The 5 Best Shampoos for Thinning Hair for Men 2025

Great question, because there are really three paths that can be taken. One is DHT blocking, or actually trying to stop hair loss. One is hair growth. The other is volumizing, or attempting to make hair appear thicker.

DHT Blocking is an attempt to stop hair loss at the source. Most male-pattern baldness comes down to how your body interacts with DHT, a hormone that does a lot in male development, later in life. Certain ingredients—saw palmetto, rosemary oil, ketoconazole—show efficacy in blocking DHT, but the real DHT blocker is a medication called finasteride, which used to be known by the brand name Propecia. If you’re seriously balding, DHT is probably the cause, and you should see a dermatologist to get a real prescription.

Hair Growth is just what it sounds like. The prescription route is minoxidil, which you probably know as Rogaine. In the world of over-the-counter fixes, ingredients like caffeine, rosemary oil, and tea tree oil are shown to stimulate growth. But again, see a dermatologist for the real shit.

Volumizing is where shampoos really shine. Proteins added to these shampoos work into your follicles and scalp, and they help your hairs to stand up straighter and appear fuller. Not to mention these shampoos maintain overall scalp health, which leads to better hair.