If you have noticeable hair loss or want to prevent it, plenty of treatments can help. Prescription and over-the-counter products can nurture the scalp, strengthen each hair strand, stimulate follicles and block hormones that influence hair loss. But your specific treatment depends on several factors, including the type of hair loss you're experiencing and its severity.
In some ways, your sex plays a role too. According to Elle de Moll, dermatologist at Elite Dermatology Physicians, the fundamental science behind hair growth is the same between men and women. However, men's hormone levels influence hair loss differently. "Androgens are hormones that promote classically male characteristics, and androgens can interfere with hair growth. While men and women both have androgens, men have higher levels, which is why it is common for men to often suffer from more hair loss and possibly at a younger age," she explains.
Viktoryia Kazlouskaya, dermatologist at Dermatology Circle in New York City, adds that men more commonly experience a hereditary condition called androgenic alopecia, which is provoked by a specific androgen called dihydrotestosterone, or DHT. In excess, this androgen causes male pattern baldness. But there are prescription medications and OTC treatments that block DHT and promote a healthier scalp environment for hair regrowth.
Consulting a professional is the best way to guide your hair regrowth journey, but there are products you can try on your own. After discussing treatment options with our experts, we selected the top eight products men should consider to help regrow hair. Our top five options are treatments that directly influence hair growth. The last three are styling products that support hair growth while protecting the scalp, hair and follicles.
Best hair growth products for men
Hims
Best overall hair growth treatment
Hims
Cost: Varies | Key ingredients: Minoxidil, dutasteride, finasteride
Ross Kopelman, hair surgeon at Kopelman Hair Restoration, says most male patients benefit from oral or topical minoxidil, finasteride or dutasteride, depending on the severity of their hair loss. While minoxidil is an effective OTC treatment, finasteride and dutasteride are prescription-only treatments. In some cases, combining them can be effective too.
We chose Hims as our best overall hair growth product for men because it provides OTC and prescription options depending on your needs. This telehealth platform connects you with a licensed healthcare professional for treatment recommendations based on your hair loss symptoms.
Hims offers a few oral and topical "hair hybrid" treatments that combine ingredients like minoxidil and finasteride. While both ingredients are FDA-approved individually, the compounded formulation is not. "The key issue is that the FDA approves drugs individually for specific indications, but when a pharmacy or company combines ingredients like finasteride and minoxidil into a single product, that new formulation hasn't gone through the FDA's approval process. That doesn’t mean it's unsafe or ineffective. That just means it hasn't been formally evaluated as a combination," explains Kopelman. "Doctors prescribe off-label medications all the time, especially when research supports their effectiveness, and compounded medications can be a great option for some patients."
Pros
- Offers professionally recommended solutions
- Uses effective active ingredients
- Discreet shipping to your door
- Unlimited ongoing support via app
Cons
- Can be costly
- Doesn't accept insurance
$22 at Hims
Rogaine
Best topical treatment for hair growth
Men's Rogaine
Cost: $60 (three-month supply), $102 (six-month supply) | Key ingredient: Minoxidil
Men's Rogaine is an effective OTC treatment with the FDA-approved ingredient minoxidil. Kopelman, de Moll and Kazlouskaya agree that minoxidil is the most effective OTC ingredient for hair growth. "It was originally an oral blood pressure medication that was found to cause hair overgrowth as a side effect. The topical 5% formulation can cause hair growth of the scalp, eyebrows or beard quite effectively," says de Moll.
This topical treatment is foam, which spreads easily across larger areas. You can purchase a three-month supply for $60, although the brand recommends a six-month subscription (about $102) for best results. Results take three to six months, depending on the person, so a subscription could be worth the investment. Unfortunately, you can't purchase a single bottle to test your tolerance, but most do tolerate it well when they use it as instructed.
Pros
- FDA-approved OTC ingredient
- Effective for head and facial hair
- Available as a six-month subscription
Cons
- Unavailable as a single bottle to test tolerance
- 5% minoxidil solution can irritate some over time
$60 at Rogaine
Nizoral
Best shampoo for hair growth
Nizoral
Cost: $40 | Key ingredient: Ketoconazole
Shampoos only stay on your head briefly, so they’re less effective in combating hair loss than leave-in treatments. But if you have hereditary hair loss, one shampoo ingredient is more helpful than others. "Ketoconazole has been shown to be helpful in hair loss through a proposed mechanism of its local anti-androgen properties," says de Moll. This DHT-blocking active ingredient is in Nizoral, our best shampoo for men with hair loss.
Nizoral is also the best overall pick in our Best Shampoos for Thinning Hair roundup because it offers additional benefits. "As an anti-dandruff shampoo, it can also treat underlying inflammation, ensuring a healthy scalp environment for hair growth," says de Moll. But it's important to stick to the instructions, as overuse can lead to a dry scalp.
Pros
- Contains ketoconazole, an effective DHT blocker
- Specifically targets hereditary hair loss
- Also targets dandruff and mild inflammation to promote a healthier scalp
Cons
- Can dry the scalp with overuse
- Shampoos aren't as effective as leave-in products
$40 at Nizoral
Happy Head
Best natural shampoo duo for hair growth
Happy Head Thickening Shampoo and Conditioner
Cost: $72 (one-time purchase, subscription pricing available) | Key ingredient: Saw palmetto
Happy Head is a telehealth platform that connects you with professionally recommended treatments, similar to Hims. Although its specialty is prescription solutions, it also offers OTC products. Its shampoo and conditioner earn a spot on our list because they provide a natural alternative to ketoconazole and don't contain parabens or sulfates that can dry or irritate the scalp.
The most notable ingredient, saw palmetto, is included in both products. Kopelman explains that saw palmetto isn't as effective as ketoconazole in blocking DHT, but it's a good natural alternative. These products also include several supportive ingredients that can promote a healthier scalp environment for hair growth, including biotin, collagen and argan oil.
The set costs $72 per order, or you can subscribe. The subscription costs $38 for the first month, then moves to $55 monthly. This is between $3 and $4.50 per fluid ounce (combined), which is reasonably priced compared to similar shampoos on the market.
Pros
- Contains saw palmetto, a natural DHT blocker
- Monthly subscription plan available
- Cruelty-free and made without parabens or sulfates
Cons
- Relatively small bottles may run out quickly
- Shampoos aren't as effective as leave-in products
$38 at Happy Head
Nutrafol
Best hair serum for hair growth
Nutrafol Hair Serum
Cost: $49 | Key ingredients: Ashwagandha exosomes, caffeine
This serum has a unique, technically advanced formula with ashwagandha exosomes. These are smaller components (like proteins and fats) of the ashwagandha plant, an herb backed by some evidence of promoting hair growth. Nutrafol claims that the scalp absorbs these exosomes easily because of their small size, so it works quicker and more effectively than other treatments.
This serum also contains caffeine. Bridgette Hill, certified trichologist and Culligan Water Wellness ambassador in New York, says caffeine is among the top active ingredients to look for in a plant-based topical. The ingredient can stimulate the scalp, promoting hair growth and preventing fallout.
Hair serums are best for targeted treatments, while foams are better for broad coverage. There are more cost-effective solutions for larger areas. If you want to treat your whole scalp or beard area and are open to synthetic products, consider Hims or Rogaine instead.
Pros
- Technically advanced plant-based formula
- Best for targeted treatment
Cons
- Lacks ingredients with substantial clinical support
- Expensive
$49 at Nutrafol
Other hair growth products we recommend for men
We don't always consider choosing the right styling products when we're concerned about hair loss. Gels and creams don't always have ingredients that contribute directly to hair growth, but some can strengthen strands and promote a healthier scalp. According to Kopelman, the wrong styling products will make thinning hair look worse and, in some cases, even contribute to hair loss over time.
"When choosing styling products like pomades, creams, or gels, it's important to avoid anything with high alcohol content, which can dry out both the hair and scalp, leading to increased brittleness and shedding," he says. Heavy waxes and petroleum-based products can also contribute to hair loss because they clog follicles, create buildup and may cause inflammation — all things you want to avoid when it comes to regrowing hair. Unfortunately, this may mean spending more on quality ingredients.
"I recommend lightweight, water-based styling products that won't weigh the hair down or make it look greasy. Look for products infused with beneficial ingredients like biotin, keratin, caffeine or natural oils,” Kopelman says. "And when you're styling, be gentle. Excessive heat from blow dryers or aggressive brushing can weaken already fragile hair, so it's best to minimize stress on the follicles as much as possible."
Highland
Best styling cream to reduce frizz
Highland Glacial Cream
Cost: $29 (subscription pricing available) | Key ingredients: Vegetable glycerin, cetyl alcohol, caffeine, shea butter
This frizz-busting styling cream contains several ingredients to hydrate and smooth hair while promoting growth. It's also a water-based formula that provides lightweight control and a matte look, so heavy ingredients won't weaken and weigh down your hair.
Highland uses vegetable glycerin, cetyl alcohol (a fatty hydrating alcohol) and shea butter to hydrate, nourish and de-frizz hair without leaving it looking greasy. It's also light yet strong enough to enhance curls in short hair. But its standout ingredient is caffeine, which promotes hair growth and prevents fallout (similar to the Nutrafol Hair Serum).
This product also has additional ingredients like arrowroot powder that help absorb natural oils that build up throughout the day. The powder helps hair look more voluminous, a similar effect to dry shampoo.
Pros
- Natural water-based formula hydrates and smoothes hair
- Light feel and matte look make hair appear voluminous
- Contains caffeine, which may promote hair growth
Cons
- Not ideal for longer hair or those who need stronger hold
- Costly compared with basic styling creams
$29 at Highland
Act + Acre
Best volumizing styling cream
Act + Acre Styling Paste
Cost: $38 (subscription pricing available) | Key ingredients: Meadowfoam seed oil, candelilla wax, abyssinian oil
Act + Acre is the best styling product if you want visibly denser, voluminous hair. It lacks silicone, a controversial ingredient that conditions hair but weighs it down over time. Instead, it uses a natural oil called meadowfoam seed oil to hydrate hair without buildup. This oil works alongside candelilla wax to volumize hair by separating hair strands, providing a thick, bouncy look.
We also like how this product includes Abyssinian oil for hair protection. Act + Acre explains that this ingredient protects against heat and sun damage, which can contribute to follicle aging and hair breakage. While the styling paste doesn't contain clinically backed ingredients to treat hair loss, its formula does promote stronger hair and a healthier scalp, which is important for hair growth.
Pros
- Silicone- and petrolatum-free
- Formulated with natural oils that separate strands and volumize
- Claims to protect the hair cuticle and promote scalp health
Cons
- Lacks ingredients directly linked to hair growth
- Expensive
$38 at Act + Acre
Church California
Best pomade
Church California Coastal Creme Pomade
Cost: $30 | Key ingredients: Rosemary, seaweed, comfrey, lavender, cleavers
This water-based, all-natural formula contains rosemary, which has some evidence supporting hair growth. We like that this lightweight pomade also contains other natural ingredients, like cleavers and seaweed, that the brand claims will fortify strands and follicles for stronger hair. Its formula also includes natural anti-microbial ingredients, like lavender, to keep the scalp healthy and free of fungus or other microbes that might contribute to hair loss.
Pros
- Lightweight hold with a natural finish
- Completely botanical
- Strengthens hair and promotes a healthier scalp
Cons
- Expensive
- Lighter hold isn't ideal for longer hair
$30 at Church California
How we picked the best hair growth products for men
We discussed effective treatments and active ingredients with dermatologists and hair surgeons to understand what to look for in hair loss products for men. Our picks prioritize FDA-approved ingredients (like minoxidil and finasteride), clinically effective treatments or natural alternatives recommended by experts.
Always see a healthcare professional before starting any treatment regimen. They can identify your type of hair loss and recommend the correct products, which may include prescribed medication or botanical solutions.
Types of hair growth products for men
Hair growth products come in different forms, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.
Oral medications: Healthcare professionals prescribe these medications, often containing minoxidil, finasteride or dutasteride. Hims offers compounded versions of oral medicines that combine two of these medications. These combos aren't FDA-approved, but Kopelman says they can still be clinically effective by tackling hair loss from different angles.
Topical foams: Foams like Rogaine often contain treatments like minoxidil. These topicals can cover broad areas, like the scalp and beard.
Topical serums: Serums contain synthetic treatments like minoxidil or natural alternatives like caffeine. These topicals can cover smaller areas, targeting thin spots or bald patches. You can cover larger areas, although foams tend to be more cost-effective.
Shampoos: Our experts agree that shampoos aren't as effective as leave-in topicals because they stay on the head for a shorter time. One key ingredient, ketoconazole, can block DHT and promote hair regrowth. However, shampoos play a more supportive role by protecting the scalp environment.
Styling creams and pomades: While styling products aren't necessarily for hair growth, they can play a significant role in scalp and hair health. Kopelman says that the best styling products for hair growth are water-based and lightweight, so they don't weigh down hair strands or clog follicles. A few brands like Highland include natural ingredients that have modest evidence in promoting hair growth. But like shampoos, styling creams and pomades play a more of a secondary role in supporting growth.
Supplements: Experts agree that supplements are most effective in people with nutrient deficiencies. Hill explains that hair supplements provide necessary vitamins the body may need and may also block harmful androgens that lead to hair loss, while improving cellular turnover and blood circulation. But Kopelman says supplements aren't necessary for everyone. It's always best to ask a healthcare provider before starting a supplement regimen.
Most men should be aware of the few known side effects of minoxidil, finasteride and dutasteride. Kopelman warns that minoxidil can initially cause some shedding in the first few months, which can be alarming, but it's a normal part of the process that weeds out weaker hairs and makes way for stronger regrowth. A small percentage of users may experience reduced libido or mild dizziness while taking finasteride or dutasteride. These two DHT-blocking medications can also slightly lower sperm count, although this can be reversible when you stop the medication.
Men with female partners should also be cautious with finasteride. "Pregnant women or those trying to conceive should avoid direct contact with crushed or broken finasteride tablets, as the medication can potentially impact fetal development. However, normal sexual contact doesn't pose any risk," Kopelman says.
Benefits of using hair growth products for men
According to Hill, there are many advantages to using hair growth products beyond, well, hair growth. Store-bought products may require some trial-and-error and patience. But with consistency, you might see results like the ones listed below.
Healthier scalp: Some products, like ketoconazole, can prevent hair loss by reducing inflammation on the scalp. Other products might include ingredients like niacinamide, which Kopelman says can help improve scalp circulation and promote a healthier scalp environment for sustainable hair growth.
Hair and beard regrowth: Treatments that contain minoxidil will encourage hair growth, while medications like dutasteride can block DHT. Both play different roles in restoring hair fullness. Kopelman, de Moll and Kazlouskaya agree that minoxidil treatments can also promote beard growth similar to hair growth on the scalp. Some natural alternatives, like saw palmetto, are also known to work, but not as well as their synthetic counterparts.
Stronger hair and follicles: Many products reduce shedding and breakage, which leads to less fallout and fuller hair appearance. Kopelman says biotin is a popular example of an ingredient that strengthens hair rather than stimulating new growth, yet it can still lead to fuller-looking hair.
Kopelman notes that hair growth products can also be part of a preventative plan that keeps follicles active longer. Preventative plans could require using topical minoxidil at the first sign of hair thinning or choosing higher-quality styling products.
Changing up your styling habits can also help prevent hair loss. "Many men come into my office asking whether their styling habits could contribute to hair loss. The truth is, certain styling practices (like wearing hair in tight ponytails or braids, or aggressively combing wet hair) can put unnecessary tension on hair follicles and accelerate hair loss," says Kopelman. He recommends using a wide-tooth comb instead of a fine-tooth one to reduce pulling, avoiding excessive heat styling tools to protect strands, and always using a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo to minimize scalp irritation.
"Another common concern I hear is whether wearing hats causes hair loss. The answer is no. Hats themselves don't cause hair loss unless they're extremely tight and constantly pulling on the scalp. In fact, a hat can be protective, shielding the scalp from UV rays that can contribute to premature follicle aging," he adds. "As long as you're not suffocating your scalp with a sweaty, dirty hat every day, there's no real reason to worry."
Hill says that water quality might also contribute to hair and scalp health. If the water in your area is known for its hardness (or is mineral-heavy), a water softener can help. "It's easy to overlook water quality as a cause of hair loss, but I would advise you to look closer at your water. Hard water can cause mineral buildup on your scalp, weaken your roots and strip your hair of natural oils," she says. "Excess minerals can make your hair brittle, dry and frizzy. They can also interfere with chemical treatments or coloring."
FAQs
Can a man's hair grow back?
According to Kopelman, hair can regrow if the follicle is still active. Once a follicle stops producing hair, it can't reactivate.
Can you regrow thinning hair in males?
You can regrow thinning hair as long as the follicle is still active. Oral or topical medications can work, but the type of medication depends on your type of hair loss and its severity.
What grows bald spots fast?
Nothing will grow a bald spot fast. Kopelman warns against using products that claim fast-acting ingredients and quick results. Treatments take time to work, so you must be patient, allowing three to six months before seeing and evaluating results.
How can you thicken men's hair?
You can thicken men’s hair by increasing the hair count with medications that promote growth or by volumizing hair by separating strands. You can also prevent breakage or fallout by choosing products that strengthen follicles and strands, which can improve the appearance of hair over time.
What is minoxidil?
Minoxidil is the only OTC FDA-approved ingredient that regrows hair. It's in many hair growth products, including Rogaine. Kazlouskaya often recommends her patients start with minoxidil if they're looking for reliable store-bought solutions.
Does Rogaine really work?
Rogaine contains minoxidil, which is clinically effective in regrowing hair. Our experts agree that minoxidil works, so Rogaine should have similar results.
Meet our experts
Dr. Elle de Moll, dermatologist at Elite Dermatology Physicians in New Canaan, Connecticut
Bridgette Hill, certified trichologist and Culligan Water Wellness ambassador, New York City
Dr. Ross Kopelman, FACS, hair surgeon at Kopelman Hair Restoration in New York, New Jersey and Florida
Dr. Viktoryia Kazlouskaya, dermatologist at Dermatology Circle in New York City, New York
