As a beauty editor, I’ve tested my fair share of interesting products over the years, from red light masks to foot peels, but my husband is actually the reason I’ve ended up going down the rabbit hole with hair thickening products. He’s always asking me what actually works, what’s hype, and what’s worth spending money on when his hair feels like it’s “not what it used to be”. So over the past year I’ve properly researched it, spoken to experts, and tested a lot more products than I ever expected to (he’s also been a willing guinea pig). What I’ve learned is that hair thinning is rarely as simple as “just use a hair-strengthening shampoo” —it’s usually a mix of internal and external factors, and the solutions tend to be just as layered.
What’s also become really clear is that most people don’t notice thinning overnight. It’s gradual and often shows up months after an initial trigger. As Hollie Rose Clarke, stylist ambassador for Living Proof, explains: “Usually it’s not just one thing, it’s part of our holistic health and wellness. Hair health is often a reflection of what’s going on internally as well as externally, and hair thinning normally begins four to six months after the trigger.” That delay is what makes it so confusing—you’re often trying to fix something that started long before you noticed it. Between genetics, stress, diet shifts, hormonal changes, illness and even build-up from hard water or products, there are a lot of potential culprits. And in reality, it’s often a combination rather than a single cause.
What causes hair thinning?
Hair thinning can be triggered by a wide range of factors, and most people experience more than one at once. As dermatologist Dr Jason Thomson, consultant dermatologist and head of medical at Hair + Me, explains: “Pattern hair loss, also known as androgenic alopecia, is the most common cause of hair loss affecting both men and women. It is typically a gradual process influenced by both genetic and hormonal factors.” On top of this, stress can push hair follicles into the shedding phase, often showing up a few months later as increased hair fall. Diet, sleep, illness, seasonal changes and even rapid weight loss can also disrupt the hair growth cycle, leading to temporary shedding known as telogen effluvium.
When should you seek help from a professional?
It’s normal to shed hair daily, but there’s a point where it shifts from normal to noticeable. Thomson notes that warning signs include “more hair on the pillow or in the shower, a significant amount of hair on the brush, hair feeling less dense, a widening part, or increased scalp visibility when wet.” He adds that if multiple symptoms persist for more than three months, it’s worth seeking a consultation to understand the underlying cause. Similarly, Clarke advises that if shedding is “excessive and lasting longer than a few months, or you’re seeing your scalp show through more or have developed patchy areas, it’s time to see a trichologist.”
What lifestyle changes can you make to help make hair thicker?
This is one of those areas where consistency genuinely makes a difference, but it takes time. Clarke explains that “consistency is key for healthy hair growth and does require patience and perseverance,” with improvements often seen after three to four months. Supporting hair from the inside out is essential—Thomson highlights the importance of “a healthy diet with enough protein and micronutrients such as iron, zinc and vitamin D.” Beyond nutrition, managing stress levels, prioritising sleep and avoiding excessive heat styling can all help reduce unnecessary shedding. Simple additions like scalp massage, using a clarifying shampoo to remove build-up, or even considering water filters or hair supplements can all contribute to a healthier scalp environment.
What products and ingredients can help make hair thicker?
When it comes to products, it’s less about quick fixes and more about creating the right conditions for the hair you already have. Clarke recommends topical scalp treatments such as Living Proof Scalp Density Serum, which is clinically proven to reduce shedding and improve density over time. She also highlights ingredients and tools like red light therapy and PRP as beneficial options for some people. Thomson adds that while shampoos can’t treat the underlying cause of pattern hair loss, they can support scalp health, particularly when they’re boosted with ingredients like niacinamide, caffeine and ketoconazole. For medically driven hair loss, prescription treatments such as minoxidil or finasteride may be recommended under specialist care.
How can you style hair to make it look thicker?
Styling can make an immediate visual difference, even while you’re working on longer-term changes. Clarke suggests rough drying with a root-lifting spray, moving the hair side to side to build lift at the root. She also recommends using a flexible hairspray as both a heat protectant and a hold, then finishing with a dry volume spray for added fullness that can be reactivated throughout the day. A blunt haircut can also instantly create the illusion of thicker ends, while strategic colour placement and highlights add depth and dimension. Ultimately, it’s about building volume through both technique and product, rather than relying on one miracle step.
The Best Hair Thickening Products
- Best Overall Hair Thickening Product: Hair + Me
- Best Hair Thickening Serum: Living Proof Scalp Care Density Serum
- Best Hair Thickening Supplement: Vida Glow Hairology
- Best Styling Product for Hair Thickening: Living Proof Full Dry Volume & Texture Spray
- Best Hair Thickening Shampoo: Waterman’s Grow Me Hair Growth Shampoo
1. Hair + Me
Best Overall
Hair + Me takes a personalised approach to hair loss, which is what sets it apart from the crowded hair growth market. Rather than offering a one-size-fits-all solution, users complete an online consultation before receiving a bespoke formula that may include clinically proven ingredients such as minoxidil and finasteride, depending on their needs. For people experiencing genuine hair thinning rather than simply wanting more volume, this medical-led approach can deliver meaningful results over time. While it requires patience and consistency, it’s one of the few options that tackle the underlying causes of hair loss rather than simply masking them.
Pros
- Personalised treatment plan
- Can include clinically proven hair-loss ingredients
- Convenient online consultations
- Targets the cause of hair thinning rather than just symptoms
Cons
- Requires long-term commitment
- More expensive than over-the-counter products
- Potential side effects depending on prescribed ingredients
- Not suitable for those wanting an instant fix
2. Living Proof Scalp Care Density Serum
Best Serum
If you’re looking for a non-prescription option, this serum is one of the most impressive formulas I’ve come across. The lightweight formula is designed to support scalp health while reducing shedding and improving the appearance of density over time. Unlike many scalp treatments, it absorbs quickly, doesn’t leave behind residue and won’t interfere with styling, making it easy to incorporate into a daily routine. My husband noticed healthier-looking hair, reduced fallout and visible improvements in fullness after consistent use. While it’s not a miracle worker, it’s one of the strongest cosmetic options available for those noticing early signs of thinning.
Pros
- Lightweight and non-greasy
- Easy to use
- Helps reduce shedding
Cons
- Results require consistency
- Expensive price point
3. Vida Glow Hairology
Best Supplement
Supplements can be a useful addition, especially when hair thinning is linked to nutritional gaps or periods of stress. Combining marine collagen peptides with biotin, zinc, selenium and targeted botanical ingredients, this one is designed to support healthy hair growth from within. What I like about it is that it takes a broad approach, addressing several factors that contribute to weaker, thinner-looking hair. It’s not an overnight solution, but it can deliver improvements in hair strength, shine, and reduced breakage after several months of consistent use.
Pros
- Supports overall hair health and strength
- Easy to incorporate into a daily routine
- Also benefits skin and nails
Cons
- Takes several months to show results
- Less effective if thinning isn’t linked to nutritional factors
- Requires ongoing use to maintain benefits
4. Living Proof Full Dry Volume and Texture Spray
Best Styling Product
For instant gratification, few products are quite as effective as this one. It’s the product I recommend most often to people who want their hair to look thicker immediately rather than waiting months for regrowth. It creates space between the hair fibres, adding body, texture and fullness without the crunchiness associated with traditional volumising sprays. The effect lasts surprisingly well throughout the day, making it a staple for anyone with naturally thin or limp hair.
Pros
- Delivers instant volume
- Lightweight feel
- Can be topped up throughout the day
Cons
- Expensive price point for a styling product
5. Waterman’s Grow Me Hair Growth Shampoo
Best Shampoo
Whilst shampoos alone can’t reverse pattern hair loss, this formula can help create a healthier scalp environment while making hair feel thicker and stronger. Think of it as a supportive step within a broader hair-thickening routine rather than a standalone solution. My husband has tried virtually every hair growth shampoo on the market, but always comes back to this one. He now uses it religiously and tells me that it leaves his hair feeling refreshed and less prone to flattening throughout the day.
Pros
- Affordable price point
- Widely available
- Suitable for daily use
Cons
- Doesn’t treat underlying hair loss
6. Current Body LED Hair Growth Helmet
Best Device
LED therapy has become one of the most exciting developments in the hair-growth space, and CurrentBody’s LED Hair Growth Helmet is among the most impressive options available. Using red light therapy, it works by stimulating cellular activity within the scalp to support healthier, stronger hair growth over time. The helmet design makes treatment relatively effortless compared with handheld devices, and clinical studies on low-level light therapy are encouraging. While it’s undoubtedly an investment, it’s one of the few devices backed by a growing body of evidence. The catch is that consistency is crucial, with results typically taking several months to appear.
Pros
- Backed by growing clinical evidence
- Non-invasive treatment
- Easy hands-free design
- Can be used alongside topical treatments
Cons
- Expensive price point
- Requires long-term consistency
- Results take time
7. Rhute Density + Repair Scalp Serum
Best Luxury Product
This formula combines sophisticated scalp-supporting ingredients with a silky, elegant texture that makes daily application feel less like a chore and more like a self-care ritual. Beyond targeting thinning, it also focuses on improving hair quality, helping strands appear healthier, shiniera nd stronger. Whilst it’s certainly not the most budget-friendly option on this list, the premium formulation and sensorial experience help justify the price.
Pros
- Luxurious texture and application
- Supports both scalp and hair health
Cons
- Expensive price point
- Results require patience
- Less clinical evidence than medical treatments
8. Vichy Dercos Anti-Hair Loss Aminixel Clinical Regen Serum
Best Affordable Product
For an accessible introduction to scalp serums, this one offers impressive value. The formula centres around aminexil, an ingredient designed to help maintain hair anchorage at the scalp whilst supporting stronger-looking growth. Lightweight and easy to apply, it fits seamlessly into most routines and doesn’t leave roots greasy. While it won’t deliver the dramatic results associated with prescription treatments, it performs well above its price point and is a great starting point for anyone noticing increased shedding.
Pros
- Excellent value for money
- Lightweight formula
- Easy daily application
- Helps reduce shedding
Cons
- Results can be subtle
- Requires ongoing use
- Less effective than prescription options
9. GLOWWA Hair Food Mens
Best for Men
This daily supplement takes a whole-body approach to hair health, focusing on nutritional support rather than topical treatments—it’s another one that my husband rates particularly highly. What sets the formula apart is its inclusion of saw palmetto and pumpkin seed extract, two natural DHT blockers that have been clinically studied for their role in reducing hair loss in men. DHT (dihydrotestosterone) is a hormone derived from testosterone that can gradually shrink hair follicles in those who are genetically susceptible to male pattern hair loss, leading to thinner, weaker hairs over time. Alongside these ingredients, the formula contains a blend of vitamins, minerals and amino acids designed to support healthy hair growth while also contributing to overall wellbeing. It’s particularly useful for those whose thinning may be linked to stress, poor nutrition or lifestyle factors, but it can also complement a broader hair-loss routine.
Pros
- Supports hair health from within
- Easy to incorporate into a daily routine
Cons
- Only available on brand website and in select salons
- Results typically take several months to become noticeable
- Requires consistent daily use
10. Shark Flexstyle Limited Edition Orchid Sunrise 4-In-1 Air Styler & Hair Dryer
Best Styling Tool
The right styling tool can make a dramatic difference to how thick your hair looks. Using high-velocity airflow rather than extreme heat, this clever multitasking device dries, smooths, curls and volumises in one go, helping create lift at the roots while minimising heat damage that can contribute to breakage over time. It’s particularly impressive on fine or flat hair, thanks to its ability to build long-lasting volume without leaving hair feeling overworked.
Pros
- Uses lower heat to help minimise damage
- Versatile 4-in-1 styling system
- Lightweight and comfortable to use
Cons
- Takes some practice to master the attachments
- Styling results can vary depending on hair type
- Expensive price point
11. Dove Density & Growth Mask
Best Hair Mask
If your hair feels thinner due to breakage rather than hair loss, a strengthening hair mask like this one is well worth adding to your routine. Formulated to nourish fragile strands, it helps improve softness, reduce breakage, and leave hair looking noticeably fuller after each use. Whilst it won’t stimulate new hair growth, healthier, stronger lengths naturally appear thicker and last for longer.
Pros
- Affordable price point
- Leaves hair soft, smooth and easier to style
Cons
- Doesn’t treat the underlying causes of hair thinning
- Results are focused on improving the appearance and condition of existing hair
Why Trust Us
At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.
We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.
