Do hair growth serums work?
No hair growth treatment or serum will make you sprout Disney princess-style hair, especially not overnight. They can, however, have a positive impact on the condition of your scalp, encouraging healthier hair growth, as well as improving the look and feel of your existing strands.
Dr Sharon Wong, Consultant Dermatologist and Hair Specialist, explains that “many hair growth serums contain peptides/amino acids and conditioning agents such as hyaluronic acid. These have an aesthetic effect on the hair that’s already on your head, giving it more volume and plumping up its fibres to make them seem thicker and denser.” Many also feature a type of DHT blocker. DHT is an androgen that can cause hair loss to happen at a faster rate, so certain ingredients (and natural ingredients like pumpkin seed oil) can block DHT and prevent hair follicles from shrinking.
These compounds can be used to help mild cases of hair loss, or to prevent it happening in the first place. But if hair thinning has become a bigger concern, your far more likely to see better results that can be achieved by using Minoxidil or another off-the-shelf serum.
Best hair growth serums, tried and tested
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Pros
- They are clinically proven to slow down hair loss after three months of consistent use
- They can be applied on both damp and wet hair (it’s a water-based serum)
Cons
- They’re a little pricey – although you only need a few drops per use
If hair loss is your biggest woe, you can’t get much better than Philip Kingsley – one of the most innovative brands when it comes to hair loss solutions. Developed by trichologists, these Density Preserving Scalp Drops contain peptides and azelaic acid (to encourage growth), pyridoxine HCL (to stimulate hair follicles) and zinc PCA (to normalise sebum production). Yep, quite the impressive ingredients list.
To use, simply apply a few drops to damp or dry hair. They don’t need to be rinsed out either, making them super easy to introduce into your routine.
Glowing Customer Review: “I am delighted with this product. In just a few days of using the product, my hair stopped falling out. And after three months of use, I have a lot of young hair. I ordered again.”
Key Specifications:
| Key Ingredients: | Peptides, azelaic acid, pyridoxine HCL and zinc PCA |
|---|---|
| Who’s it best for? | Hair loss and thinning hair |
Pros
- Backed by clinical evidence to show noticeable results in 12 weeks
- It has an aromatherapy-like aroma
Cons
- It promises to encourage growth but isn’t a medical-grade treatment like minoxidil
A rare few products generate universal buzz amongst beauty experts and editors – Chāmpo’s Pitta Growth Serum is one of them.
The formula contains caffeine, peptides and DHT-blocking red clover extract, making it the perfect trifecta for stimulating hair growth. Cleverly, the serum targets a hair-loss hormone named DHT. By managing its levels, the tonic significantly prevents hair loss while also stimulating new growth.
Our beauty writer, Clare Stephenson, has put it to the test, massaging a few dollops into her hair line, and she can attest that this stuff truly works.
Customer review: «I never leave reviews but felt I had to for this product. I’ve been using this serum daily for around 2 weeks and already seeing a difference. I’m noticing less hair shedding, my hair appears fuller and shinier and I’m noticing new hair growth in problem areas. I’m delighted and very surprised by how quickly I’ve noticed a difference- other people have also commented on the difference in my overall hair health.»
Key Specifications:
| Key ingredients: | Caffeine, peptides and DHT-blocking red clover extract |
|---|---|
| Who’s it best for? | Hair growth and fall out |
Hair Syrup: Before and after
Image provided by Hair Syrup
Pros
- Lightweight and water-based formula that quickly absorbs
- Affordable
- Stimulates hair follicles to encourage growth
Cons
- Less effective for hair loss
Products promising to grow you a new head of hair don’t come cheap, but this one’s £15 and…it works.
It contains invigorating caffeine extract, which aims to help to improve hair thickness and density. Thanks to its anti-fallout and anti-dandruff powers, this will help give hair a full reset. It even works for colour-treated strands, so you can enjoy more dazzling vibrancy.
Customer review: «I have repurchased this 3, maybe 4 times so far. It feels like it is working, I like the applicator and the coolness when you put it on your scalp. I’ve been using this alongside rosemary oil, so I don’t know if it is either or the combination that works, but it does work!»
Key Specifications:
| Key Ingredients: | Caffeine powder, Redensyl (to encourage growth) |
|---|---|
| Who’s it best for? | Thinning hair, sensitive scalps, everyone |
Pros
- Testing saw that 85% of users saw visible hair regrowth after three months
- A good option for those with fine hair
Cons
- As hair growth has a longer growth cycle than eyelashes, expect results to take longer compared to UKLash eyelash serum
If you’re a fan of UKLash’s Eyelash Growth Serum, you’ll know that the brand is an expert when it comes to hair growth. And trust us, the results are there to prove it.
The UKHair Growth Serum contains AnaGain™ (pea sprout extract), turmeric, and lemon fruit extract that not only stimulates the hair follicles to encourage growth, but also nourishes the scalp to minimise hair loss.
We also love that the serum has a water-weight texture to it, so it seamlessly sinks into the scalp without leaving a greasy residue.
Customer review: «I’ve tried everything – gummies, rosemary oil, different shampoos, brushes, not washing as much. I had thin hair before my pregnancy but even worse after. Now here I am after three months of using the serum every other day and my hair is so healthy, thick and shiny. I love it and can’t wait to see what it’ll look like in a years time.»
Key Specifications:
| Key Ingredients: | AnaGain (pea sprout extract), turmeric and lemon fruit extract |
|---|---|
| Who’s it best for? | Everyone |
Pros
- It has a very light and airy foam that doesn’t feel sticky or greasy in the hair
- Clinical studies found that after two months, 97% of people said hair looked and felt fuller
Cons
- It’s expensive – and a small bottle
- It helps to increase hair density and fullness, but is not a medical-grade product (like minoxidil) that will encourage speedy growth
If you’re familiar with the transformative results of RevitaLash for the eyelashes, consider this the hair growth version. Yes, it’s a spenny option but if you have the means to splurge, it’s worth the sting – plus you can get it on sale RN for £100, down from £125.
This airy foam does everything in its power to strengthen the quality and quantity of your hair. It looks after your scalp to encourage new growth, protects against damage and helps boost your overall hair’s thickness and density.
How’s it done? It uses the brand’s proprietary complex, BioPeptin Complex, which contains the gold-standard ingredients needed for hair growth and maintenance – hi, lipids, peptides, biotin, and panthenol. Plus, there’s amino acids and vitamin B to keep the hair soft and nourished.
Customer review: “I have been using this for a month or so and definitely can see a difference. My hair is fuller and I can get away with leaving it for a day without washing. Also seems to be less staticky. Coming to the end of the first bottle of foam and plan on reordering.”
Key Specifications:
| Key Ingredients: | BioPeptin Complex (ipids, peptides, biotin and panthenol) and amino acids |
|---|---|
| Who’s it best for? | Thin/fine hair looking for extra volume |
Pros
- It’s an affordable option
- It keeps the condition of the scalp healthy to encourage growth
- It contains Aminexil, an ingredient used to prevent hair fall
Cons
- The results are more subtle than others in this edit
If hair loss is your main concern – oh, and keeping to a reasonable budget – give the L’Oreal Growth Booster Scalp Serum a try. No, it won’t magically grow you luscious locks after three weeks (tbh, no product is a miracle; growth takes time), but it will keep your scalp moisturised and in healthy condition – encouraging new hairs will thrive. Plus, with a stronger scalp that’s less congested with build-up, you’ll see less hair fall resulting in thicker, denser hair.
The best way to use this is on clean, damp hair. Squeeze a few drops around your scalp and use a massaging brush to work it in. There’s no need to rinse but will feel completely undetectable once your strands are dry. Bish, bash and bosh.
Customer review: “Only been using this for weeks but already I have seen less hair loss. It smells amazing and leaves my hair so soft. Will definitely purchase again.”
Key Specifications:
| Key Ingredients: | Aminexil (to prevent hair fall), niacinamide and ginger extract |
|---|---|
| Who’s it best for? | Hair loss, hair thinning |
Pros
- It contains pumpkin seed extract which blocks DHT – an androgen that is associated with hair loss in the body
- Supports the condition of the hair and scalp to reduce shine and breakages
Cons
- It’s an expensive formula
- It helps to boost hair density, but is not a guaranteed hair growth serum
If you ever suspected that vegan products weren’t as powerful as their animal-derived counterparts, this serum will prove you wrong.
Expect to see healthier, smoother, more hydrated ends, with a big drop in split ends, too. Some injected volume could also be spotted at the roots, while strands were seen with some diamond-like shine. Prepare to be seriously impressed.
Customer review: «I have been experiencing a lot of hair loss. My hair was looking and feeling thinner, and I was feeling self conscious. I tried soooo many other oils and nothing changed. I gave this one a try and OMG. The week after I started using it, I could count the hairs in my brush with one hand. After two + weeks, my scalp has been feeling less tender to the touch, and I can even see my scalp slowly starting to cover with hair again! It is a little more pricey, but if you buy anything hair oil, it is a waste of your money. But this one instead!»
Key Specifications:
| Key Ingredients: | Retinol, pumpkin seed extract, rosemary oil |
|---|---|
| Who’s it best for? | Hair growth, hair loss, hair thinning |
Pros
- Minoxidil is clinically proven to boost hair growth with consistent use
- This is a personalised treatment, delivered to your door, that is supplied by a dermatologist
Cons
- Some users may experience an initial shedding phase before growth starts
The sister brand to Skin + Me, Hair + Me is the first online hair growth subscription service that prescribes you with a daily-use serum or capsule, delivered to your door every month.
Whether you choose the serum or capsule, both treatments are formulated with minoxidil – a clinically tested, active medication that increases blood flow to hair follicles, helping re-growth. The drops also include supporting ingredients, like lactic acid and essential oils, to maintain a healthy and hydrated scalp.
All you’re instructed to do is take/apply the capsule or serum daily, and over a period of four months (with full results seen at six months) you’ll notice thicker and fuller hair. You can read our full review here where Meg, Cosmo‘s Video Lead, tested out the service.
Customer review: “I’ve seen a significant transformation, my hair is thicker and more dense. I’ve noticed LOTS of new baby hairs and my hair feels silkier and healthier.”
Key Specifications:
| Key Ingredients: | Minoxidil, lactic acid and essential oils |
|---|---|
| Who’s it best for? | Hair loss, hair thickening |
Best for eradicating dandruff
Kérastase Genesis Serum Anti-Chute Fortifiant
Now 10% Off
Pros
- Contains aminexil, ginger root extract and caffeine to boost hair follicles and prevent breakage
- Supports and nourishes the scalp
- Easy application with pipette
Cons
- Requires roughly four drops per day, meaning the bottle can be used up quickly
Your hair is never going to look or feel good if your scalp isn’t on point. This formula delivers some much-needed hydration to roots, helping to eliminate dandruff.
Containing energising ginger root and Aminexil (L’Oreal’s big dog in the hair loss treatment game), the lightweight serum left us with healthier heads of hair and fewer breakages. Locks were left shinier and smoother, too.
If you’re struggling with baby hairs’ that refuse to grow past a certain point, add this one to your basket ASAP.
Customer review: «Lord!!! wonderful product, I have used many other companies against hair loss, this one is number 1, smells so nice and gentle. This is my 2nd bottle results after two weeks. Thank you Kerastase!!!The most important thing is that the shine of the hair is not lost after application.»
Key Specifications:
| Key Ingredients: | Ginger root and Aminexil (to prevent hair loss) |
|---|---|
| Who’s it best for? | Dandruff and dry scalps |
Pros
- Helps boost scalp health and hair condition
- Has an aromatherapy scent of jasmine sambac, champaca, cedarwood and tonka beans
Cons
- The formula may be too rich for those with fine strands
- Some may not like the aroma
Never used a pre-wash treatment? 1) Where have you been?! 2) It’s dead easy and will leave you with healthier hair in no time. This did just that, thanks to its oil-rich formula including safflower, sesame, castor and jojoba, to name but a handful of goodies.
Not only does it leave hair smelling divine thanks to its nose-pleasing scent, but it also improves thickness and works to banish dandruff. Prepare to see hair looking revived and healthier, with dry scalps quenched.
Customer review: «As a nurse in New York my hair is consistently getting damaged by washing it before and after work. Either from overwashing or the stress, I noticed my hair getting weaker and thin. Since I started using this in my hair routine, my hair feels fuller. The scent is very calming. I would absolutely recommend this product to individuals who work in a field where they put a lot of stress on their hair.»
Key Specifications:
| Key Ingredients: | Safflower, sesame, castor and jojoba oils |
|---|---|
| Who’s it best for? | All, but best on curly, coily and wavy hair |
Pros
- Supports the scalp and boosts density in three months
Cons
- Slightly higher price point compared to others in this edit
We’re often so focused on crow’s feet popping up that we forget the toll ageing takes on our hair. Yep, I’m talking sparse patches and grey hairs.
Naturally, we’re all about embracing the grey but if you want to hold them off for a bit longer, this serum contains a cocktail of antioxidants and amino acids – dubbed the brand’s «Anti-Grey Complex» – proven to reduce discolouration. At the same time, the peptide and pea sprout extract formula will help you grow thicker locks from the root.
Customer review: «ABSOLUTELY WONDERFUL! Yes, it’s pricey. But Y’ALL—this little bottle did EVERYTHING it claimed it would, undeniably, in just a week’s time. The formula is super lightweight and can conveniently be used on wet or dry hair without any residual effect/oiliness/buildup. My scalp is notably fuller and my roots are proof of greatly increased rates of growth/length—true in less than 7 uses and increasingly effective with each additional application/time passed. This one is SO worth your coin, friends!»
Key Specifications:
| Key Ingredients: | Antioxidants, amino acids, pea extract |
|---|---|
| Who’s it best for? | Grey hairs |
What might be causing hair loss?
No matter your age, ethnicity or gender, hair loss can plague us all. So, how do you determine what’s going wrong?
First up is intermittent shedding, aka going through phases of seeing more hair in your drains. “Seasonal hair shedding is a perfect example,” says Dr Wong. “Some people’s hair follicles are sensitive to changes to the number of daylight hours, leading to shedding that will self-limit without any treatment.
“Intermittent shedding can also be due to stress, dietary changes, periods of time when sex hormones are in flux – such as when starting, changing or stopping hormonal contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy (HRT), or after pregnancy – and following illnesses accompanied by a fever.”
There’s also the stuff that can be trickier to treat:
- Genetic hair loss: Such as male or female pattern hair loss.
- Telogen effluvium: Sounds like a Harry Potter spell, but actually means excess hair shedding.
- Alopecia areata: This autoimmune hair loss condition may affect a single patch of skin, but it can also take over multiple areas across the body, scalp and face.
- Traction alopecia: Hair loss due to excessive pulling from tight hairstyles (that slicked-back ponytail look ain’t worth it if you ask us).
If you notice inflammation, spots or sores around the area of hair loss, Dr Wong advises making an appointment with your GP. They can arrange a blood test to find out what’s going on and give you a prescription if necessary.
How we test:
To test the very best hair growth serums, I trialled many of these bottles over many, many months – even years. Formulas like Hair Syrup, RevitaLash and UKHair have been part of my routine for a long time, so I know they do a stellar job at boosting hair density and encouraging growth. Others come highly recommended by the rest of the Cosmo team and professionals. Each surpassed our tests for ease of use, texture, ingredients and, of course, results.
Meet the expert:
Dr Sharon Wong is a Consultant Dermatologist and Hair Specialist. She is one of few UK dermatologists who specialises in both hair loss and scalp health, particularly on Asian and Afro-Caribbean patients.
Why trust Cosmopolitan?
- Clare Stephenson is the Senior Beauty Ecommerce Writer for Cosmopolitan UK. As a professional shopper with over three years of experience, Clare has interviewed many hair professionals, industry experts and trichologists about hair growth and scalp health. Also, after recently taking out her hair extensions, Clare has tested the very best hair growth serums to help her own hair growth journey.
Charlotte Bitmead (she/her) is the Senior Beauty Writer at Cosmopolitan UK. She has over six years experience writing about beauty and has previously written for ELLE and The Sunday Times Style, covering everything from politics to sustainability to inclusivity within the beauty industry. When she’s not writing in-depth features, testing out the newest skincare fad or trying to decide what nail art to get, you can find her overspending in bookshops or shouting at Arsenal matches. Find her on LinkedIn
Clare Stephenson is the Senior Beauty Ecommerce Writer for Cosmopolitan and Women’s Health, covering all things makeup, skincare and hair care, as well as deals events including Black Friday and Amazon Prime Day.
Clare has been an e-commerce writer since 2022, writing matter-of-fact reviews such as deep dives into skin concerns and shopping pages filled with her favourite products for every budget and need. When she’s not typing away, Clare is in front of the camera creating shopping content for Cosmo’s TikTok Shop, testing the most viral beauty products to know.
Before working at Hearst UK, she received a BA degree in Multimedia Journalism at Bournemouth University, focusing her studies on the world of magazines and editorial. From there, she worked as an editorial assistant at Voir Fashion Magazine, covering events like Fashion Week and interviewing reputable brand founders. Outside of work? You can find Clare strolling along London’s Columbia Road Market, pouring her fourth coffee of the day or horseback riding in the countryside.
Follow Clare on Instagram @clarefrancesstephenson
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