These Growth-Boosting Scalp Serums Support Stronger, Fuller Hair
4 min readHair loss doesn’t have to be dramatic to be noticeable. You might run your hands through your hair and feel sparse patches along your temples, or maybe you catch your part appearing wider than usual. If you think your hair is thinning, it may be the perfect time to invest in the best scalp serums for hair growth. While Minoxidil used to be the go-to remedy for shedding and thinning strands, the beauty market’s now flooded with serums that boast more natural ingredients to stimulate the scalp and aid regrowth.
“When I’m recommending a scalp serum for hair growth, I look for ingredients that support circulation, strengthen the follicle, and create a healthy scalp environment,” shares celebrity hairstylist TerraRose Puncerelli. “Some of my favorites include biotin, caffeine, rosemary oil, peptides, apple seed, niacinamide, and plant stem cells.”
Thankfully, several brands have concocted formulas that combine many of these. Still, even with the most potent blends, consistent application is essential for the best results. As celebrity hairstylist Jackson Simmonds says, “consistency and frequency matter.”
Our Picks of theBest Scalp Serums for Hair Growth
“Hair grows in cycles, so patience is key,” adds Puncerelli. “Most people start noticing improvements in scalp health and reduced shedding within a few weeks, but visible growth usually takes about six to 12 weeks of consistent use.”
We get it: The number of over-the-counter scalp serums for hair growth is overwhelming. That’s why we’ve consulted experts and personally tested dozens of serums to bring you the ones that will produce the best results. If you’re ready to dedicate the time to growing the most luscious mane of your life, keep reading to discover our nine favorite scalp serums for hair growth.
Pros
- Utilizes plant-based ingredients
- Soothes scalp
- Benefits hair as well as the scalp
Cons
- Pretty expensive for a small bottle
Sisley Paris may be best known for its luxury skin care, but its hair line is just as powerful and effective. Simmonds swears by this potent growth serum, which combines vitamins, minerals, protein, and plant-based extracts to stimulate and fortify follicles, reduce fallout, and keep your strands anchored in place. Additionally, the benefits extend beyond your scalp: With continued use, hair looks shinier, feels stronger, and appears denser.
Key ingredients: Arginine, rice protein, vitamin peptide
Size: 2 oz
Our expert says: “Le Serum is plant-based, super clean (non-oily), and smells amazing. I use it for my own hair because it just absorbs into my scalp almost immediately and does not feel greasy.”—Simmonds
Pros
- Very affordable
- Multitasking formula can be used on scalp and throughout strands
Cons
- It’s a little heavy and can make hair look greasy if you use too much
According to Puncerelli, rosemary is best known for boosting circulation in the scalp. When paired with castor oil, which nourishes follicles and strengthens hair, you get a winning hair growth recipe. You only need a few drops in each section of hair to invigorate your scalp.
Key ingredients: Rosemary oil, macadamia oil, jojoba oil
Size: 2 oz
Our expert says: “I love this because rosemary oil is known for stimulating circulation in the scalp, while castor oil helps nourish the follicles and strengthen hair. It’s a great option for someone who prefers a more natural, botanical-based formula.”—Puncerelli
Pros
- Strong cocktail of ingredients boosts hair density in 90 days
Cons
- You’ll need to buy more than one bottle to experience the full effect
Many scalp serums can feel rather viscous and leave hair looking greasy, but that’s not the case with this one. Puncerelli says it’s “very lightweight and great for daily use,” which makes it ideal for finer hair textures. “It uses plant-based actives to support thicker-looking hair and improve scalp health without weighing hair down,” she adds. The watery texture seamlessly melts into hair, and you’ll start to notice thin spots get thicker in about 12 weeks.
Key ingredients: Mung bean, red clover, turmeric
Size: 1 oz
An ELLE contributor says: “When I changed birth control, I ran into some serious hair issues, including shedding and texture changes—you name it, I was experiencing it. Incorporating this into my routine made a major difference. Thinning spots near my temples sprouted with baby hairs, and my mane is well on its way back to becoming lusciously thick.”—Mary Honkus
Pros
- Works quicker than other serums
- Minimizes bald spots
Cons
- Rather pricey
Hair growth serums require patience and consistency, with many taking an average of 12 weeks to notice a difference. With Nulastin, you’ll observe clear growth after about three to six weeks—most notably, with baby hairs sprouting along your hairline. The effects continue to multiply the longer you use it. By the 12-week mark, hair is typically fuller and thicker, and most bald spots disappear. The potent serum also reduces the likelihood of shedding, so your hair can grow to its full potential.
Key ingredients: Signal proteins, elastin protein, keratin protein
Size: 1.7 oz
A Dermstore reviewer says: “I have been using this product for two years and love it! People have noticed my hair volume, and it’s fabulous. I highly recommend this product! Don’t let the price deter you, it’s worth the commitment to have my hair volume back after losing hair in pre- and post-menopause.”
Pros
- Incredibly affordable compared to other hair serums
- Plant-based formula
Cons
- Not gluten free (may cause a reaction for those with a gluten intolerance)
Peptides act as a signal for molecules to promote circulation and stimulate hair follicles. What does this mean? Well, when regularly massaged into the scalp, they initiate anagen (the hair’s growth phase), so your strands can grow longer and stronger. Peptides are a key ingredient in The Ordinary’s affordable scalp serum, as well as caffeine, which creates the ideal environment for hair to thrive. Dispense a full pipette of the water-based formula into your hair every day and watch as your mane gets fuller and healthier as the weeks pass by.
Key ingredients: Caffeine, biotinoyl tripeptide-1, acetyl tetrapeptide-3
Size: 2 oz
One Ulta reviewer says: “I’ve been losing hair like crazy due to some health issues but after a month of using this my hair loss has decreased significantly and even noticing new baby hairs all over.”
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Pros
- Great for travel
- Cooling application
- Doesn’t leave hands sticky
Cons
- You may need to replenish frequently
For the most targeted application, we recommend this K-beauty roll-on serum. The metal-tipped rollerball not only delivers the invigorating menthol- and biotin-infused serum exactly where you need it, but it also feels relaxing as it glides along your scalp. This serum is ideal for people who are constantly on-the-go because the slim pen is simple to pack, making it easier to keep up with your scalp routine while traveling.
Key ingredients: Biotin, rosemary oil, amino acid
Size: 0.5 oz
An Amazon reviewer says: “I have Lupus and RA, and this product absolutely transformed my hair. So much of my hair fell out and it wasn’t growing. Not only is it growing, but my hair feels fuller. I now use it all the time along with the shampoo and conditioner.”
Meet The Experts
Jackson Simmonds is a New York-based celebrity hairstylist who has been styling, cutting, and coloring hair for more than 20 years.
TerraRose Puncerelli is a Los Angeles-based celebrity hairstylist.
What ingredients should you look for in a scalp serum for hair growth?
There are plenty of ingredients that boost circulation and stimulate hair follicles, which, in turn, can spur hair growth. “For example, caffeine and rosemary oil help boost circulation, which brings oxygen and nutrients to the follicles,” explains Puncerelli. “Peptides and biotin help strengthen the hair structure and support keratin production, while ingredients like niacinamide help calm inflammation and improve scalp health. When the scalp is balanced and well-nourished, hair can grow more consistently and with better strength.” Additionally, hydrating ingredients, such as hyaluronic acid and aloe, moisturize the scalp, creating a healthier skin barrier and a better environment for hair to grow in.
Do hair growth serums really work?
Yes, but not overnight. “A good scalp serum can improve the health of the scalp, stimulate follicles, and reduce breakage at the root,” Puncerelli says. This requires regular use for at least 12 weeks to see results. If you want to see dramatic results, you should also try to improve your hair routine in other ways. For example, you can reduce heat styling and get regular trims to support “fuller and stronger hair growth over time.”
How often should you use a scalp serum?
Most scalp serums require daily application—sometimes twice a day—to see results. Each formulation is different, though, so be sure to read the directions on your bottle. “I typically recommend applying them to a clean scalp, either after washing or on dry hair between washes,” says Puncerelli. “Part the hair in sections and apply the serum directly to the scalp, then gently massage it in with your fingertips. That massage step is important because it helps stimulate blood flow and evenly distribute the product.”
What causes hair loss?
There are many factors that contribute to hair loss, including genetics, your environment, stress, hormone disruptions, and malnutrition. To get to the root of your hair loss, it’s best to consult with your doctor.
In some cases, Puncerelli says your hair routine can contribute to shedding. “I see a lot of clients experiencing hair loss from tight hairstyles or buildup on the scalp that blocks follicles. Keeping the scalp healthy and balanced is a big part of maintaining hair growth.” Along with using a scalp serum for hair growth, don’t forget to regularly use a clarifying shampoo, like the Act+Acre Clarifying Hard Water Shampoo, to rebalance your scalp and fully cleanse away product buildup.
How We Tested
For this piece, ELLE contributing writer Mary Honkus consulted two professional hairstylists to learn about scalp serums for hair growth. Beyond outlining what ingredients stimulate hair follicles, our experts also shared common factors that lead to hair loss. After reviewing their recommendations, we also polled ELLE editors on their favorite scalp serums and read through thousands of customer reviews to curate our list of the best formulas.
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