The 12 Best Hair Growth Serums for a Fuller Mane
Derm-approved picks that won't disappoint!
Every item on this page was chosen by an ELLE editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.
Thinning hair is far more common than you think, so if you’re experiencing excessive shedding and hair loss, know that you are not alone. Luckily for us, we live in a time where there’s a solution for almost everything. Repairing thinning hair has never been easier or more accessible, thanks to topical treatments that penetrate the scalp like hair growth serums. While some serums require a medical-grade prescription, others can be found over the counter.
Unlike hair growth shampoos and oil-based formulas, hair growth serums are leave-in treatments. They are formulated with more active ingredients known to trigger hair growth and thickening. The most potent types contain minoxidil, which cosmetic dermatologist Dr. Michelle Green shares as the only topical FDA-approved ingredient shown to be effective in triggering new hair growth. “Backed by decades of clinical research, it works by increasing hair follicle size and stimulating the anagen, or growth phase, of the hair cycle,” she explains. “For the best results, they can be used in conjunction with other methods, such as platelet-rich plasma injections and oral medications. However, their performance does depend on the specific ingredients included,” she adds.
Hair growth serums without minoxidil are typically packed with alternative ingredients that encourage the hair follicles to grow healthier, thicker strands, ultimately making the hair look fuller. These ingredients include plant stem cells, peptides, caffeine, rosemary, ginger root, red leaf clover, and basil leaf. “They’re all rich in antioxidants and can stimulate the scalp, increasing blood flow and promoting healthy growth,” explains trichologist and founder of Act+Acre Helen Reveay.
We consulted with experts and researched top-rated products with glowing customer reviews to serve you a list of the 12 best hair growth serums on the market. A healthy, shiny, fuller mane awaits.
Rogaine Women's 2% Minoxidil Topical Solution
Rogaine Women's 2% Minoxidil Topical Solution
Pros
- FDA-approved ingredient
- Derm-recommended
Cons
- Some customers report they grew facial hair with use
When it comes to the all-time best hair growth products, few brands are more revered in the space than Rogaine. “It offers over-the-counter solution and foam formulations with two percent or five percent minoxidil,” says Dr. Green. “The product’s FDA-approval, accessibility, and efficacy backed by clinical research—combined with its high user satisfaction—make it the most popular hair growth serum on the market.”
Grab it in a three-month supply on Amazon, complete with free Prime shipping.
How to use: Apply one millimeter two times daily on the scalp where there is hair loss.
Amazon rating: 4.3/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “I had extensions put in for my wedding that damaged my hair at the crown and caused severe follicle damage. I've tried vitamins and masks with little success, but this product made a world of difference. My hair is growing back thicker and faster than it did before.”
| Key ingredients | Minoxidil |
|---|---|
| Hair type | All |
| Size | 2 fl. oz, pack of 3 bottles |
Act + Acre Cold Processed Stem Cell Serum
Act + Acre Cold Processed Stem Cell Serum
Pros
- Soothes and hydrates the scalp
- Expert-approved
Cons
- Pricey
“My absolute favorite hair growth serum is our Stem Cell serum,” says Reveay. “It harnesses the power of plant cell culture technology, utilizing two percent Swiss apple stem cells that are clinically proven to promote and extend the hair’s natural growth phase while soothing and hydrating the scalp.” Moreover, the formula features aloe vera, bamboo, and pea extract that “work together to reduce the production of free radicals responsible for the premature aging of hair follicles,” she adds.
As an extra perk, a handful of reviewers mention they experienced a boost in volume when using this serum consistently.
How to use: Apply one to two pipettes on clean, damp, or dry hair along the hairline. Massage into your scalp evenly. Do not rinse. Use daily.
Act + Acre rating: 4.7/5 stars
An Act + Acre reviewer says: “This product does what it says. I have been dealing with terrible itchy, flakey, irritated scalp for months, and have been trying to improve my hair health to regrow postpartum hair loss. This product has already made an immediate improvement with just a month of use. I will continue to use these and feel the difference!”
| Key ingredients | Swiss apple stem cells, aloe vera, bamboo, pea extract |
|---|---|
| Hair type | All |
| Size | 2.19 fl. oz. |
Oway Densifying Remedy
Oway Densifying Remedy
Pros
- Works to repair strands
- Expert-approved
Cons
- Takes a while to see results
Reveay calls this another great option, as it “contains Buddleja Davidii plant stem cells and dynagen, which help to reproduce hair follicle cells at the source and increase the hair’s keratin and collagen levels,” she says. According to the haircare brand, the formula is vegan, cruelty-free, and devoid of harsh sulfates and parabens.
How to use: Apply directly to the scalp on wet or dry hair directly after washing and conditioning.
Holistic Chair Tribe rating: 5/5 stars
A Holistic Chair Tribe reviewer says: “After dealing with hair loss for so many years, I was shocked to see results so fast with this amazing products. I totally recommend. I use with the Micro -stimulating hair bath for better results.”
| Key ingredients | Buddleja Davidii plant stem cells, dynagen |
|---|---|
| Hair type | All |
| Size | 3.38 fl. oz. |
Michele Green Hair Revitalizing Serum for Women
Michele Green Hair Revitalizing Serum for Women
Pros
- Clinically-tested ingredients
- Derm-formulated
Cons
- Pricey
“I recommend this product for many women struggling with androgenetic alopecia (or female/male pattern baldness), and the result in hair growth and thickening has been remarkable,” Dr. Green says. In addition to featuring seven percent minoxidil, it has 0.1 percent progesterone. “This is a female hormone that has been shown to inhibit the conversion of testosterone to DHT, the male sex hormone that causes hair loss in both men and women,” she explains.
How to use: Part the hair into one or more rows to expose the areas of the scalp where there is thinning. Apply the product directly to the scalp and massage it in with your fingers. Use twice daily.
A Michele Green reviewer says: “I felt an improvement and noticed an improvement just in time for the summer months.”
| Key ingredients | Minoxidil 7%, progesterone 0.1% |
|---|---|
| Hair type | Thinning |
| Size | 2 fl. oz. |
Nutrafol Growth Activator Hair Serum
Nutrafol Growth Activator Hair Serum
Pros
- Helps to strengthen hair
- Nourishing
Cons
- May leave behind a greasy texture
Instead of using minoxidil, this hair serum includes ashwagandha exosomes, which “can increase cell renewal and protect the scalp from environmental stress,” says Dr. Green. Additionally, it contains antioxidant-rich pea sprouts and green tea to protect against free radicals and sea buckthorn to revive and smooth damaged tresses. “Daily and consistent use of this serum can help minimize breakage, nourish, and hydrate the scalp to maintain scalp health, and improve hair quality and thickness,” she adds.
How to use: Section the hair with the dropper tip and apply the serum directly to your scalp, using enough serum to lightly cover the areas of concern. Massage with your fingertips. Do not rinse. Use daily.
Amazon rating: 4.2/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “This product does what it says. I have been dealing with terrible itchy, flakey, irritated scalp for months and am trying to improve my hair health to regrow postpartum hair loss. These products have already made an immediate improvement with just a month of use.”
| Key ingredients | Ashwagandha Exosomes, green tea, pea extracts |
|---|---|
| Hair type | All |
| Size | 1.7 fl. oz. |
Hair Thickness Maximizer Saw Palmetto Serum
Hair Thickness Maximizer Saw Palmetto Serum
Pros
- Affordable
- Derm-approved
Cons
- Some may not prefer the smell
“Saw palmetto is a botanical extract that has been used by Native Americans as medicine for hundreds of years,” says Dr. Green. “It features antiandrogenic properties that have been shown to improve hair growth in those experiencing androgenetic alopecia and telogen effluvium (or temporary hair loss caused by stress).” Although commonly found in hair growth serums and supplements, Dr. Green says it’s still important to note that “extensive clinical studies are needed to prove its efficacy and safety in long-term use.”
This top-rated formula stars saw palmetto, plus a range of other natural oils like moringa oil for hydration and rosemary oil to help further stimulate hair growth. Keep in mind that since this product is oil-based, it should be washed out of hair following application.
How to use: Apply two to three drops to the scalp in affected areas and gently massage in. Leave on overnight or a minimum of 30 minutes before showering. Apply two to four times per week.
Amazon rating: 4.2/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “I’ve tried so many things for hair thinning and shedding throughout the years, but had no significant results after months of use. This is the first product I’ve used that gives me hope. I just started using this product a few days ago, and I already notice at least a 75 percent reduction in shedding. The hairs at the crown of my head are already feeling thicker, and I had a long-standing sore sensation at the crown of my head that is starting to subside. This stuff is magic! I’m excited about the progress I’ll see in a few weeks/months.”
| Key ingredients | Saw palmetto, rosemary oil, moringa oil |
|---|---|
| Hair type | Dry, brittle, thinning |
| Size | 1 fl. oz. |
Vegamour GRO Hair Serum
Vegamour GRO Hair Serum
Pros
- Clinically-tested
Cons
- May take some time to start seeing results
When you have naturally fine, thin hair, shedding is the last thing you want added to the equation. But this serum from popular vegan haircare brand Vegamour is made to help. It’s powered by turmeric and red leaf clover—two anti-inflammatory ingredients that block DHT production that can lead to hair loss. It also contains mung bean, which features copper that could potentially help enlarge the hair follicle and improve hair growth.
In clinical studies, 52 percent of subjects who used this product experienced an increase in the appearance of hair density, while 76 percent saw less hair shedding.
How to use: Part dry hair into sections and massage the serum into your scalp for one to two minutes. Leave on your scalp for five to 10 minutes then follow with shampoo and conditioner. Use once a week for best results.
Vegamour rating: 4.4/5 stars
A Vegamour reviewer says: “I’ve gotten compliments from my hairdressers and co-workers after using this for almost two months now, so I know this miracle serum works! My hair is fine and tends to break, and I’m noticing baby fine hair growing back where I had patches. I was seriously contemplating purchasing a wig but decided to try this product first, and I’m glad I did.”
| Key ingredients | Turmeric, red leaf clover, mung bean |
|---|---|
| Hair type | All |
| Size | 1 fl. oz. |
Pura D'or Hair Thinning Therapy Energizing Scalp Serum
Pura D'or Hair Thinning Therapy Energizing Scalp Serum
Pros
- Affordable
- Encourages shine
Cons
- May take some time to see results
Curly-haired girls, unite! Since curly locks tend to be dryer and more prone to breakage, you’ll want to look for a hair growth serum that’s particularly nourishing. This one from Pura D'or has a range of ingredients—such as apple stem cells, rosemary oil, and biotin—to stimulate the scalp, alongside argan oil and sacha inchi seed oil to deeply hydrate from root to tip and promote shine.
How to use: Apply daily on damp or dry hair. Lift hair in sections to spray directly onto scalp, and massage. Do not rinse.
Amazon rating: 4.3/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “This serum is growing back my edges!! I have tried other products with little or no results. This took about three weeks to see progress with hair coming back where there was none. Now my hair line is filling in and the hair is getting longer and thicker after a couple months of ever day use. The smell is nice and the serum leaves my hair soft with a nice sheen. Have ordered my second bottle don't want to be without this product!!”
| Key ingredients | apple stem cells, rosemary, biotin, argan oil, sacha inchi seed oil |
|---|---|
| Size | 4 fl. oz. |
| Hair type | All |
Revela Hair Revival Serum
Revela Hair Revival Serum
Pros
- Clinically-tested ingredients
- Innovative formula
Cons
- Pricey
Burgeoning biotech company Revela is a pioneer of innovative beauty products, including this splurge-worthy hair growth serum. It features a groundbreaking ingredient called ProCelinyl, which was discovered using AI and has been clinically shown to improve hair health. The formula is also oil-free and made to be super lightweight, so you can avoid any greasy look or feeling.
How to use: Part your hair around the areas of concern and apply two to three drops evenly in each section, including along the temples. Massage the formula into your scalp and leave it in. Apply daily to dry or towel-dried hair.
Revela rating: 4.82/5 stars
A Revela reviewer says: “I work in healthcare, and over the past few years, my hair has been falling out like crazy. Between the tight, hair-pulling rubber bands on N95 masks and the buns I have to put my hair in on a daily basis, my hairline has been suffering. I wanted to see if this product could just fill in my hairline, and let me tell you, it exceeded my expectations. The visible results at six weeks weren’t as dramatic as I thought, but as I kept using the product, my baby hairs kept growing. After about eight weeks of consistent use, I have much less hair loss throughout the day, and my hairline is visibly fuller.”
| Key ingredients | ProCelinyl |
|---|---|
| Hair type | All |
| Size | 1.4 fl. oz. |
Nécessaire The Scalp Serum
Nécessaire The Scalp Serum
Pros
- Helps nourish and protect the scalp barrier
- Lightweight formula
Cons
- Pricey
Boasting a blend of antioxidant-rich peptides, nourishing hyaluronic acid, and barrier-boosting niacinamide, this Nécessaire serum should help create the ideal environment for new hairs to sprout in. Dozens of reviewers also note it has a lightweight, water-like texture and shouldn’t leave behind an oily residue.
How to use: Apply a dropper full of serum to areas of concern and massage into your scalp with your fingertips. Use daily and do not rinse.
Sephora rating: 4.7/5 stars
A Sephora reviewer says: “This hair serum has worked wonders! I’m in love. I’ve been using it consistently for the past couple of months, morning and night, and my hair is growing a lot faster. And whenever I have an itchy scalp, I’ll put this in, and it would stop right away! Definitely recommend!”
| Key ingredients | Peptides, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide |
|---|---|
| Hair type | All |
| Size | 2 fl. oz. |
The INKEY List Caffeine Stimulating Scalp Treatment
The INKEY List Caffeine Stimulating Scalp Treatment
Pros
- Expert-backed ingredient
- Affordable
Cons
- May take some time to see results
Here’s an excuse to incorporate caffeine into your nighttime routine. This overnight formula uses the ingredient to stimulate the scalp and follicles and, in turn, support hair growth, all while you catch some z’s. “Caffeine has been shown to stimulate circulation, allowing oxygen and essential nutrients to be delivered to the scalp and toxins to be carried away from it,” explains Dr. Green.
How to use: Shake the bottle before use and apply enough formula to cover your entire scalp. Leave on overnight and wash out in the morning, if desired. For the best results, use every night for over a three-month period.
Sephora rating: 4.1/5 stars
A Sephora reviewer says: “About three months after I had covid, my hair started shedding like crazy; I was scared to wash it or brush it because so much would come out. I have really thick hair, and I lost so much of it that other people were noticing. I started using this, and I’ve seen so many baby hairs coming in and little to no shedding. Even my hair dresser noticed the regrowth; this saved my hair!”
| Key ingredients | Caffeine |
|---|---|
| Hair type | All |
| Size | 5 fl. oz. |
The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair Density
The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair Density
Pros
- Expert-backed ingredients
- Affordable
Cons
- May leave behind a slightly greasy residue
A blend of caffeine and peptides work to boost circulation and promote healthy hair growth in this top-rated formula. It also features anti-inflammatory castor oil and arginine, which one study found helped limit hair loss and encourage hair growth when applied topically with zinc. Priced at just $13, it’s also one of the most affordable hair growth serums available.
How to use: Apply a few drops or as needed directly to the scalp. Use daily, ideally at bedtime, on clean, dry hair. Massage in thoroughly and do not rinse.
Ulta rating: 4.2/5 stars
An Ulta reviewer says: “I’ve been applying this product for three months. I was going bald in front from postpartum hair loss, but after using this, my hair in the front has grown back.”
| Active ingredients | Caffeine, peptides, castor oil, arginine |
|---|---|
| Hair type | All |
| Size | 1-2 fl. oz. |
What are some of the main causes of hair loss?
“So many factors can contribute to hair loss, such as age, stress levels, diet, illness, hormonal imbalances, or even product buildup,” says Reveay. “It’s key to distinguish what type of hair loss you are experiencing, as methods of treatment and prevention can vary widely. Hair loss transpires three to six months after a trigger has occurred, so think back and ask yourself questions like, ‘Were you going through something stressful or experiencing changes in your diet?’’ she adds. “Always consult with your doctor and get blood work done to see what’s going on.”
What are the different types of hair loss?
While there are many different types of hair loss, Dr. Green says some of the most common include androgenetic alopecia, traction alopecia, telogen effluvium, trichotillomania, and alopecia areata.
- Androgenetic alopecia: “Also known as male/female pattern baldness, this is the most common type of hair loss,” Dr. Green explains. “There is a strong genetic factor that plays into androgenetic alopecia. In women, there is gradual thinning that occurs around the crown and front portion of the scalp. Hormonal changes and imbalances are common causes of hair loss for women because hair follicles are sensitive to various hormones, including androgens (male hormones) like testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Conditions such as hypothyroidism, PCOS, menopause, pregnancy, childbirth, and stress can all contribute to hormonal changes, thereby affecting hair loss.”
- Telogen effluvium and trichotillomania: These are types of hair loss directly associated with stress. “In telogen effluvium, stress causes hair follicles to enter a resting phase, and the hair falls out or sheds after three months in the resting period,” says Dr. Green. “Taxing events, perhaps a fever, illness, or surgery, can induce 20 to 50 percent of scalp hairs to transition into the telogen phase. Trichotillomania refers to the impulsive disorder of pulling one’s hair, resulting in the removal and damage of the hair follicle.”
- Alopecia areata: “This is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system attacks the body’s own hair follicles,” Dr. Green notes. “It is characterized by circular, non-scarring areas of patchy hair loss or bald patches. There is a strong genetic component to alopecia areata, with anecdotal evidence that stress can contribute to this condition.”
- Traction alopecia: “This is a type of alopecia caused primarily by tightly pulled hairstyles, including ponytails, hair extensions, braids, and dreadlocks,” Dr. Green shares. “It results in missing or broken hairs, typically along the front of the hairline or sides of the scalp, and there may be associated irritation, redness, itching, or pimples in the affected areas. The hair loss can become permanent if the traction alopecia continues and the hair follicles become scarred, unable to form new hairs.”
Are there any other key ingredients to look for in the best hair growth serums?
For one, consider options with finasteride, says Dr. Green. “It’s an FDA-approved oral medication for hair loss that works by inhibiting the activity of 5-alpha-reductase, an enzyme that converts testosterone to DHT—aka the male sex hormone that causes hair loss in both men and women. Recent studies have shown that topical finasteride is just as effective as oral finasteride. A major benefit of topical finasteride is that it is a localized treatment at a lower dosage, which decreases the risk of systemic side effects,” she adds.
Also, it’s important to steer clear of serums featuring ingredients that “strip the scalp or act as an abrasive, such as alcohols, fragrances, silicones, or sulfates,” Reveay notes.
When should I expect to see results?
“Consistent use of hair growth serums, Rogaine, or topical minoxidil/finasteride is key in hair growth, and the results can take up to four to six months,” says Dr. Green. “Results typically show the growth of new baby hairs, a decrease in hair shedding, and potential thickening of the hair.”
“Alternatively, a popular in-office treatment for promoting and maintaining scalp health is HydraFacial Keravive, which stimulates circulation, deeply cleanses, exfoliates, and nourishes the scalp,” adds Dr. Green.
Meet the Experts
Helen Reveay is a hairstylist, certified trichologist, and the founder and creative director of Act+Acre.
Dr. Michele Green is board-certified, cosmetic dermatologist based in NYC and the founder of MGSkinLabs.
Why Trust ELLE Beauty
Sam Peters is a seasoned commerce writer and editor with over five years of experience covering fashion, beauty, and lifestyle topics. For this roundup, she consulted two hair experts about the efficacy of hair growth serums, their recommendations for the best options, and what to look for when shopping. She also considered a range of top-rated hair growth serums on the market, evaluating each on their ingredients offered and customer feedback.
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