients: Rosemary, mint, biotin
Experts Say
“Hair growth products improve a person’s hair density, impacting hair that physically grows from the scalp, and reduce breakage to stop hair snapping at the ends.” —Anabel Kingsley, brand president and consultant trichologist at Philip Kingsley
In addition to the Mielle Organics Scalp and Hair Strengthening Oil, we also love the Vegamour Gro Hair Serum. This runner-up is formulated with curcumin stem cell extract (a.k.a. turmeric) to help protect the scalp against causes of hair loss, red clover to minimize hair thinning, and mung bean for its nourishing properties that strengthen strands and protect against excess shedding.
During the testing period, we were impressed by the formula’s lightweight texture — it’s almost water-like and absorbs super fast, so it’s a great choice for oily hair types. We also loved the applicator and found that it helped evenly distribute the formula without making a mess or dripping onto unwanted areas.
Since this formula is designed for thickening, it’s less effective at lengthening strands. However, it does keep its promises, helps reduce shedding and thinning, and can even support new growth. At the end of the testing period, we noticed our roots looked a little thicker and saw new growth around our hairline.
Size: 1 ounce | Key Ingredients: Curcumin stem cell extract, red clover, mung bean
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Beginner-friendly
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Targets application
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Mess-free
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Hydrating formula
For another budget-friendly option that is highly effective at improving hair length and thickness, we recommend the Wild Growth Hair Oil, which is formulated with a blend of nourishing olive, jojoba, and coconut oils. We love this formula because it’s easy to apply to the scalp, has a lightweight consistency that absorbs well into the scalp and hair, and the applicator makes it easy to target specific areas of concern, too.
When testing this formula, we noticed a difference in our hair’s length and thickness at the end of the six-week period. We also found that our strands were more hydrated — likely thanks to all of those nourishing oils — and loved the way they absorbed into them. That being said, since the included oils are heavier, this formula is most compatible with thick hair and dry scalps. Those with fine hair and more oily-prone scalps might notice some excess residue on their roots.
Size: 4 ounces | Key Ingredients: Olive oil, jojoba oil, coconut oil
Those experiencing hair loss — including hormonal hair loss — might benefit from adding the Advanced Trichology NutraM DHT Blocking Hair Serum to their regimen. While testing this formula, we were immediately impressed by the application process and loved that it comes in a serum bottle with a dropper applicator to deliver the formula directly to the scalp. It’s also fast-drying and doesn’t leave behind a greasy residue, so it’s a formula we actually want to use regularly.
We saw some hair growth after about one month of using this formula. Not only did our hair feel thicker, but we also saw some new growth around our hairline.
Even though the application process requires a lot of product — around one to two full droppers worth — we were quite impressed with how long the formula lasts. After three months of regular testing, we still had half a bottle left.
Size: 2 ounces | Key Ingredients: Melatonin
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Thorough and effective cleanse
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Our hair grew 1.5-2 inches in length
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Doesn’t strip natural oils
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Great lather
After testing 23 hair growth shampoos, we can confidently say that the Vegamour GRO+ Advanced Replenishing Shampoo is the best overall formula for thickening hair and improving length.
During the testing period, we noticed an increase in hair growth after just a few weeks of use, and by the end of the six weeks, our hair grew between 1.5 and 2 inches. Because of this, our hair also looked a lot more voluminous when styled and even felt healthier, too.
In addition to its hair growth benefits, the shampoo also works well at cleansing the scalp and strands — after all, that is its main purpose — and doesn’t strip away natural oils. It also boasts an excellent lather that makes it easier to apply all over without needing to go back for more formula.
Size: 8 ounces | Key Ingredients: Cannabidiol
The Marc Anthony Grow Long Shampoo is enriched with a blend of caffeine, ginseng, and vitamin E, which work together to invigorate the scalp and promote hair growth, prevent further hair loss, and provide plenty of nourishment while also protecting against environmental aggressors — all for under $10 a bottle. This formula lived up to our expectations, and after six weeks of testing, we saw an impressive 1.5 inches of hair growth.
But growing hair is only part of the equation. Since this formula is so nourishing, it ensures hair stays strong and healthy while growing it out. It works especially well at targeting damaged and split ends while also promoting a smoother and shinier finish.
Size: 8.4 ounces | Key Ingredients: Caffeine, ginseng, vitamin E
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Thick and creamy formula
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Doesn’t weigh down strands
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Promotes overall hair health
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Noticeable improvements after 3 weeks
After testing 25 hair growth masks and conditioners, the Redken Extreme Length Conditioner was a clear winner. This nourishing conditioner formula is enriched with amino acids, arginine, and citric acid and is designed to provide hair with the nutrients it needs to grow long and strong without sacrificing hair health.
We love this formula because it has a thick and creamy consistency that provides lots of hydration to strands without feeling too heavy or leaving behind a greasy residue. You also don’t need a ton of product to get the desired results — just one dollop will do, even on longer and thicker hair.
After just three weeks of use, we noticed about 0.5 inches of growth, and by the end of the six-week testing period, we experienced longer hair that also looked a lot healthier, too.
Size: 1, 10.1, 16.9, 33.8 ounces | Key Ingredients: Amino acids, arginine, citric acid
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Improves hairline growth
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Prevents hair fall
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Naturally detangles hair
If you have thinning hair and are looking for something that can help prevent hair fall while also promoting some new growth, we love the Nutrafol Strand Defender Lightweight Strengthening Conditioner for Thinning Hair.
This formula is enriched with ximenia oil, vegan proteins, and glucose fibers and is designed to combat the effects of thinning hair by strengthening strands, improving overall moisture levels and elasticity, and also protecting against future damage. It also naturally detangles strands — even if hair feels a little dry after shampooing — to help keep further damage at bay.
Throughout the testing period, we noticed much less shedding. We also found that, with regular use, the conditioner helped promote some new growth around the hairline and areas where we experienced some thinning prior to incorporating this formula into our haircare routine.
Size: 8.1 ounces | Key Ingredients: Ximenia oil, vegan proteins, glucose fibers
After testing the best shampoos and loving the Marc Anthony Grow Long Shampoo, we weren’t surprised to find that the corresponding conditioner is equally amazing at improving hair growth and strengthening strands. This under $10 hair growth conditioner is enriched with nourishing ingredients such as caffeine, ginseng, and vitamin E to support hair growth, prevent shedding, and provide nourishment and protection against environmental aggressors that wreak havoc on hair health.
Throughout the testing period, we were impressed by the way this formula revitalized our ends and made our hair feel a lot more hydrated and healthy. Just four weeks into the testing period, we saw improved hair growth.
Although the formula provides ample nourishment and helps replenish moisture, we didn’t notice a significant change in our frizz. So if we could change one thing, we would make this a more smoothing formula to help target frizziness and flyaways when styling.
Size: 8.4 ounces | Key Ingredients: Caffeine, ginseng, vitamin E
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Foam tip applicator is easy to use
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A little formula goes a long way
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Improves growth after one month
Minoxidil is an over-the-counter medication used to treat hair loss, and formulas such as this foam from Hers work exceptionally well at improving growth. The foam is enriched with five percent minoxidil and is an FDA-approved treatment for hair loss, and we can confirm that it’s just as effective as it claims to be.
We love that it has a foam tip applicator, which is super easy to use (even if you’ve never tried a hair growth product before) and helps you get the right dose every time. The product works best at targeting loss around the hairline, and after just one month of use, we noticed hairline growth and experienced longer and stronger strands.
The only downside to this formula is that it leaves behind a slight residue on the scalp. Since you have to use it daily, this can make your hair look greasier, so it’s not ideal for oily scalps.
Size: 2.11 ounces | Key Ingredients: Minoxidil
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Comes with three products
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Treatment applicator is easy to use
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A little formula goes a long way
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Improves hair health and growth in one month
The Virtue Hair Growth Treatment isn’t just one formula; it’s an entire routine consisting of the brand’s amazing shampoo and conditioner for thinning hair, plus a Minoxidil formula to target and treat hair loss. The formulas are safe for color-treated hair and can also revive dry, damaged strands with deep conditioning ingredients such as alpha and gamma keratin.
When testing this system, we were impressed by the treatment’s application process. It’s easy to apply to the scalp, absorbs quickly, and doesn’t leave roots and strands feeling super greasy. You also only need to use around one pump to cover the scalp, so a little goes a long way. After four weeks of use, we saw some regrowth, and our hair looked and felt thicker and a lot healthier.
Size: 2 ounces (shampoo), 2 ounces (conditioner), 2.11 ounces (minoxidil) | Key Ingredients: Minoxidil, alpha keratin, gamma keratin
In addition to hair growth conditioners, we also tested several hair mask formulas to find the best ones for deep replenishment while also promoting growth. Our top pick for the best hair mask for hair growth is the Briogeo Avocado + Kiwi Mega Moisture Superfood Mask. Formulated with avocado for its fatty acids, kiwi for its high vitamin C content, and spinach for its flavonoids and antioxidants, this formula is designed to provide a potent dose of moisture while also strengthening and repairing strands.
While testing this formula out, it exceeded our expectations. We love its rich, creamy consistency, which makes it easy to apply all over and achieve even coverage. In addition to delivering on the nourishment front, it also works well at promoting hair growth, too. At the end of the six-week testing period, our hair not only looked a lot healthier but was a lot longer, too.
Size: 8 ounces | Key Ingredients: Avocado, kiwi, spinach
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Long brush bristles
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Great for all hair types
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Ergonomic handle
This scalp brush features super soft bristles that don’t pull on the hair and are long enough to reach the scalp, even when thick hair adds more of a barrier. The ergonomic handle also makes the application process a lot easier and more comfortable on the wrists, so you don’t get tired while working shampoo formulas into your scalp.
Since the bristles help lift away dirt, debris, and product buildup on the scalp, conditioning formulas penetrate the scalp even better when using this massager. With regular use, we noticed our scalp environment improved and our hair had an overall shinier finish.
Materials: Silicone, plastic | Hair Types: All hair types
For a cheaper scalp massager that still works wonders, we recommend the Maxsoft Hair Scalp Massager. This massager features ultra-gentle yet firm bristles that allow you to achieve a good massage without pulling or tugging on strands of hair.
When using this scalp massager, we not only noticed some of the more common benefits — like a cleaner and more ideal scalp environment and better product absorption — but we also saw a difference in our actual hair health. With regular use, our hair looked a lot smoother and had fewer tangles, too.
Materials: Silicone, plastic | Hair Types: All hair types, especially fine to medium-thick hair
This electric scalp massager features a waterproof design, making it possible to incorporate it into your shampoo and conditioning routine without having to worry about shower water. It also has ultra-soft and flexible bristles that don’t tug on your hair, even though they’re activated by a motor.
When testing this scalp massager, we elevated our shampoo and conditioning routine and ultimately experienced cleaner, smoother, and softer hair. We also love that this scalp massager works on other areas of the body, so you get more value from the higher price.
The only downside is its weight. Since it is an electric device, the massager is a little heavier, which might not be ideal for some preferences (especially those with wrist concerns).
Materials: Plastic, silicone | Hair Types: All hair types
The hairs on your scalp aren’t the only hairs on your body that need some TLC. We tested the best eyelash growth serums to see which ones were actually worth the buy, and our top pick is the RevitaLash Cosmetics Advanced Eyelash Conditioner. During testing, we were immediately impressed by this formula’s application process, which is simple, straightforward, and very beginner-friendly.
All you have to do is swipe a thin layer onto the target area, and you’re good to go. In addition to the application process, we love how fast this eyelash serum absorbs, which is ideal for a formula that comes in close contact with the eyes.
With regular use, we noticed that our lashes were much more flexible and resilient — likely thanks to its inclusion of a strengthening BioPeptin Complex — and less prone to breakage, too. After just one month of use, we noticed a significant improvement in our lash length, which nearly doubled.
Size: 0.34, 0.67 ounces | Key Ingredients: BioPeptin complex
For a cheaper eyelash serum, we also recommend the Maybelline Lash Sensational Boosting Eyelash Serum. This drugstore eyelash growth serum is enriched with arginine and pro-vitamin B5 to support eyelash health, improve strength, and promote growth, too. At under $15 a pop, it boasts impressive results compared to some of its more expensive counterparts.
While using this lash serum, we noticed an immediate difference in their appearance — they looked glossier and more hydrated, giving off a supple effect. After just one month of use, we noticed some new growth, too, as well as less breakage overall.
The application process is also super simple, though you’ll want to wipe off some of the excess serum from the applicator brush; otherwise, you will use too much and risk getting it in your eyes.
Size: 0.18 ounces | Key Ingredients: Arginine, pro-vitamin B5
For an ultra-hydrating lash serum that breathes life back into dry, brittle eyelashes, consider Vichy LiftActiv Supreme Eyes and Lashes. This quick-drying formula features hyaluronic acid, a.k.a. a hydration powerhouse that attracts and locks in moisture for improved nourishment.
The eyelash serum comes in a pump bottle, so it’s a little different from others we tried, and the application process isn’t as intuitive. However, we love that it doubles as an under-eye wrinkle cream, allowing you to target some common signs of aging while also promoting longer and stronger lashes, too.
When testing this formula out, we were impressed by how well it hydrated and plumped our lashes, and after just one month of testing, we saw some growth improvement, too.
Size: 0.51 ounces | Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid
What to Know About Hair Growth Products
Ingredient List
Formula ingredients are important in hair growth products, especially the key ingredients. It’s best to use formulas that incorporate ingredients that have been clinically proven to provide hair growth benefits. Dr. Peter Young, M.D., a medical director at Keeps, says to look for plant-based, organic, and science-backed ingredients to “support hair growth and give the appearance of thicker, healthier-looking hair.” Here are some ingredients to consider in hair growth products:
- Biotin: Biotin is a popular hair growth booster and can actually increase keratin production.
- Caffeine: Similar to biotin, caffeine also boosts hair growth by stimulating the follicles.
- Green Tea: Some hair growth products include green tea, which, similar to caffeine, also stimulates the follicles.
- Argan Oil: Rich in beneficial antioxidants, argan oil has a nourishing effect that is essential for optimal scalp and hair health.
- Hyaluronic Acid: Scalp and hair health also play a role in hair growth, so ingredients like hyaluronic acid for lightweight hydration can also elevate hair growth efforts.
In addition to haircare ingredients, Dr. Young says hair growth medications are also worth considering (though it is recommended that you consult a professional first). “Minoxidil is an over-the-counter medication that comes in liquid or foam form and is available in two strengths,” he notes. “Minoxidil helps to shorten the telogen phase of the hair cycle (the shedding phase, which results in excessive daily hair fall), which becomes longer in male or female pattern hair loss and prolongs the time follicles spend actively growing,” Kinglsey adds, noting that it’s the only FDA-approved topical medication for hair growth at the moment.
Scalp Serum
When shopping for hair growth products, Kingsley recommends investing in a scalp serum “to maintain [an] optimal scalp environment, stimulate follicle health, and reduce hair shedding.” Scalp serums come in a variety of formulas, and the ones designed for hair growth can sometimes lead to longer hair but can also target other concerns like hair density, breakage, and overall health.
For a scalp serum designed to trigger hair growth, consider the Vegamour GRO Hair Serum, which is formulated with turmeric to help protect the scalp against causes of hair loss, red clover to minimize hair thinning, and mung bean for its nourishing properties that promote stronger strands and less shedding.
Another good scalp serum for hair growth is the Mielle Organics Scalp and Hair Strengthening Oil, which is enriched with rosemary, mint, and biotin and designed to help thicken hair and promote new growth, especially around the hairline.
Hydration Ability
According to Kingsley, hydration is key when treating hair for improved growth and density. “Healthy hair will stretch up to a third of its length when wet; however, dry, damaged hair will snap under very little tension, causing breaking and inhibiting hair from growing longer and stronger,” she explains. With this in mind, hydrating ingredients and formulas can put the stretch and elasticity back into strands and result in stronger, less breakage-prone hair.
Behind the Scenes
Our PEOPLE Tested team is no stranger to hair growth products and has collectively tested 129 formulas across multiple categories to narrow down the best hair growth shampoos, masks, conditioners, oils, and serums, as well as the best scalp massagers (which can support your hair growth journey). When trying out these formulas, we conducted a mix of lab and real-world testing, carefully considering everything from formulation to application to, of course, efficacy.
- Formulation: We first considered the formulations and looked for key ingredients. Depending on the product type, that includes hyaluronic acid, caffeine, green tea, argan oil, biotin, and minoxidil.
- Application: We also looked at the application, including the packaging and overall process, and considered how easy each formula applies to the scalp and trends, how well they absorb, and if they leave behind a residue.
- Efficacy: After testing the formulas, we made note of the overall efficacy and considered whether or not we experienced any growth or improvement to our hair and if the product results matched their claims.
To find the best hair growth products overall, our PEOPLE Tested team spent hundreds of hours with the formulas. After experiencing the formulas firsthand, we then compiled our notes together and chose the best of the best formulas for this list of our favorite hair growth products.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Do hair growth products actually work?
“It widely varies on the formulation, product type, and brand,” says Kingsley. When in doubt, she recommends looking at ingredients and formulas that undergo clinical trials with proven results. If you experience excessive hair loss, it’s recommended to seek the advice of a professional, who can provide further insight on the cause of your hair loss and might prescribe additional measures such as minoxidil.
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Can thinning hair grow back?
While hair thinning might feel alarming, experts assure that thinning hair can grow back, especially when taking good care of your hair with clinically proven ingredients and formulas and, in more severe cases, using over-the-counter medications such as minoxidil. With that said, Dr. Young says it’s also important to address health habits that can compound the issue of thinning hair.
“Taking care of yourself with a healthy, well-balanced diet, getting plenty of sleep, and eliminating stressors in your life will help maintain proper functions of your body, including hair growth,” he explains. He recommends consulting with your healthcare provider, who might order a blood test to check for vitamin and nutrient levels. “Taking certain vitamins could curb that extra hair shedding if your levels are low.”
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What oil is best for hair growth?
According to Dr. Young, there is not just one oil that is best for hair growth; there are several. “There is one study that shows that coconut oil assisted with decreasing how much protein the hair lost, which basically means it prevented the hair from getting weaker,” he notes. Additionally, Dr. Young recommends high-monounsaturated fat oils such as argan oil, almond oil, and olive oil for hair loss, since these can provide the scalp and hair with deep nourishment and protect against oxidative stress.
Why Trust PEOPLE?
Jessie Quinn is a contributing commerce writer for PEOPLE and has written for publications such as Byrdie, InStyle, The Spruce, NYLON, and more. With a decade of beauty writing under her belt, Jessie is no stranger to hair growth efforts and has spent many years testing hair growth products as well as interviewing top haircare experts to learn more about how to promote hair growth and the benefits of hair growth products. When researching the best hair growth products, Jessie included several formulas she has personally tried and loved as well as top-recommended products from PEOPLE testers and customers. She also interviewed hair growth experts to learn more about the benefits of hair growth products and what to look for when shopping for formulas.
What Is PEOPLE Tested?
We created the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval to help you find the very best products for your life. We use our unique methodology to test products in three labs across the country and with our network of home testers to determine their effectiveness, durability, ease of use, and so much more. Based on the results, we rate and recommend products so you can find the right one for your needs.
But we don’t stop there: We also regularly re-review the categories in which we’ve awarded the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval — because the best product of today might not be the best of tomorrow. And by the way, companies can never buy our recommendation: Their products must earn it, fair and square.
In short, PEOPLE Tested provides recommendations you can trust — every day, every purchase.