It can feel scary to see your hair fall out or your hairline recede, hence your search for the best hair growth serums. You’re probably familiar with brands like Regaine, which has an active ingredient known as minoxidil. Minoxidil (which helps to prevent the miniaturisation of hair follicles) and finasteride (which helps to block DHT, an ingredient that causes hair loss) are presently the gold standards when it comes to hair loss, according to Dr. Macrene Alexiades, a New York City board-certified dermatologist. As is a treatment called PRP or “platelet-rich plasmas” injections where your blood is taken, spun in a centrifuge to obtain the plasma, and then injected back into the scalp.
“I've obtained the best results for hair growth in my patients by implementing a comprehensive plan of oral supplementation, topical prescriptions including minoxidil and finasteride, and injections with platelet-rich plasma [or PRP] for ideal outcomes,” explains Alexiades. “As for serums, outside of topical minoxidil, finasteride or herbal equivalents such as saw palmetto, there are several serums where the jury is still out!” Below, she shares the best serums with growth-stimulating ingredients that might help stop hair thinning and even aid in regrowth.
The Best Hair Growth Serums, According to GQ
- Best Hair Growth Serum Overall: Hims, £29
- Best Hair Growth Serum with Minoxidil: Regaine,
£68£48.96 - Best Hair Growth Serum for Curly Hair: Briogeo Destined for Density, £48
- Best Hair Growth Serum for Dry Hair: The Nue Co. Supa Thick Scalp Serum, £40
- Best Hair Growth Serum for Graying Hair: Living Proof Scalp Care Density Serum, £54
Best Hair Growth Serum Overall: Hims
Hims
Rx Hair Loss Spray + Ketoconazole + Biotin
This serum takes home the gold, thanks to its combination of clinically-backed ingredients finasteride and minoxidil. It pairs these ingredients with biotin and ketoconazole, which are both great at coating the hair follicle to give it a thicker appearance. These ingredients will potentially improve the hair’s thickness and strength over time to improve the health of existing strands.
One of the annoying things about minoxidil and finasteride is that you have to use them daily, otherwise the benefits cease. So while this product is intended for daily use, the brand makes it easy to order online and to set it up where you get a new one each month in the mail without having to put in the legwork of getting to the store. It’s also super fast-drying and offers up a fresh eucalyptus scent so that you can think of using it as a mini trip to the spa to get that healthy hair you’ve been dreaming of.
Best Hair Growth Serum with Minoxidil: Rogaine
This is probably the most recognisable brand for hair loss, and that’s because of the popularity of the brand's oral medications. That said, the serum is incredibly cost-effective because each order comes with a six-month supply of serum-style dropper bottles.
It contains minoxidil, which works to stimulate follicle hair growth. While this is the only active ingredient, it has been clinically proven to be one of the most important. It also contains alcohol, which can be drying – especially if your scalp is experiencing any irritation.
Best Hair Growth Serum for Curly Hair: Briogeo Destined for Density
Often, curly hair types tend to be drier because the hair strand is like a spiral staircase rather than a straight shoot for the oil to travel down. Because of this hair can break and this breakage can lead to it looking sparser than it should When that happens, you'll want to stimulate the follicles to help hair grow. The formula also contains biotin, which naturally supports elasticity and strength while coating each strand to provide a thicker overall look. The copper peptides in the formula work to promote the production of collagen, which will definitely help the hair grow stronger over time. The caffeine and green coffee oil in the formula work hand-in-hand to stimulate the scalp, leaving each strand healthier overall.
This formula contains redensyl, which has been found to be effective in hair regrowth in clinical studies. While supporting new growth, it has also been found to protect existing hair follicles. In addition to this ingredient, the serum contains rosemary, which is great for stimulating blood flow. Blood flow is also a key component when it comes to supporting new hair growth.
