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Posted: 2024-03-07T10:45:24Z | Updated: 2024-03-07T10:45:24Z The Over-The-Counter Products Dermatologists Recommend To Combat Thinning Hair | HuffPost Life

The Over-The-Counter Products Dermatologists Recommend To Combat Thinning Hair

Experts suggest shampoos, treatments and other tools to help manage hair loss and excessive shedding.
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Amazon, Kiierr
Nizoral anti-dandruff shampoo and a medical-grade laser hair-growth cap .

So youve been noticing some hair thinning around your temples and a bit more shedding left behind in your brush. And while hair loss is a common occurrence, resulting from a whole host of mostly benign causes , its still OK to want the same luscious locks you may have once had. After speaking with a couple of dermatologists, we learned that this is totally possible, thanks to products that you dont have to leave your home to use. 

But before you find the right over-the-counter treatment for you and your specific type of hair loss, board-certified and New York City-based dermatologist Dr. Blair Murphy-Rose said that its a good idea to treat the underlying cause (if there is one) to get the best results.

According to her, hormonal thinning and telogen effluvium a kind of excessive shedding caused by anything from metabolic stress to changes in medication are two of the most common causes of hair loss. She said other causes can include nutritional deficiencies, genetic predispositions or underlying medical conditions like a thyroid disorder. 

It is important to have an evaluation of your hair and scalp health [from a medical professional], and to discuss potential underlying conditions, Murphy-Rose said, adding that a dermatologist is well within the realm to do so.  

In the case of a vitamin deficiency, Murphy-Rose said that you may have to supplement your diet with additional iron or vitamin D3. Hormonal thinning and telogen effluvium, on the other hand, may be improved with topical treatments, shampoos and more. 

Learn just what these dermatologist-suggested products are in the list ahead, but before you do, New York City-based and board-certified dermatologist Dr. Brendan Camp reminded us: Hair loss treatments should be used for at least three to four months before deciding if they are effective or not. 

HuffPost and its publishing partners may receive a share from purchases made via links on this page. Every item is independently selected by the HuffPost Shopping team. Prices and availability are subject to change. The experts consulted for this story do not necessarily endorse the products ahead unless otherwise noted.

1
A classic minoxidil treatment
Both New York City-based and board-certified dermatologists Dr. Brendan Camp and Dr. Blair Murphy-Rose had Rogaine at the tops of their lists of goods with hair-growing potential.

"Minoxidil is the active ingredient in Rogaine and it is thought that minoxidil helps hair remain in the growing phase of its growth cycle," Camp explained of this well-known treatment, available in formulas for both men and women.

It features a 5% concentration of this active ingredient along with a variety of botanical extracts and humectants which can draw moisture into the hair. The once-a-day treatment is also in the form of a foam, an important requirement according to Camp so the product won't drip down to other areas of the face, thus risking unwanted hair growth.

Minoxidil belongs to a class of drugs known as vasodilators, so be sure to read the list of side effects and speak to your doctor before using.
2
A widely endorsed ketoconazole shampoo
This isn't the first time we've had experts sing the praises of the reviewer-beloved Nizoral shampoo , a "gold-standard" of dandruff treatments, according to one dermatologist.

"The active ingredient in this dandruff shampoo is [1%] ketoconazole, which has antifungal properties," Camp explained. And although he admits that evidence is limited, ketoconazole may help to reduce inflammation and the hormonal influences that can contribute to hair loss in addition to helping to alleviate dandruff.

And if you're traumatized by other medicated anti-dandruff shampoos in the past, reviewers assure us that, unlike other market options that smell unpleasant, are harsh on hair and can have it feeling dry and gunky, Nizoral leaves tresses soft and clean-smelling.
3
A medial-grade red light cap
Suggested by Camp, the Kiierr hair growth cap uses up to 272 medical-grade diode lasers to stimulate hair growth. "Low-level light therapy (LLLT) makes use of the biological effect of light on hair follicles," Camp explained. This hands-free and FDA-cleared cap comes in three diode options and can fit securely on a variety of head sizes thanks to the stretch-fit band within the cap.

"The frequency and duration with which these products need to be worn vary depending on the manufacturer," he said as a general note about this kind of light therapy.
4
Soultanicals
A natural hair oil with a variety of herbal infusions
Camp and Murphy-Rose mentioned that the inclusion of rosemary oil in your hair care routine may prove to be beneficial for managing excessive shedding. This is because "rosemary oil is a source of carnosic acid that is thought to help reduce inflammation and stimulate hair growth," according to Camp.

He suggested this natural and herbal-infused treatment featuring a nourishing blend of several oils from olive to rosemary to castor. It uses green tea, an ingredient containing the antioxidant EGCG which some research suggests can enhance hair growth and follicle elongation.
5
A rosemary hair strengthening oil
In line with Camp and Murphy-Rose's advice regarding rosemary oil, we thought it would be worthwhile to include the viral Mielle oil , a rosemary mint scalp and hair strengthening treatment that has become TikTok-famous for its anecdotal claims surrounding improved hair health and growth. (Its Amazons second-best seller in the beauty and personal care category.) The biotin-infused formula contains nutrient oils including jojoba, grape seed and evening primrose, all of which can address dryness and brittle-feeling hair along with other scalp health factors that can affect hair retention.
6
Advanced Trichology
A DHT-blocking shampoo
"Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is a hormone thought to be responsible for hair shrinkage and loss," Camp said. "This shampoo is formulated with saw palmetto, a botanical ingredient, that is thought to inhibit the activity of DHT and promote hair growth."

Endorsed by the American Hair Loss Association, this clinically developed shampoo claims to target three different zones of hair loss including those from inflammatory and nutritional causes.
7
Another DHT-blocking shampoo with biotin and pumpkin seed oil
We found another DHT-blocking shampoo that's similar to Camp's above suggestion. It's an aloe vera-based formula containing saw palmetto, nourishing argan oil and tons of other hair-loving ingredients. It also features the inclusion of pumpkin seed oil, an ingredient that Murphy-Rose said might be helpful for some people.

Before You Go

Reviewers Reveal Amazon's Best Curl-Defining Brushes For Curly And Textured Hair
A flexible-teeth detangling brush(01 of11)
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Tangle Teaser, a hair brand with a few different brush styles that you may have seen all over TikTok , is the maker behind this detangling brush designed for all hair types. It features a paddle-style brush head with 325 uniquely flexible and varying sized bristles that claims to smooth and detangle even the most fragile of hair, either wet or dry. It comes in four sizes and tons of colors. Also, if you have 3C hair and above, there's a version just for thick hair with firmer bristles than the original.

Promising Amazon review: "I have high density kinky curly hair. Compared to other brushes, this one glides through my hair with no pain and takes out the shed hair effortlessly. The teeth take their original form after brushing and dont bend permanently in the direction of brushing.
This large size is perfect for long and high density hair and I can take good size sections and go through. The material seems it will be easy to wash and dish soap or shampoo should do the trick.
I used it for the first time on dry hair and it was no issue. I simply used some spray leave in conditioner after removing braids and that was sufficient. I see no breakage at all too.
If youre thinking about it, its worth it. If I remember I will update when I actually use it on wash day.
Oh yeah! I also have carpal tunnel syndrome in my dominant hand and if I simply hold it by the head of the brush I wont have pain. My arm got tired but thats because I have really dense hair, not because of the brush." danielle
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An ergonomic and no-tug brush(02 of11)
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Ergonomically shaped so it's easy on wrists and hands, the Crave Naturals detangling brush claims to glide through knots and tangles without any painful yanking or pulling. This is because the bristles are uniquely cone-shaped and both flexible yet firm so they separate knots, rather than aimlessly tugging at them. Use this on both wet or dry hair. It comes in nine different colors and patterns.

Promising Amazon review: "I only EVER leave reviews if the product is outstanding. This brush runs through my DRY 3C hair like its nothing! Barely takes any hair with it, and barely hurts! I used to dread brushing my hair when dry and would just wait til I washed my hair again to brush it, now I look forward to it. And it barely pulls out any hair! My old hair brush used to pull out damn near a handful every time I brushed my hair wet or dry! Please please please buy this . Im not sure how this brush doesnt have 5.0 ratings all around." Candace Noel
(credit:Amazon)
A two-way flexible brush(03 of11)
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Each row of this versatile brush moves and extends as it's brushed across hair to painlessly detangle even the tightest of coils. The brush can be used two ways: either vertically to release tangles and knots, then horizontally to smooth and define curls. Available in five colors, this brush can be used on wet or dry hair.

Promising Amazon review: "My son has 4c hair and sensory processing disorder.... a horrible combination lol For years he has screamed and fought having his hair done, but also completely rejects short hair. Because it's such a fight, he usually looks like a train wreck. I just did his hair in the tub with plenty of cowash and this brush was amazing!! Start at the ends and use a short 'combing' action, then run it through the length of the hair. After the 2nd or 3rd pass, it went through like butter!!!! He said (not screamed) ouch twice, that's it!
Doing his hair used to take over an hour in the tub with him screaming and demanding breaks and me in pain because I have a bad back and neck. It was misery. I would sometimes step away for a minute to cry and pull myself together to go back to war. THIS ONLY TOOK 5 MINUTES!!! I'm ready to cry tears of joy, you have no idea what a blessing this brush is!" penrodtlt
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A vented wet and dry brush(04 of11)
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You may have seen the viral Unbrush on TikTok recently, but if you haven't, know that this detangling brush is loved for its unique vented paddle that cuts down on styling time with a blow dryer. The flexible bristles also help to release tangles gently and you can get it in tons of different colors.

Promising Amazon reviews: "My daughter has super kinky hair, and it is very difficult brushing her hair. I was skeptical at first, because of how lightweight and cheap feeling this brush was, but it actually works! I dont think I will ever use anything else on her hair, so Im going to stockpile now lol." Chastity

"So, I had heard about the viral Unbrush for a while. It honestly seemed too good to be true. My daughter has 3C curly long hair that gets tangled easily and requires a detangling product to make brushing her hair a little easier, usually ends up taking a long time. I finally caved and decided I had to try this brush. I used it for the fist time today and not only did it do a great job detangling her hair, it hardly pulled out any of her hair! I'm shocked at how good the brush was, appears to cause less breakage and damage to her hair as well. If you had curly hair or a curly haired child, order this brush ASAP, you won't regret it!" Fernie
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An iconic old-school styling brush(05 of11)
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This classic vintage styling tool may have been used eras gone by to create those gorgeous Rita Hayworth-style coifs and iconic pin-curled tresses, but the Denman has remained popular even to this day. The brush face features seven rows of round-ended nylon pins that won't drag or catch hair and can be used wet or dry for detangling, blow-drying, styling, defining curls and smoothing the hair. It works for all hair types, especially naturally tight curls, is easy to clean, and has been a beloved item in my own vanity drawer for over a decade.

Promising Amazon review: "I have thick curly hair that is always a tangled matted mess. I was doubtful this brush would go through my hair. I was pleasantly amazed this brush not only went through my hair, but on the first pass. I have never found a brush to do that. I was wondering what all the hype was about, but after using it for the first time, I now understand the hype, and it is well deserved. Well worth the price as well. I would say if you just want a regular hair brush, thin hair, straight hair, I am not sure if this hair brush would be needed or necessary. But if you have thick, curly or snarly hair it is definitely worth trying and spending the money. I also bought the detangler brush and that went through my hair, but it took a couple of passes but would highly recommend as well." humming
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A curl-defining styling brush(06 of11)
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Made by Pattern, a Black hair care brand created by Tracee Ellis Ross, this shower and styling brush is designed for adding sleek definition and creating perfectly clumped curls that are never stringy, especially among tight-textured hair types 3A and above. It also comes in a travel size so you can have beautiful curls on the go.

Promising Amazon reviews: "The bristles are firm and hard which is excellent for any hair type, but especially curly thick hair, however it also makes it a bit difficult to clean. I have really thick curly hair so this brush is amazing for helping me define my curls and makes untangling easy. Great product." Bernice Polanco

"I purchased this brush about a month ago and today was the first time I used it! I loved this detangle brush I used it in the shower. I have naturally thick kinky coily hair and it's about 8 inches long when blown out. I do manually detangle with a rat tooth comb and wide tooth comb and some kind of moisture or detangle product before washing it. Once I am able to pass the wide tooth comb throughout my hair I take my shower. Today, while washing my hair I noticed how much better and gentle the pattern brush moved through my wet hair than the wide tooth comb. I swear the brush passed through my wet hair like butter! I love it and it's a game changer!" Dina Kendall
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A wide-tooth comb designed for tight textures(07 of11)
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Also from Pattern comes this wide-toothed comb that's been specifically designed to section and detangle tight coils and curls while also being delicate on strands. And if you want to use it dry, this comb can help add volume when fluffing out hair.

Promising Amazon reviews: "I have never, ever, ever, ever, ever had a comb that could actually comb through my natural hair without ripping it out, or without me having to first divide it into micro-sections. (I still suggest you moisturize and section your hair for best results, but you probably dont have to EVERY time) But seriously, this comb is worth the money. And Im not even a compensated spokesperson. I just want yall to know that even though this might look like other combs, this one truly delivers." Gail Howard Finney

"I only found this product because I scrolled through every beauty product featured on Prime Day. My hair has grown so much longer with all of these protective styles, so it was time to upgrade from my Conair, wide tooth comb. This really fits the bill. I was in the market for a comb I could use on my 4c hair when dry and this glides through the strands so easily. Best comb ever. Thank you!!" WANT ADS
(credit:Amazon)
A boar bristle paddle brush(08 of11)
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Boar bristle brushes are great for redistributing oil from the scalp down the strands to add shine and softness back into hair. In addition to boar bristles, this paddle brush has nylon ball-tipped bristles to help penetrate and detangle thick hair.

Promising Amazon review: "Are you a biracial sister? Do you have naturally curly/kinky hair? Well look no further, your search ends here. This combination style brush, makes it easy to brush through dry or wet hair. I started looking for a better brush because my old brush was just pulling my hair out in clumps and not actually combing anything. This brush cuts through the mess with minimal loss and pain. Purchase it now, you can thank me later." Joy Joy
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The well-known Wet Brush(09 of11)
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You're most likely already familiar with the Wet Brush, a simple and affordable classic that's made with brand-specific flexible bristles to painlessly glide through hair, wet or dry. Grab the Wet Brush in 22 colors and prints.

Promising Amazon reviews: "This works great. I have thick very curly kinky hair and it does right through it when wet." Mouse

"I have very thick 4c kinky hair. I've been searching for a good brush forever and this does it all. It's now the only brush I use when detangling. The rest sit in a closet or have been given away.
I bought two more for travel. I usually detangle with this and a spray bottle before washing my hair. Then I brush it again after before styling. This thing makes it a breeze. Wash day has been cut down to 2 hrs because of it." Amazon customer
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A gentle detangling brush with flexible head(10 of11)
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Made from a renewable straw material, this brush features a ventilated and flexible brush head and bristles that moves through hair without tugging. This wet and dry brush is suitable for all hair types and even hair extensions.

Promising Amazon reviews: "I have very thin fine hair that is curly. This brush brushes through it with ease when it's wet and with ease when it's dry. Most insanely, it separates my curls and my hair doesn't look frizzy when I use it. That's craziness! I recommend this item, I've got to get a couple more!" Tumshie

"Not sponsored: Im in awe. Ive been seeing people rave about the Unbrush on TikTok and was looking for a cheaper alternative. Ive had unmanageable curly hair for all my life; LOT of hair and its finer than thread! So it gets tangled like no tomorrow. I havent been able to untangle the back of my head for MONTHS because it takes more than an hour in the shower WITH products just to get the top layer untangled. If you know the struggle, you know the tears, frustration, hair ripping, brush smacking, so on, lol.
I tried the brush on dry, day-three-hair out of curiosity, and it went through beautifully! Now Its not a miracle worker, I had to go through the worst sections multiple times. But it took maybe 10 minutes? Which is insane for me! Ive never been able to comb through my hair dry! And there was no horrible ripping sound either!
I lost very minimal hair in the process. Cant wait to see this things magic with some conditioner!!
Honestly, might vote it better than the Unbrush simply because of its shape. Its curved, and the spiral allows the brush to have a little give. It shapes around your head and feels heavenly! Like those As Seen on TV head scratchers!" Egg
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A gentle detangling brush for kids(11 of11)
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Made just for kid's tender scalps, this detangling brush by Frida Baby has an integrated brush head with both flexible and stiff comb-like bristles. It also comes with a sliding cover and an ergonomic handle.

Promising Amazon reviews: "I cannot say enough good things about this brush! My daughter has very curly hair and always ends up in a rats nest. We traveled for 10 hours in the car and when we arrived to our location I tried this brush for the first time and it took two brushes to get all her knots out and no tears!! This brush constantly amazes me and I don't know how more moms don't talk about this brush." emily wylie

"I've been struggling to find a brush that works for my curly haired four-year old girl with long hair. This brush gets out everyyyything with ease. No more crying! I'm so happy we found this! I might even buy a second one as a backup just in case they ever discontinue it haha." Jessica
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