Derms Agree: These Hair Products Amp Up The Volume

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Hair thinning can be caused by a number of things: hormones, stress, and genes. Your best bet to address the root cause of your shedding mane is to consult with a dermatologist. But if you're looking for a product that can help thicken the appearance of your strands, we recommend trying out a hair thinning shampoo.

"If your hair is thinning at all or you just have extremely fine hair, it’s always a good time to start with a hair thinning shampoo," says Katelyn Ellsworth, stylist and founder of The Roslyn salon in San Diego. "It’s the first line of defense to actually attack the problem and cleanse the scalp thoroughly."

Peep a few of the best shampoos for thinning hair recommended by dermatologists and stylists below:

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No matter your hair type or the products you use for your hair, shampoo is the one thing everyone uses, so it's important to get familiar with the best shampoos for hair loss if thinning is a concern of yours. That's why we spent the past year testing dozens of top-reviewed hair growth shampoos.

We chose these shampoos based on recommendations from a vetted list of 13 hairstylists, chemists, and dermatologists and tested them out among ourselves. Then, we got to testing their picks. As we tested, we evaluated each formula based on a set of criteria, from the ingredients to what hair types it's made for and how it made our hair feel. Then, we narrowed down that list to the 17 options that actually met our standards. Keep reading to shop the best shampoos for hair thinning that actually work. per experts and Women's Health testers.

Read more: Everything You Need To Know About Hair Loss

Not Your Mother’s Curl Talk Shampoo

Gaby Longsworth, founder of CurlPlanet, a platform that provides advice to those with curly hair, recommends this shampoo for curly hair because it's gentle and clarifying. She loves that it contains growth-enhancing ingredients like rice, keratin, and amino acids, and the price tag of $14 is just the cherry on top.

"Made for all curl types, this keratin shampoo cleanses and delivers a boost of moisture and hydration," says dermatologist Brendan Camp, MD. Testers love the smell of this shampoo and note that it leaves their curls defined the whole day. Some users say that it also reduces frizz and increases shine.

"It's great for my dry, fine, blonde curls," says one tester. "It's moisturizing but not too heavy and doesn't weigh my hair down."

Read more: Best Shampoos For Curly Hair

Shea Moisture Coconut Oil Shampoo

Several experts kept bringing up how great coconut oil can be for hair growth, and this shampoo puts the ingredient at the forefront. Longsworth notes that coils need something that's gentle and clarifying, and this shampoo offers just that.

"The ingredients are good—100 percent virgin coconut oil, shea butter, creamy coconut milk, and acacia senegal," says Ellsworth. "It contains no sulfates or silicones. It is a great product to hydrate the hair and leaves it with a beautiful shine." Many testers also say that while it moisturizes their hair, it doesn't leave it feeling heavy or limp.

"I’ve always had thin hair with a lot of shedding," says one tester. "I switched to this after getting a free sample at Sam’s Club and my hair has never been so healthy! I went from washing every day to once a week and my hair is thicker and way more easy to brush then ever before!"

Pura D'Or Gold Label Anti-Thinning Biotin Shampoo

"Most shampoos can't get you both volume and shiny-looking hair," says hairstylist Roxanne Beltran. However, this one does that and more, as it actually makes hair grow. Aside from biotin, this formula also includes pumpkin seed, black cumin seed oil, nettle, and other plant-based ingredients to increase volume and thicken the hair.

Testers can't get enough of how thick this makes their hair. Within just a few weeks, users noticed major results. Some also mention that the smell is so fresh, that it "instantly transports you to a spa whenever you use it."

One of our testers has only been using this shampoo for three weeks, but they say it has already made their hair feel thicker. "I use it everyday and I leave it on for two minutes while I wash my body," they say. "Plus, it smells so good that I look forward to using it."

Pureology Hydrate transparent Nourishing Shampoo

It's easy to oversaturate dry, thinning hair, and that's why hairstylist Justin Toves-Vincilione recommends Pureology's lightweight, silicone, and sulfate-free shampoo. Bonus: It has thousands of five-star ratings from happy customers.

Testers say this shampoo makes their hair more manageable. They also note that a little product goes a long way, making it a worthwhile investment for the price point. "This is specifically formulated to hydrate fine, color-treated hair," adds Ellsworth. "I also like that it's lightweight."

"This is my go-to everyday shampoo," says WH associate fashion and commerce editor Lily Wohlner. "First of all, it's so refreshing on the scalp with a signature aromatherapy blend (think eucalyptus, lavender, patchouli, and green tea). Second, it tames my frizzy, curly hair the second it touches my strands—the moisture it provides surprises me with every use."

Read more: Best Shampoos For Dry Hair

Briogeo Scalp Revival Shampoo

"The naturally-derived ingredients in this shampoo help to maintain a healthy scalp environment," says Toves-Vincilione, who adds that this shampoo is made with 95 percent natural ingredients. "Usually, achieving a healthy scalp environment is the first step to prevent thinning."

Some testers with oily hair saw noticeable improvements over time. Additionally, those with dandruff saw less flakinesses. Some say that since using this shampoo, they've had to wash their hair less often. "The focus of this product is your scalp, which I love," says Ellsworth. "It loosens buildup on your scalp, which is great for treating a dry, flaky, or oily scalp."

One of our testers only used this product twice before telling us it was one of the best products she's ever used (!!). "The amount of hair fall has already dropped by 1/4!!! I cried in the shower when I noticed the amount because I was so happy! I hope it continues to help and brings my hair slowly back to its normal state!"

Living Proof Full Shampoo

Dermatologist Brandon Kirsch, MD recommends Living Proof's Full Shampoo to any of his clients who have thinning hair and want the instant gratification of some volume.

"This is formulated to add fullness and volume," says Dr. Camp. "It's color-safe, sulfate and paraben-free, and safe for chemically-treated hair." Testers with oily hair say that this shampoo is especially good for cleansing while still leaving strands moisturized and full of volume.

"This shampoo is the first that I have tried that actually works on my fine, limp hair," says one of our testers, who adds that it gives them the perfect amount of volume. "It's not a miracle worker, but I definitely notice a difference. It's expensive but it works."

Pantene Silver Expressions Purple Shampoo

Dermatologist Marie Jihn, MD is a fan of Pantene's purple shampoo for grey hair. It's paraben and silicone-free, and is totally affordable at under $20. You'll love that it's infused with lotus flowers that'll make your hair smell divine.

Testers say this product allows them to embrace their grey hair, noting that it adds shine and brightness. Many of them like the way the shampoo eliminates brassy tones from the sun. They also love the smell and consistency.

"I've been getting tons of compliments about my hair since using this shampoo," says one of our testers. "It's no longer dingy grey, but bright and shiny."

Read more: Best Shampoos for Gray Hair

Oribe Shampoo For Magnificent Volume

Longing for glossy, healthy hair? Look no further than this strengthening, splurge-worthy formula that WH editors love. Celebrity hairstylist and salon owner Alex Brown says this formula will revitalize thinning hair thanks to its healing extracts and oils that include cypress, argan, and maracuja. "It visibly plumps strands and builds body for a fuller look right away," she says.

Many testers say that unlike other brands, this one is especially gentle on the scalp. Some also note that their hair feels fuller and thicker after a few uses. Plus, testers say that despite the price point, a little bit of product goes a long way.

"The ‘magnificent volume’ on the label does not lie," says our tester. "My hair felt way thicker immediately upon using this shampoo. It stays feeling thicker until the next wash—seven to 10 days later."

Amika 3D Volume Thickening Shampoo

Suitable for everyday use on all hair types, this Brown-approved formula cleanses the hair well without weighing it down, so this is what you'll want to choose if you like to wash your hair frequently. "It leaves each strand feeling more dense right away," says Brown.

Testers say that their hair had more shine and bounce after using this shampoo. Those with thinner hair believe it has made their hair thicker over time. Plus, testers love the smell and the way it reduces frizz.

"My hair looks so much nicer today after using the shampoo," says one of our testers. "Definitely looks fuller and fluffier. It also seems more manageable like it's not getting messed up as easily."

Ouai Fine Shampoo

"This shampoo is super cleansing and leaves the hair feeling stronger and full of life," says Brown. The formula is infused with all sorts of strengthening ingredients like biotin, keratin, and chia seed oil, adds Dr. Camp.

Testers with oily hair say that Ouai's shampoo allows them to go more days without oily hair, which translates to less buildup. They note that it leaves their hair feeling clean and soft, making it worth the buy. Those with fine hair also feel that it gives them more volume.

Although it's pricey, our tester says this shampoo is worth it. "I’ve tried so many different types of shampoo for fine, oily hair and nothing has worked for me until now," they say. "Absolutely love this shampoo! My hair looks and feels clean and smells great!"

Davines Energizing Shampoo

Hairstylist and salon owner Sal Misseri says that no matter what hair type they're working with, they love using Davines' Energizing Shampoo. The paraben-free formula has hundreds of five-star reviews by people who swear by it for treating hair loss.

In fact, many testers who deal with thinning hair mention that this shampoo helped make their mane appear fuller. They also share that their hair feels less dry and a lot softer after multiple uses. "I’ve only used this about five times and I already feel my hair is less dry and has a smoother finish," says one of our testers. "Plus, my scalp has less buildup."

Ranavat Regenerative Shampoo

Misseri touts ashwagandha as an ingredient that's great at supporting hair growth. Ranavat's ayurvedic shampoo contains just that along with tons more ayurvedic ingredients like lotus flower, amla, neem, and jasmine. And yes, all those ingredients will absolutely make your hair smell like a garden.

Testers believe the shampoo added softness and shine to their dry, brittle hair. Many people also note that they experienced less hair loss over time.

"This shampoo is such a beautiful addition to my haircare routine," writes one of our testers. 'I love that,shes in spite of being super gentle, it helps remove the oil from my strands and leaves them feeling so soft."

Olaplex No.4 Bond Maintenance Shampoo

Salon owner Rachel Shtifter is a big fan of Olaplex's No.4 Bond Maintenance Shampoo, and she's definitely not the only one. She's joined by 52,000 five-star reviewers, many of whom say this product made their hair grow both thicker and longer.

Testers say that after a few uses, they noticed improvements to their damaged hair. Some say their hair appeared to have more shine and less frizz. Many users also note that it's a great shampoo for those who frequently use heat tools or treatments.

"I have very fine thin dry hair, and this works great," writes one tester. "My hair feels so soft and smells good after using it. I’m very impressed with this product and highly recommended it!"

Oribe Signature Shampoo

"Oribe's shampoo smells so good that we at the salon even wear their perfume," says Shtifter. But, it's so much more than just a sweet-smelling hair product—she also recommends it to her clients who have sensitive scalps and are experiencing hair loss, saying the brand has the highest quality formulas and ingredients.

"Ingredients like watermelon, lychee, edelweiss flower, vegetable-derived humectants, and ginger root extract offer protection from oxidative stress while softening and strengthening hair from root to tip," adds Dr. Camp. Testers say that their hair feels extra soft after using this shampoo. Many note that it gives them a salon-like finish that's well worth the price.

Shea Moisture Intensive Hydration Shampoo

Many volumizing shampoos can strip hair of everything—including moisture—so your hair may feel fuller, but it's also left to be super dry and brittle. This affordable pick by Shea Moisture comes recommended by Shtifter, and it uses honey to keep strands silky smooth without the weight so you can have your volume and healthy hair, too.

"Honey, shea butter, and aloe leaf juice are featured in this hydrating, sulfate-free shampoo made to soften and revitalize your hair," says Dr. Camp. Testers rave about the quality of this shampoo, noting that the consistency and ingredients lead to improved results over time.

"This is the best shampoo ever because it leaves my hair soft and hydrated," says a tester of this shampoo. "I will continue to buy this product."

Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Scalp Care Regeniplex Shampoo

ICYDK, dandruff can lead to hair loss. If that's something you're dealing with, consider trying this tea tree oil-based shampoo. Generally speaking, tea tree oil can be drying and isn't ideal for moisturizing, says dermatologist Jennifer Baron, MD. She adds that it might be a better fir for someone who "has a lot of dandruff or really oily scalp."

Testers say that over time, this shampoo helped ease their itchy scalp. They also note that it has a pleasant fragrance and lathers well, which leaves their hair feeling super clean. Users also share that their hair feels thicker after a few weeks of using it.

"I’m so happy to have found this shampoo," says one user. "It is absolutely perfect for me. It actually makes my hair feel thicker, and I love the smell."

Read more: Best Dandruff Shampoos

Pattern Hydration Shampoo

This hydrating shampoo from Pattern moisturizes hair while giving it a thorough cleanse. It smells earthy yet fresh. Plus, it contains key ingredients such as coconut oil, avocado oil, olive oil, sweet almond oil, and mineral oil. It's pretty much the perfect blend of what your strands need to create the fullness and shine you're after.

This is a personal favorite of mine, and our testers love it too! In fact, testers with multiple curl patterns and textures agree that it leaves their hair feeling soft and healthy. Some also say that they've noticed less shedding and an easier experience during the styling process.

How our team chose the best shampoo for thinning hair

For the past few years, Women’s Health editors, including editorial assistant Sabrina Talbert and associate commerce editor Lily Wohlner have been researching the most popular and top-rated shampoos for thinning hair. Our team consulted 13 experts for the story and sought testers for the products to narrow down a list of the best products for a wide range of hair types and preferences.

What to look for in shampoos for thinning hair

If you've already read through the most recommended products above, you might have an idea (or a few) of which ones you'd like to invest in. But before you do, here are a few things worth considering:

Ingredients: Certain ingredients can go a long way for thinning hair, especially oils. "Things that can help the skin and follicle include tropical oils that can be anti-inflammatory like coconut oil and macadamia nut oil," says Dr. Baron. Ellsworth adds that rosemary oil, castor oil, vitamin B3, antioxidant rich nutrients, and biotin should also be on your list of ingredients to look for.

Price point: In some case, you can definitely find quality products at budget-friendly price points. However, it's not uncommon that some of the best of the best are slightly more expensive "Sourcing is where the money is spent," says Ellsworth. "Commonly, good nutrient-rich thickening shampoos and hair growth shampoos should have good active ingredients, therefore they are usually not the cheapest on the shelf." At the end of the day, make sure you and your hair needs are able to meet somewhere in the middle.

Hair type: In short, what works for someone with type 4C curls might not work for someone with straight hair. Different hair has different needs, and the shampoo you choose should reflect that. "For someone with thick curly hair, moisturizing shampoo is a good fit because it won’t build up as much as it would with some with thin fine hair using a heavy moisturizing shampoo," says Ellsworth. "Ultimately, creating a hair care plan that is ideal for your individual hair and its growth is key."

What causes hair loss?

Hair thinning can be caused by a number of factors according to Dr. Jhin, including (but not limited to):

• aging

• genetics

• diet

• hormones

• trauma and stress

Stress-caused hair loss can even take place up to six months following a stressful event, due to the hair cycle, dermatologist Michelle Green, MD, says.

That said, all the dermatologists and stylists our team spoke to noted that the most common type of hair loss is pattern hair loss—and it's totally natural. Dr. Jhin says that this type of hair thinning affects more than 80 percent of males and 50 percent of females in their lifetime. "Your hair follicles begin to shrink with every growth cycle, causing hair strands to become thinner and more fragile over time," she says. "The truth is, change is an inevitable part of aging and your hair is no different."

Can hair grow back after thinning?

Yes, you can grow thicker hair through your shampoo choice. Some ingredients to avoid (because they can cause scalp irritation or allergic reactions) include sulfates and DMDM Hydantoin, according to Dr. Green and dermatologist Bobby Buka, MD.

As for what shampoos to look for, it's really relative to your hair. Dr. Green recommends a hydrating shampoo with lightweight oils like jojoba, avocado, argan, and coconut oils. "These ingredients help restore shine to the hair and provide hydration for both the hair shafts and scalp," she says.

If that feels like a lot to digest, don't worry. All of the shampoos below come recommended by hairstylists, salon owners, dermatologists, and more. All of them are expert-tested to improve volume, growth, and circulation of the follicles, creating an environment for your hair growth journey to *thrive*.

What can you do to prevent hair thinning?

Truthfully, Dr. Jhin actually says there's technically no medical cure for patterned hair loss, but the good news is that you can definitely take preventative measures that'll help keep thinning to a minimum. Firstly, she says to avoid certain hairstyles like tight braids and ponytails, but it's also super important that you monitor your overall scalp health. "Dandruff or residue build-up can cause inflammation and increase the likelihood of hair loss," she says. "It’s extremely important to start considering your scalp as part of your anti-aging routine. Consistent, ongoing treatment is essential."

And, of course, that's why it's necessary to use a good shampoo. Because you likely use one at least twice a week, prioritize using a shampoo that really takes care of your scalp.

How can you treat thinning hair?

Well, it's likely that because you're here, you're past the preventative stage and are looking to treat hair loss. In addition to a good quality shampoo, Brown says it's important to also use hair growth serums, take hair growth vitamins, and incorporate hair masks and hair oils in your routine. But, if you're more of a minimalist, she says you'll just want to be sure that your shampoo contains nourishing ingredients like vitamins B5, C, E, and sunflower, almond, soybean, and coconut oils.

Meet the experts

• Katelyn Ellsworth, hair stylist

• Alex Brown, hair stylist and salon owner

• Rachel Shtifter, hair stylist and founder of Sleepy Tie

• Sal Misseri, hair stylist and owner of Reverie Salon

• Justin Toves-Vincilione, hair stylist

• Roxanne Beltran, hair stylist

• Brendan Camp, MD, double-board certified dermatologist with MDCS Dermatology

• Jennifer Baron, MD, board-certified dermatologist

• Brandon Kirsch, MD, board-certified dermatologist

• Bobby Buka, MD, board-certified dermatologist and co-founder of The Dermatology Specialists

• Michelle Green, MD, board-certified dermatologist

• Marie Jhin, MD, board-certified dermatologist and founder of Premier Aesthetic Dermatology

• Gaby Longsworth, Ph.D., director in Sterne Kessler's Biotechnology & Chemical Practice Group

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Let's face it, we've all had a bad hair day (or several) involving sad, limp tresses that look plastered to our heads. While the slicked-back ponytail is always a solid option on those flat hair days, sometimes you don't want to resort to a pulled-back look. That's when the best hair volumizing products, including shampoos, sprays, leave-in conditioners, and mousses, can turn a limp look into bright, bouncy height.

Of course, the last thing you want is a "volumizing" product that only weighs your hair down further. That's why we spoke with a hairstylist and dermatologists to find the best products to add major volume to even the finest, straightest strands.

What are volumizing hair sprays?

Hair volumizing products are designed to add airiness and height to hair that may have a tendency to sit flat against the scalp. According to dermatologist Azadeh Shirazi, MD, the ingredients in these products "are designed to lift the hair up and away from the scalp. They’re intended for those with fine or thin hair looking to achieve a more full hairstyle."

Key ingredients in hair-volumizing sprays include polymers or resins designed to coat the hair and stiffen it up and away from the scalp. Others feature "oil-absorbing compounds like dry powders to soak up sebum (oil) and prevent it from weighing hair down, and still others work by strengthening and thickening each individual hair strand making them appear thicker," says Dr. Shirazi. To find the absolute best hair volumizing products, we consulted with Dr. Shirazi along with three other board-certified dermatologists, and combed through hundreds of customer reviews. Read on for our final list.

Perfect Repair Hair Masque

Dermatologist Dendy Engelman, MD, recommends this to her patients who want to thicken the appearance of their manes. "It is formulated with rice starch and rice bran, which helps stimulate hair growth and add volume," says Dr. Engelman. We're big fans of its formula—a combo of glycerin and vitamins B5 and E—which Dr. Engelman says can deeply hydrate hair strands. "I love that this mask also focuses on scalp health because healthy, voluminous hair starts at the scalp," she says.

Scalp Serum

This scalp serum is a favorite product of dermatologist Dr. Shirazi. He loves that it effectively promotes hair thickness, thanks to key "hair growth ingredients like Procapil 3%, which is clinically shown to increase hair density."

The product "also has other hair-supportive ingredients such as rosemary, caffeine, and aloe vera," says Shirazi. This serum should be applied directly to the scalp twice a day. In addition to promoting hair thickness and reducing hair loss, the serum also moisturizes dry or itchy scalps.

Volumetry Volumizing Root Lifting Spray

This leave-in treatment helps prevent oils from building up at your roots, which can drag down hair, especially thinner strands. The unscented formula is applied directly to the roots after shampooing. As your hair dries, naturally or with a blow-dryer, the spray adds a natural lift from the roots.

This spray is a great option for thin hair or people prone to an oily scalp. One satisfied customer writes that the product, "Adds a little more volume and lift to my hair without weighing it down."

Body Volume Blowdry Hold Spray

Dr. Engelman recommends this hair spray for people who need some extra life in their strands. Its star ingredient: caffeine, which can help stimulate hair follicles to give you extra volume and lift at the roots. Even better, it's super easy to use: simply spray this on your towel-dried hair from the roots to the mid lengths. Then follow your normal blowout routine, says Dr. Engelman.

Grow Strong Thickening 10-in-1 Spray

This drugstore find works as a powerful thickening spray and a leave-in conditioning treatment that turns flat hair full and bouncy for a full day (and beyond, depending on your hair type). It's designed with fine hair in mind, so it won't drag down thinner strands, and contains biotin and vitamin C to nourish and hydrate dry hair.

The spray is unscented, so you don't have to worry about an overpowering perfume. It's also free of paraben and silicone, and is cruelty-free and vegan.

"This spray adds body to my fine hair, and it's easy to use because it's not oily or sticky," says dermatologist Hadley King, who regularly uses this spray. "It also adds heat protection, and it does not contain silicones."

Volumizing Foam

This mousse is made from mostly organic ingredients and comes in an eco-friendly non-aerosol can, but beyond that, it adds major volume with just a small pump of product. This foam is great for frizzy hair, in particular, because it adds structure and hold that will smooth flyaways and add hold. We love that the mousse comes in a small five ounce bottle that travels easily.

Full Dry Volume & Texture Spray

This spray does more than add long-lasting volume. It also serves as a light-hold hairspray to keep your style looking natural without losing its shape. The spray also adds grip for easier styling and acts as a heat protectant to shield your tresses from blow dryers, straighteners, and curling irons. In short, this is a reliable product that you can add to your daily haircare routine or keep in your purse when you need a little extra lift.

Thickening Spray

Dr. Shirazi likes that this "thickening spray is lightweight and contains hydrolyzed wheat protein and other copolymers to volumize and strengthen the hair." The product is designed to be used on damp hair before styling. "To get the most bang be sure to blow dry the hair after to maximize hair fullness," Dr. Shirazi says.

Fine Shampoo

This shampoo is beloved by users for its impressive thickening powers. It has a floral fragrance and is free of parabens, sulfates, and phthalates. Though this shampoo will work for all hair types, it really shines when used on fine hair, as the keratin in the formula strengthens and thickens strands with regular use.

It's safe for color-treated hair and many customers with dry or itchy scalps report that the shampoo has helped their conditions.

Dry Texturizing Spray

This sleek-looking product is a winning volumizing hair spray that also absorbs oils at the scalp. It's a favorite of Dr. Shirazi's because "it’s designed to not only add volume and texture but it also acts as a dry shampoo."

The spray contains VP/VA copolymers, which coat hair strands and help strengthen them so they stand up, rather than fall flat against your scalp.

"This one is one of my favorites for adding an instant lift and hold to my hair between wash days," says Dr. Engelman. "It is super buildable and absorbs oil on the scalp and at the roots without leaving a heavy residue on the hair."

Guava Beach Waves

Spritz this texturizing spray over the lower half of your damp or dry hair to unleash luscious natural-looking beachy waves, no heat styling required. This product adheres to the eco-friendly ingredient standards that Credo holds, so it comes in sustainable packaging, and is never tested on animals.

This product is designed for use on all hair types, from thin to thick and straight to curly. Reviewers love that it doesn't weigh hair down and provides natural texture that's not crunchy.

I Create Volume

The name of this product says it all: it creates volume. This is a cream, rather than a spray, which gives you a little more control over where it's applied. The product is made with organic honey, which adds moisture and hold, plus aloe vera for stronger, fuller strands. Dr. Shirazi likes aloe vera in volumizing hair products because it "provides hydration and volume without weighing down thin hair."

This cream is designed for use on damp hair before blow drying. As it dries, your hair will be lifted and full from the roots. Reviewers with curls are especially fond of this product, as it leaves their hair soft and defined, not dry or crunchy.

Embody Volumizing Hair Foam

Jonathan Van Ness' line of cult-favorite hair products includes this lightweight non-aerosol foam that adds fullness to all hair types. It's formulated with hemisqualane, which strengthens and hydrates hair, as well as biotin to enhance hair thickness, and marshmallow root extract, which softens strands and helps keep your style in place.

The spray has a sandalwood and amber scent that users love. However, many note that it's easy to use more than you need of this foam, so start with a tiny pump, even if you have thick or long hair.

The Dry Shampoo

This dry shampoo is a powder that comes with a brush for application, just like a finishing powder for your face. It's made from tapioca starch, rice starch, and persimmon powder, which absorb oil and grease and leave your hair smelling fresh. But most importantly, this dry shampoo perks limp, flat strands right up from their roots. After application, give your hair a good shake upside down, and flip back up to find gorgeous volume.

Extra-Body Sculpting Foam

This is a cult-favorite product for a reason. Not only does it come at a wallet-friendly price point, but this volumizing mousse also adds impressive height and hold to hair without weighing you down.

If you apply this mousse to damp hair before blow-drying, you'll get the most dramatic home blowout of your life, whether you have curly, dry, or straight hair. It has a bright, citrusy sent and leaves your hair with a bit of extra shine as a bonus.

Dry Finish Working Texture Hair Spray

When you want to add some extra oomph to an updo, make this volumizing hairspray your go-to. It provides a light hold, so there will be no crunchy bits in sight, and a matte finish that looks natural and lived-in, not too perfect.

In addition to hold, the spray also adds texture to help give sleek or thin strands extra grippiness. Users love that the product smells good and can turn even the most curl-resistant straight hair into ringlets.

Thick & Full + Biotin & Collagen Volumizing Conditioner

This drugstore conditioner is a total steal, when you consider how effective it is at boosting volume and thickening fine strands. The formula contains biotin, collagen, and wheat protein to nourish and strengthen hair. This conditioner is best for oily, damaged, frizzy, and color-treated manes, as it provides hydration and protection against heat tools.

What to look for when shopping for the best volumizing hair products

Formula

If you have fine hair, you'll want to prioritize a lighter product that won't weigh your hair down, says Ryan Sanger, founder of Hair Lingerie, a aalon in Los Angeles. "The lightest formula on your hair will be a spray or a mousse, [since] they are formulated lighter on the hair to not weigh it down," says Sanger. "Any cream is going to naturally be heavier on the hair, weighing your hair and its style down."

Ingredients

"The key is to look for gentle on-the-hair ingredients that give you the biggest bang for fullness," says Dr. Shirazi. Many volumizing hair products contain proteins derived from wheat and soy. These can add texture, but Shirazi warns that adding too much protein to your hair can cause buildup and lead to breakage.

He recommends ingredients like keratin, rice protein, and collagen, because these bind to the hair shaft to make it appear thicker.

If dryness is an issue, aloe vera is great for hydrating hair, and "hyaluronic acid helps maintain hydration and add volume without weighing down the hair shaft," says Dr. Shirazi. Caffeine also acts on your hair just like it does for your energy levels, waking up the follicles for a fuller, more airy style.

Ingredients to steer clear of include phthalates, which "some studies suggest may impose health risks," says Shirazi. In addition, he says to avoid sodium chloride, which is often used as a texturizing agent, but can be drying to the hair and scalp.

Application

Certain volumizing products are designed for use on wet hair, and others can be used on dry. If you don't wash your hair regularly, a product for dry hair may be more practical for your routine. On the other hand, products for wet hair can help set your style in place so it lasts longer, especially if you blow dry or heat style your hair after application.

How to use hair-thickening and volumizing sprays

As Dr. Shirazi notes, hair volumizing products work from the scalp to lift strands away from your head. To get the most out of your product, spray it from the roots to the ends of your hair.

Most hair volumizing products are best used on wet hair, but some, such as dry shampoos, can be used on a dry 'do. If spraying wet hair, lightly saturate your strands after toweling them dry. For extra lift, flip your hair over while spraying.

Then you can either let your hair dry naturally for enhanced height and texture with little extra effort, or you can blow dry your hair to set a style in place. As the volumizing product dries, it will strengthen and lift your hair. Many products also have holding properties that will help keep your style in good shape all day, if not longer.

How we chose the best volumizing products

WH editors dug though hundreds of popular haircare products, thousands of customer reviews, and consulted dermatologists and beauty editors for their tried-and-true products. Our list of the best volumizing products include options for all hair types, budgets, and styling concerns.

Meet the experts

• Dendy Engelman, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist who is based in New York, NY.

• Azadeh Shirazi, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and founder of AziMD Skincare in La Jolla, CA.

• Hadley King, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist in New York, NY.

• Ryan Sanger is a hairstylist and founder of Hair Lingerie, a salon in Los Angeles, CA.

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