Shampoo that thickens your hair? Sign us up! So long as it actually works, right? Thickening shampoo is all the rage right now, but what is it?

In short, thickening shampoos are shampoos that contain ingredients like rice starch or keratin to "thicken" your hair. This makes them a popular choice for people with thinning hair because they can build up more volume. However, this isn’t always a good option, as thickening shampoos can also cause your hair to become greasy and heavy. They also don't actually make your hair thicker, they just create a layer of oils that blocks hair from absorbing water.

It's also worth noting that thickening shampoo does not promote hair growth, only the appearance of thicker hair. If you're looking for a shampoo that will help your hair grow, look for one with ingredients like biotin or keratin.

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What Is Thickening Shampoo?

Thickening shampoo is a type of shampoo that contains ingredients like rice starch or keratin to "thicken" your hair. This makes them popular for people whose hair thinning but want to add more volume. However, this may not be the best choice if you have oily strands and don't want greasy hair.

Keratin is an ingredient found in many thickening shampoos. It helps to create a layer of oils that block hair from absorbing water, which can result in greasy strands and weighed down locks. Rice starch is another common thickener, as it serves the same function as keratin but is gentler on your hair.

The B-5 vitamin, panthenol, is also often found in thickening shampoo. This vitamin helps to promote hair growth, so if you're looking for a solution that will yield visible results without any harsh side effects, look for a product with this addition.

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How Does Thickening Shampoo Work?

Thickening shampoo works by adding a layer of oils to your hair that prevents it from absorbing water. This in turn creates thicker strands and an appearance of more volume. However, this is only temporary—after the shampoo has been washed out, your hair will once again be dry and less voluminous.

This doesn’t mean that thickening shampoo is a bad choice, as it can be helpful for people who have thinning hair and want to add some extra thickness. However, if you are looking for a solution that will actually make your hair thicker, you'll want to use a medication that promotes hair growth like Finasteride.

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What Is the Difference Is Between Thickening and Volumizing Shampoo?

The two terms are often used interchangeably, but there is a big difference between them. Thickening shampoo creates an overly-thick layer of oils that can impede hair from absorbing water and result in greasy strands. Volumizing shampoos, on the other hand, help to boost root volume by adding ingredients like silicone or evaporated water to the formula. This helps hair feel fuller and thicker, but they won't necessarily make your strands greasy.

Those who have dry hair should look for thickening shampoos that also contain ingredients like argan oil or coconut oil to help hydrate hair. These shampoos will work better on those who have thinning strands but are looking for a way to add volume without feeling weighed down by product.

Volumizing shampoos are typically less expensive than thickening shampoos, but both types of shampoo can be found at most drugstores. If you're looking to add a little more volume and thickness to your hair without any extra oils, choose a volumizing shampoo over a thickening one.

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How Often To Use Thickening Shampoo For The Greatest  Results

Thickening shampoo is meant to be used as needed, and you can use it every day if you want. However, some people find that it's easiest to just alternate between using a conditioner and thickening shampoo. This way, your hair will stay moisturized without having any added weight.

There are no downsides to using thickening shampoo, as long as you follow the instructions and don't use it too often. Too much of anything can actually be damaging to your hair, so err on the side of caution when it comes to this product.

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Experiencing Hair Loss?

Many turn to thickening shampoo as a way to promote thicker hair, but this can actually lead to greasy strands and even more hair loss.

If you're experiencing excessive thinning or lost locks, it may be best to look for solutions that are less damaging. Some products that have been known to help include biotin supplements and serums, as well as hair growth treatments like Rogaine or extensions.

Finasteride is a proven, FDA-approved prescription drug that helps regrow hair. It is prescribed to men who are experiencing significant hair loss androgenic alopecia, or male pattern baldness.

While it's not a cure-all for everyone, Finasteride can be an effective choice if you're looking for a long-term solution to your problem. Complete an assessment with one of our board-certified doctors, have a quick text chat, and be on your way to regaining that confidence!