The 12 Best Hair Growth Serums of 2023

With guidance from five experts, we researched and rated the top-rated and best-selling products on the market today, evaluating formulation, ease of use, and value.

But even the most effective serum won’t work for everyone. For the product to work, there must be a viable hair follicle under the skin. “If hair follicles are beyond repair or ‘dead and gone,’ the best you can hope for is the stabilization of hair loss,” says hair restoration surgeon Dr. Alan J. Bauman. In that case, hair transplant surgery may be the only effective treatment.

Hair growth serums encourage a nutrient-rich environment on the scalp, activating blood vessels to carry oxygen to the follicle’s root and accelerating hair growth. They can also plump up the hair cuticle, giving the appearance of thicker hair. Tiffany Young, trichologist and CEO of ThinHairThick, recommends looking for products that contain castor, rosemary, pumpkin seed oil, or menthol, natural ingredients that can alleviate dandruff, fungal infections, dryness, and some forms of alopecia.

According to dermatologist Dr. Shari Sperling of Sperling Dermatology, hormones, stress, genetics, dieting, and illnesses are the most common causes of thinning, loss, patchiness, and other hair changes. Using a serum or medication—or some combination of both—is usually the most effective way to target the underlying cause and promote regrowth.

The factors behind hair loss are wide-ranging and here’s often not a single root cause of hair loss. “The hair loss I see in practice is primarily genetic, hormonal, and related to deficiency issues,” says trichologist Bridgette Hill. Essentially, she explains, hair is a “nonessential tissue,” so when your body is going through any kind of change—positive or negative—it can trigger hair loss as it works to return to homeostasis.

About 80 percent of men and 50 percent of women battle hair loss during their lifetime, and many of us invest a significant amount of time and money fighting it. Luckily, the best hair growth serum can be part of a scalp care routine that results in thicker hair and new hair growth—for some people.

Best Overall

Women’s Rogaine 5% Minoxidil Foam for Hair Thinning and Loss

4.8

Women's Rogaine 5% Minoxidil Foam for Hair Thinning and Loss
Women's Rogaine 5% Minoxidil Foam for Hair Thinning and Loss

Amazon

Why we like it: It’s an FDA-approved formula for women that contains minoxidil and soothing botanical extracts.

It’s worth noting: It doesn’t work for everyone, including those genetically predisposed to baldness. 

Probably the most familiar brand name in hair regrowth, Rogaine’s topical serum is actually a foam that dispenses drip-free to cause less mess. It’s applied once daily—unlike other serums that require twice daily application—and comes in a four-month supply. The active ingredient is minoxidil, which Dr. Bauman says is typically the “first-line of therapy” for thinning hair, thanks to its safety and efficacy track record. “Minoxidil has decades of use, over millions of patients worldwide, and is likely the most studied hair growth treatment on the planet,” Dr. Bauman says. “It has potential drawbacks, such as scalp irritation and excessive hair growth in unwanted areas.”

Price at time of publication: $51

Product Details

Size: Two 2.11 oz. cans

Active ingredients: Minoxidil 5%

Best Overall, Runner-Up

PURA D’OR Hair Thinning Therapy Energizing Scalp Serum Revitalizer (4oz)

PURA D'OR Hair Thinning Therapy Energizing Scalp Serum Revitalizer (4oz)
PURA D'OR Hair Thinning Therapy Energizing Scalp Serum Revitalizer (4oz)

Amazon

Why we like it: The brand’s clean formula is gentle and free of harsh chemicals.

It’s worth noting: The pump nozzle can be difficult to use. 

Pura D’Or is one of Amazon’s top-selling brands, and according to the reviews, this scalp serum is a secret weapon for fighting hair loss. The ingredient list includes a stellar lineup of plant extracts and oils, DHT blockers to encourage hair growth and reduce hair fall, and caffeine to stimulate the scalp. 

Price at time of publication: $25

Product Details

Size: 4 fl oz.

Active ingredients: Coffee extract, biotin, DHT blockers

Best Budget

The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair Density

4.7

The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair Density
The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair Density

Sephora

Why we like it: It’s affordable and effective.

It’s worth noting: Customer reviews are conflicting, with some seeing incredible growth and others not noticing much difference.

If you are looking for significant results but are on a budget, this under $20 product is worth a try. Dr. Shari Sperling says it increases hair density and fullness using three main ingredients: Procapil for increased blood flow, Baicapil for denser hair, and Redensyl, which, as the brand explains, “targets stem cells and human fibroblasts from the derma papilla to improve hair density.”

Price at time of publication: $22

Product Details

Size: 1 fl oz.

Active ingredients: Redensyl, Procapil, Baicapil

Best for Thinning Hair

Vegamour GRO Hair Serum

Vegamour GRO Hair Serum
Vegamour GRO Hair Serum

Sephora

Why we like it: It’s a vegan, plant-based formula that is free of toxic chemicals and carcinogens. 

It’s worth noting: The 1-ounce bottle may not be enough for 30 days of use.

Many people experience a gradual thinning of their hair as they age. If that describes you, Sperling recommends Gro Hair Serum from Vegamour. “Various clinical studies have found this serum can help increase the appearance of hair density while reducing signs of shedding for thicker, fuller hair,” she says. Those concerned with adding additional chemicals to their scalp can rest assured that this cruelty-free, vegan formula doesn’t contain toxins or known carcinogenic ingredients.

In studies conducted by the brand, the use of Vegamour produced a 52% improvement in the appearance of hair density and a 76% reduction in signs of shedding after four months. The product includes phyto-actives—chemical compounds derived from mung bean, curcumin, and other plant matter.

Price at time of publication: $58

Product Details

Size: 1 fl oz.

Active ingredients: Caffeine, Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Callus Conditioned Media

Best for Shedding

OPO Watercress Seed Oil

OPO Watercress Seed Oil
OPO Watercress Seed Oil

Amazon

Why we like it: Organic scalp treatment doubles as a moisturizer for the rest of your skin. 

It’s worth noting: It might make your hair look (and feel) oily.

While this organic oil from OPO is not technically a hair growth serum, studies have shown that watercress oil can lessen the secretion of hormones that induce hair loss, making it a perfect option for those battling shedding. Plus, watercress seed oil—also known as arugula oil—can improve scalp health, which is the first step in increasing hair density and thickness. With a dropper for easy application, the oil can be applied directly to your scalp and used as an all-over body moisturizer. 

The OPO watercress seed oil comes with an easy applicator, and claims to improve scalp problems to create smooth, stronger hair as well. One benefit of choosing an oil like this is it can double as a skin moisturizer for your scalp, and other areas, making it a more versatile choice.

Price at time of publication: $27

Product Details

Size: 6.75 fl oz.

Active ingredients: 100% Pure Watercress Seed Oil

Best Plant-Based

Nutrafol Growth Activator

Nutrafol Growth Activator
Nutrafol Growth Activator

Nutrafol

Why we like it: According to Dr. Bauman, it’s safe and effective. 

It’s worth noting: It takes a while to absorb into the scalp and can make hair look greasy.

Dr. Bauman recommends Growth Activator—and the brand’s other scalp treatment products—to rebalance the scalp’s microbiome, a process that is similar to maintaining gut health. “The serum uses plant exosomes…from the ancient adaptogenic herb known as Ashwagandha,” he explains. “These are tiny bubbles of biochemical messages organisms use for cell-to-cell communication to activate hair growth.” 

Price at time of publication: $69

Product Details

Size: 1.7 fl oz.

Active ingredients: Curcuma longa root extract, ginseng root extract, niacinamide, zinc chloride

Best for Black Hair

Kiehl’s Magic Elixir Scalp and Hair Oil Treatment

Kiehl's Magic Elixir Scalp and Hair Oil Treatment
Kiehl's Magic Elixir Scalp and Hair Oil Treatment

Kiehl’s

Why we like it: It’s a 2-in-1 scalp and hair treatment.

It’s worth noting: It’s not a leave-in product, so you’ll have to rinse it.

Black hair is susceptible to telogen effluvium and other forms of alopecia. As trichologist, Tiffany Young notes, “many of the popular protective styles that Black people use—think braids, twists and other styles that apply tension on the roots—can leave hair vulnerable to traction alopecia.” The Kiehl’s Magic Elixir contains castor, avocado, safflower, and rosemary leaf oil, which help moisturize kinky, curly, or coiled hair and aid in regrowth.

The formula doesn’t include unwanted additives like fragrances, sulfates, or synthetics.

Price at time of publication: $45

Product Details

Size: 4.2 fl oz.

Active ingredients: Avocado oil, safflower seed oil, rosmarinus officinalis leaf oil

Best for Thickening

Hair Thickness Maximizer Organic Saw Palmetto Oil Serum

Hair Thickness Maximizer Organic Saw Palmetto Oil Serum
Hair Thickness Maximizer Organic Saw Palmetto Oil Serum

Amazon

Why we like it: Studies have proven it significantly improves hair regrowth and thickness.

It’s worth noting: It takes time and patience.

Saw palmetto is a botanical extract that has become popular for hair regrowth, especially for those with Alopecia. A 2020 study revealed that it improves hair quality by 60%, including a 27% improvement in total hair count, improved hair density for over 83% of users, and stabilized disease progression by 52%. While some products promise immediate results, this is more of a “slow and steady wins the race” situation—you’ll notice regrowth begins after about a month of use.

Price at time of publication: $16

Product Details

Size: 1 fl oz.

Ingredients: Saw palmetto, Rosemary Essential Oil, Peppermint Essential Oil

Best for Men

Rogaine Extra Strength 5% Minoxidil Solution

4.8

Rogaine Extra Strength 5% Minoxidil Solution
Rogaine Extra Strength 5% Minoxidil Solution

Amazon

Why we like it: Contains FDA-approved minoxidil.

It’s worth noting: It requires 12 weeks of use, minimum.

It will take two to four months of consistent use before you can expect results, but you’ll be glad you persevered. The brand boasts that 9 of 10 men see increased hair growth from the 5% minoxidil solution, which costs less than $50 for a three-month supply. Unlike hair thickening products that plump the hair from the outside, Rogaine’s topical solution reactivates hair follicles to stimulate regrowth. It’s also safe for use with hair color, which is good news for those who dye or chemically treat their hair.  

Price at time of publication: $51

Product Details

Size: 6 fl oz.

Active ingredients: Minoxidil 5% w/v

Best Leave-In

Shapiro MD Leave-In Daily Foamer

Shapiro MD Leave-In Daily Foamer
Shapiro MD Leave-In Daily Foamer

Amazon

Why we like it: You can leave it and forget it without any oil, residue, or mess.

It’s worth noting: The pump is prone to leaking. 

This foam blend is an excellent alternative if serums and oils make your hair look too greasy. Active ingredients include green tea extract, caffeine, saw palmetto berry, and a few proprietary ingredients that the brand claims to repel environmental stressors and the hormone Dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which has been linked to hair loss. It does not contain minoxidil, which can cause irritation if you have a sensitive scalp.

Price at time of publication: $20

Product Details 

Size: 1.69 fl oz.

Active ingredients: Green tea extract, saw palmetto berry, caffeine

Best for Postmenopausal Hair Loss

Hers Topical Finasteride & Minoxidil Hair Growth Spray

Hers Topical Finasteride & Minoxidil Hair Growth Spray
Hers Topical Finasteride & Minoxidil Hair Growth Spray

For Hers

Why we like it: Contains finasteride and minoxidil, two of the most effective hair growth topicals

It’s worth noting: It’s a prescription product, so there’s a required consultation with a healthcare provider before you can purchase the product.

Technically it’s not a serum, but this Hers prescription-strength hair growth spray packs a one-two punch of two FDA-approved hair loss treatments. Finasteride slows hair fallout, while minoxidil promotes new growth, making it an excellent option for women battling postmenopausal hair loss or female pattern baldness. Since it’s applied as a fine mist, it won’t weigh hair down.  Although this product is a safe choice for women who have already gone through menopause, premenopausal women and pregnant women should not take it, because some research suggests finasteride may cause irregular periods or headaches in younger women.

Product Details 

Size: 1.69 fl oz.

Active ingredients: 0.3% finasteride, 6% minoxidil

Best Splurge

Dr. Barbara Sturm Anti- Hair Fall Scalp Serum

Dr. Barbara Sturm Anti- Hair Fall Scalp Serum
Dr. Barbara Sturm Anti- Hair Fall Scalp Serum

Amazon

Why we like it: It’s 100% vegan and free of silicone and parabens.

It’s worth noting: It’s meant to be used with the brand’s anti-hair fall shampoo, which is also pricey.

Yes, this lightweight leave-in is expensive, but it comes from one of Hollywood’s favorite skincare specialists. It’s packed with camellia and larch extracts to nourish hair follicles, vitamin B to strengthen hair, and hyaluronic acid for an infusion of moisture. Plus, it protects hair and scalp from heat, pollutants, and UV rays.

Price at time of publication: $100

Product Details

Size: 50ml

Active ingredients: Glycerine, panthenol, purslane extract, cationic hyaluronic acid, sunflower seed sprout extract, tara extract, camellia extract, European larch extract