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10 Best Hair Growth Serums, Recommended by Dermatologists & Tested by Us

 

Say hello to your best hair ever.

There are many causes for hair loss—pregnancy, medication, stress, tight styling, or just plain genetics, to name a few. The best hair growth serums are an easy topical to start with treating hair thinning. These hair growth products help create an optimal scalp environment, promote hair growth, decrease shedding, and strengthen individual strands. Of course, not all formulations are made equally, and not all serums effectively address scalp health adequately. We spoke to dermatologists, trichologists, and hair stylists to find the best serums for stronger, healthier hair from root to tip. Vegamour and Rogaine were top picks among experts and our testers, but we found other options to incorporate into your routine as well, like the new Cécred drops that are viral on TikTok.

1. Best Hair Growth Serum for Thinning Hair: Vegamour GRO Hair Serum for Thinning Hair

 

Key Ingredients: Turmeric, caffeine, red clover, mung bean blend
Dosage: Apply one full dropper to scalp daily
Size: 1 oz.
Cruelty-Free: Yes

What we like: It leaves hair feeling stronger and more resilient
What could be improved: Added fragrance may irritate especially sensitive scalps

This serum uses plant-based active ingredients to reduce hair shedding and fallout. Geeta Yadav, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Facet Dermatology, points to DHT-blocking clover extract, regenerative glycoproteins, and strengthening peptides as star ingredients, though caffeine and turmeric are also standouts, helping to stimulate the scalp and increase the appearance of hair density.

Glamour contributor Brigitt Earley put this one to the test and has a few tips. “This scalp serum is very runny, so you have to be careful during application—I’ve definitely had it trickle down my face a time or two. But I love that you use it with dry hair, so you can be more consistent. It doesn’t leave strands at all oily, so don’t worry about your fresh blowout. Instead, it sinks right into the scalp for a really refreshing and hydrating effect that people with a dry scalp like mine will find nice and soothing—especially if you’re prone to itchiness.”

Glamour contributor Ariel Wodarcyk also noticed a pleasant tingling sensation after use, in addition to longer, fuller baby hairs that started to sprout about one month in.

2. Best Hair Growth Serum for Curly/Coily Hair: Cécred Restoring Hair & Edge Drops

Key Ingredients: Biotin, ginger extract, fermented rice powder, Biopeptide-5, rose extract, bioactive keratin ferment
Dosage: Apply one full dropper to scalp daily
Size: 1.7 oz.
Cruelty-Free: N/A

These lightweight drops have been making the rounds all over TikTok for improving hairline density and thickening edges. Glamour editorial assistant Monique Wilson counts herself as a fan.

“I’ve been using the Cécred Restoring Hair Drops every day for about three weeks,” she says. “I apply about half a dropper to each side of my hairline and massage into my scalp. Typically, I use my fingers to massage, but alternatively, I use the Divi Scalp Scrubber for an extra scrub. It’s really easy to use—not only because of the dropper applicator, but I also appreciate the neutral smell. The drops claim to show results in 16 weeks, but already, I’ve received comments that my hairline looks thicker and darker, which I attribute to Biopeptide-5 (a proprietary blend of five-growth-factor peptides known to visibly improve hair density). I will flag that the product is water-based, not an oil serum, so when applying, make sure to massage in quickly.”

3. Best Hair Growth Serum for Bald Spots: Rogaine 5% Minoxidil Foam

Key Ingredients: Minoxidil 5%
Dosage: Half a capful once daily
Size: 2.11 oz.
Cruelty-Free: No

What we like: Evidence-based claims; effective
What could be improved: Packaging is fairly lackluster

All our experts agree: Minoxidil is the gold standard when it comes to hair growth. In fact, it’s the only ingredient approved by the FDA to do so. But don’t just take their word for it; studies also show that this particular formula, which features a 5% concentration of the star ingredient, can boost hair growth. The unscented formula is easy to apply, and a single box contains a two-month supply. While not the chicest option, this cinched the top spot for one simple reason: It simply works. And at the end of the day, there’s nothing more compelling than that.

Karen Chang, a senior finance director at Condé Nast who has been dealing with hair thinning for years, is one of our testers. She says it feels like hairspray, so just be aware that it can leave your hair feeling a little sticky. She’s only been testing for a month, so we’ll follow up with her full review in our next refresh.

4. Best Hair Growth Serum for Scalp: Nutrafol Hair Serum

Key Ingredients: Ashwagandha Exosomes, Irish moss peptides, pea sprout extract
Dosage: One full dropper
Size: 1 oz.
Cruelty-Free: No

What we like: Lightweight; improves fullness on fine hair
What could be improved: Watery texture takes several minutes to dry down

“Formulated with Ashwagandha Exosomes, this serum helps reduce scalp inflammation and stimulates hair follicles, which can support stronger, fuller hair,” says Pooja Rambhia, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Union Derm, who’s a major fan of this pick. Dendy Engelman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in NYC, is also a huge fan and recommends using the Nutrafol hair vitamin to support every stage of the growth cycle.

“I really love the Nutrafol drops, but I did find that they take a second to dry, which is funny because they feel like the exact consistency of water. That said, once dry, they don’t leave behind any residue or semblance of oiliness. I applied about three quarters of a dropper to spots at my temples, particularly on my part and the very back top of my head, and then rubbed it in. Since they take a second to dry, I found that the best time to apply them was at night right before bed,” says Glamour contributor Brittany Loggins.

5. Best Hair Growth Serum for Longer Hair: K18 Molecular Repair Hair Oil

Key Ingredients: K18 peptide, hemisqualane, squalane, avocado oil
Dosage: Apply to damp or dry hair as preferred, starting with one to three drops
Size: 1 oz.
Cruelty-Free: Yes

What we like: Offers additional heat protection and aesthetic improvements to the hair
What could be improved: Oil formula isn’t ideal for all scalp types, particularly oily scalps

K18 Molecular Repair Hair Oil works on two levels of the hair fiber to fight frizz, strengthen strands, and repair damage, all of which help promote a healthy environment for hair growth. On the surface, natural oils like avocado and sunflower oils and squalane nourish the hair. Teresa Song, MD, a board-certified dermatologist, explains that the brand’s proprietary K18 peptide addresses deeper level damage within the innermost layer of the hair fiber. According to Jodi LoGerfo, MD, a doctor of nursing practice and family nurse practitioner certified in family medicine and dermatology, this helps hair withstand the everyday assaults we put it through, making strands more resilient and stronger. It also enhances shine and color vibrancy, and provides heat protection up to 450°F.

“I’ve noticed my strands are much softer and less prone to breakage after using this K18 hair oil for about two month consistently,” says Glamour senior commerce editor Jenifer Calle, who styles her hair for work almost every other day. “My hair is going through a lot of heat-styling, but it’s actually the healthiest it’s ever been, and I’ve noticed a healthy inch of growth in a little over a month.”

6. Best Hair Growth Serum for Oily Scalp: Kérastase Initialiste Scalp & Hair Serum

Key Ingredients: Ceramides, green tea extract, SP94
Dosage: Apply 2 pipettes for fine hair or 4 pipettes for normal to thick hair, 3 times a week
Size: 2.2 oz.
Cruelty-Free: No

What we like: Thickens and strengthens fine, weaker strands
What could be improved: We’d love a cruelty-free option

Dr. Song suggests this serum for people with fine hair and oily scalps, thanks to its lightweight texture and strand-strengthening formula. “I like that it has ceramides to help hydrate and moisturize hair,” says Dr. LoGerfo. “It also contains green tea as an antioxidant and a UV filter to protect hair against sun damage.” Meanwhile, Sanda Petrut, a stylist at Maxine Salon in Chicago, says the trifecta of ingredients is great for those with weaker hairlines looking to thicken fine hair, particularly around the face.

“Now that I’m styling my hair more often, I’m noticing some hair breakage at the top of my hair where I tend to pull it the most. This serum keeps that area hydrated and adds some shine to my strands. I’ve also noticed that my hair normally gets greasy after a day, but when I started using this Kérastase hair serum, my scalp stayed fresh for longer,” says Glamour’s Calle.

7. Best Hair Growth Serum for Hairline: Act + Acre Cold Pressed Stem Cell Scalp Serum

Key Ingredients: Apple stem cells, H2-Grow Complex, bamboo-and-pea-sprout blend, hyaluronic acid
Dosage: 2 to 3 pipettes
Size: 2.2 oz.
Cruelty-Free: No

What we like: Visibly combats hair thinning; makes hair appear fuller; clinically tested on ages 18 to 59
What could be improved: Texture is slightly sticky but dries down fast with no residue

“I first heard about this pressed stem cell serum when it launched a few years ago, and I’ll be honest, it kind of seemed a little too good to be true,” shares Glamour commerce writer Alanna Martine Kilkeary. “It has a lot of lofty claims, so I was apprehensive about how well it could actually work.” Those claims include clinical trials with 90% of participants showing increased hair growth in six weeks, 100% expressing increased hair thickness, and 100% expressing stronger, healthier hair. Luckily, Kilkeary’s expectations did not fall short.

“I tried it for the first time about two years ago when I was experiencing hair thinning around the crown of my head, and applied it at night every day for a few months,” she says. “After that trial, I instantly saw hair growing in the applied area, and now I can’t go a night without it. It’s made such a huge difference in my hair health, and the application is easy to incorporate into any hair care routine, too, which experts say is very important.”

“Consistency is key when using scalp serums, and they work best when paired with other healthy hair practices like gentle washing,” adds Dr. Rambhia.

8. Best Hair Growth Serum for Shedding Hair: The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair Density

 

Key Ingredients: Redensyl, procapil, baicapil
Dosage: Apply a few drops to clean scalp daily
Size: 2 oz.
Cruelty-Free: Yes

What we like: Reasonable price makes it far more accessible than other options
What could be improved: Can feel slightly sticky

Dr. Yadav is a fan of this affordable option, specifically calling out the many protein-building amino acids and three lab-made complexes on the ingredient list. Those complexes—procapil, redensyl, and baicapil—all work to promote thicker, stronger hair by targeting stem cells and human fibroblasts, and increasing blood flow in the scalp, Dr. Song explains. The concentrated formula also features caffeine to improve hair density and uses a lightweight, emollient base for efficient scalp penetration.

“As someone with a very flat hair type myself, I was excited to give this peptide serum a whirl to see if it added bounce and thickness,” says Glamour’s Kilkeary. “The good news: My hair actually did look thicker post-application, so much so that I put on a headband to keep it from falling toward my face. This serum also did wonders for my typically knotty hair during the winter and hydrated my roots even after just one application and blow-dry. I’ll definitely continue to use this one throughout the colder months to keep my hair looking resilient, strong, and velvety.”

9. Best Hair Growth Serum for Baby Hairs: Harklinikken Hair Gain Extract

Key Ingredients: Marigold, burdock root, fatty acids
Dosage: One full dropper
Size: 1 oz.
Cruelty-Free: No

What we like: Each formula is custom-blended to suit your hair care concerns
What could be improved: Expensive; can only be purchased online or at a Harklinikken hair clinic

“I recently had the pleasure of visiting the Harklinikken New York Clinic, where I met with an expert to receive an in-depth scalp analysis and talk through some of my hair and scalp concerns,” says Wodarcyk. “The personal approach instantly put me at ease; I explained that I deal with a very dry, flaky scalp in the fall and winter; some greasiness at the roots; and dry, tangle-prone ends. Using that information, my expert sent me home with a trio of products: the Balancing Shampoo, the Daily Conditioner, and a custom-blended Hair Gain Extract. After using the extract alone and in tandem with the other products for a little over a month, I’ve noticed a surge of new baby hairs at my scalp and no more flakes. In fact, it’s the best condition my dry, sensitive scalp has ever been in. My hair also appears less greasy, even when I’m overdue for a wash—it’s like this serum perfectly balanced my scalp’s microbiome.”

If you’re unable to visit one of the three US-based clinics (located in New York City, Los Angeles, and Tampa), the website offers a free assessment that will match you with a custom-blended extract of your own.

10. Best Drugstore Hair Growth Serum: Mielle Rosemary Mint Scalp & Hair Strengthening Oil

Key Ingredients: Biotin, rosemary leaf oil, mint oil
Dosage: Apply a small amount to scalp daily
Size: 2 oz.
Cruelty-Free: Yes

What we like: Formula features essential oils clinically proven to support hair growth
What could be improved: Might be too moisturizing or heavy for oilier scalps and thinner hair

The TikTok-famous Rosemary Mint Scalp & Hair Strengthening Oil features more than 30 essential oils and nutrients, several of which are clinically proven to support hair growth, Dr. Song says. The gentle oil formula is ideal for more sensitive, dry scalps that might benefit from additional hydration and nourishment. The rosemary oil is infused with biotin, which is a vitamin linked to hair growth (though clinical research has been inconclusive). The formula works on two fronts to create an optimal environment for hair growth while actively strengthening existing hair to decrease hair loss.

Your hair growth serum questions, answered

What ingredients should I look for in a hair growth serum?

When looking for hair growth serums, it’s important to look for products containing ingredients that have scientific evidence in promoting hair growth. “Minoxidil is FDA-approved to promote hair growth by increasing blood flow to the scalp, and essential oils like rosemary and peppermint oil have been shown in clinical studies to stimulate hair growth comparable to low-concentration minoxidil,” Dr. Song says.

Meanwhile, Dr. Yadav suggests looking for ingredients that support the growth of healthy hair by fostering a healthy environment for the hair follicles, such as Aminexil, caffeine, and ceramides.

She also points to rosemary oil, clover extract, and saw palmetto extract, which help block DHT, a hormone connected to hair loss—though she notes the evidence here isn’t as robust as others. Dr. LoGerfo recommends ingredients that increase hair density and volume like biotin, amino acids, omega-3 fatty acids, niacinamide, peptides, keratin, and hyaluronic acid.

How do I know if a hair growth serum is “working”?

Remember that it takes time and commitment to determine if any product is working, especially a hair growth product. Because the rate at which hair grows is around half an inch per month, it can be difficult to measure the effectiveness of a hair growth topical in fewer than three months. If you’re consistent, you should start to see new growth around that time period—according to Dr. Yadav, you should see hairs sprouting up along the hairline or at the top of the scalp. Depending on the type of hair serum, by three months you can also expect decreased shedding, lengthening of once-shorter baby hairs, and stronger, shinier hair strands.

Should I apply hair growth serums to wet or dry hair?

While many of the serums on this list can be applied to dry hair, you should aim to apply them while your hair is damp. “This allows the serum to penetrate the hair shaft and the scalp a bit more effectively, which always helps maximize any results,” says Kerry E. Yates, a trichologist and founder of Colour Collective.