11 Biotin Shampoos for Fuller, Voluminous Hair
Do biotin shampoos really work? A dermatologist weighs in.
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Thanks to excessive heat, piles of product build-up, and, yes, genetics, the long hair we desire isn’t as easy to achieve as one might think. We’ve all been frustrated with slow hair growth, leading us down a rabbit hole to find the best hair growth supplements or even hair growth oils. Of course, an easy fix may be to “just get extensions,” but it’s not as simple as it seems. Extensions often weigh down your scalp and, even worse, cause permanent hair damage. Here’s where biotin shampoos come in.
“Biotin is a water-soluble B-complex vitamin (vitamin B7) that has important roles in cellular metabolism and signaling,” New York-based, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Tiffany Libby tells ELLE.com. Simply put, biotin has long been touted for its hair-strengthening properties. “It [vitamin B7] is used in biotin shampoos as it is believed to strengthen hair follicles and increase scalp circulation and hair density. While there is limited clinical data that points to the use of oral or topical biotin for promoting hair and nail growth in healthy patients, some patients find it helpful in helping to thicken and strengthen hair,” she explains.
Our picks for the best biotin shampoos of 2024
Whether your hair is unable to retain length due to bleaching and coloring, or you’re looking for a formula to maintain and strengthen what you’re working with, biotin shampoos are the way to go. For biotin shampoo to give you the results you desire, you must keep an eye out for some key ingredients that support your hair in every way, such as vitamins and natural oils—both promoting hair growth. Luckily, we polled experts and perused dozens of customer reviews to find the 11 best biotin shampoos to start your hair care journey.
Thank God It's Natural Miracle RepaiRx Strengthening Shampoo
Biotin is already a game-changer for strengthening and fortifying strands. In this composition, biotin is enhanced by the powers of castor oil, another important ingredient in the fight against weak, brittle strands.
Size: 13 fl oz
Amazon rating: 4.6/5 stars
An ELLE editor says: “If you know me, I love a good ponytail—the middle of my scalp does not. I started to notice some thinning, so I wanted a shampoo to help strengthen my strands. This formula makes my 4B/4C hair feel so healthy. When I step out of the shower, my curl pattern pops! TGIN makes great products that agree with my curls.” —Danielle James, digital beauty director
Pros
- Works to restore hair loss
Cons
- Can feel greasy
Putting your trust in shampoo when experiencing hair loss is quite the gamble. Honeydew’s Biotin Shampoo is one that won’t let you down. This Amazon bestseller features natural oils, including coconut oil, as well as vitamins, biotin, and keratin that thoroughly cleanse the scalp to create a clean slate for new growth to sprout.
Size: 8 fl oz
Amazon star rating: 4.4/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “This product saved my long hair. I started using it after I experienced some hair loss. After using it the first time, my hair stopped falling out. I will continue to use this shampoo and conditioner. I highly recommend it for people losing their hair.”
Pureauty Naturals Biotin Shampoo
Pros
- Made in the U.S.A.
- Never tested on animals
Cons
- Must use all three products for maximum results
In this shampoo, biotin is supported by vitamin B3 and pea spout extract to enrich the hair and scalp with nutrients and encourage blood circulation for growth.
Size: 8 fl oz
Walmart rating: 4.6/5 stars
An ELLE editor says: “I’ve been using this shampoo (and the conditioner) for about six weeks. I have curly hair and haven’t gotten a trim, so I don’t know if my hair has grown. However, I have noticed less hair falling out when I wash and brush my tresses.”—Danielle James
Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Strengthening Shampoo Infused with Biotin, Cleanses and Helps Strengthen Weak and Brittle Hair, 12 Ounces
Pros
- Mint sensation stimulates scalp
Cons
- Pump can get defective quickly
Mielle Organic’s Rosemary Mint Oil isn’t the only product in the line that deserves the hype. Before you even get to the oil step, the Rosemary Mint Shampoo is a godsend for those looking to repair breakage-prone and brittle hair over time. It is a slow-burner, so don’t expect immediate results, but rest assured your hair is in good hands.
Size: 12 fl oz
Amazon star rating: 4.6/5 stars
An ELLE editor says: “I believe in hair cycling my products, which means I alternate between nourishing, hydrating, and strengthening options. This is one of my go-to’s when I’m doing a strengthening routine on my strands. The shampoo doesn’t leave your hair with that rubbery texture like other biotin shampoos, but I think it helps maintain minimal shedding if used regularly. I love how refreshing it feels on my scalp. My hair always feels so clean after using this formula. I would recommend this for someone trying to maintain their hair health.” —Danielle James
Nutrafol Nutrafol Root Purifier Shampoo
Pros
- Made with Vegan Protein
- Sensitive scalp approved
Cons
- Hair can become greasy
Nutrafol Root Purifier Shampoo is made for anyone looking to strengthen their locks in just a matter of two weeks. It is formulated to clean hair from the root, without causing damage and stripping the scalp of its natural oils. The main ingredient, Vegan protein, is used to replenish moisture and build the nutrients you need for hair growth.
Size: 8.1 fl oz
Amazon star rating: 4.3/5 stars
An ELLE editor says: "Because of my zig-zag hair pattern, breakage can frequently happen with my hair. I started using Nutrafol to strengthen my hair strands in hopes of less shedding and more length retention. I've used it for four months now—about three times a month—and I actually see a difference. The only reason I'm not using it more frequently is because I'm always testing other products. Nevertheless, it has a prime spot in my coveted shower caddy."—Danielle James
R+Co Dallas Biotin Thickening Shampoo
Pros
- Adds bounce to fine, thin hair
Cons
- Can feel greasy
This R+Co shampoo is focused on nourishment as much as it encourages growth. It coats your hair in a rich formula that includes coconut oil, vitamin B5, and biotin, which imparts a healthy shine and fluffy bounce.
Size: 8.5 fl oz
Amazon star rating: 4.4/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “Probably my favorite shampoo of all time ever. I have fine, straight hair, and this shampoo gives my hair life and bounce. It’s magical!!!!”
OGX Thick & Full + Biotin & Collagen Volumizing Shampoo
Pros
- Super affordable
Cons
- Can leave oily residue behind
With over 7,000 ratings, this Amazon bestseller has built a community of fans for the enviable results it offers—even Demi Lovato likes the brand! Biotin and collagen are the MVPs of this composition for strengthening and boosting the hair’s health.
Size: 13 fl oz
Amazon star rating: 4.6/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “I’ve definitely seen a positive change in my hair growth after using this shampoo for just a couple of weeks! No more chunks of hair falling out anymore, thankfully. Definitely recommend.”
Pureology Strength Cure Shampoo
Pros
- Safe for color-treated hair
Cons
- Heavy scent
Gorgeous results aside, color or chemical treatments aren’t always our best friends. However, if your hair struggles to find its strength, this Pureology shampoo is the best friend you never knew you needed. Keravis is found in this mix and is a powerful compound used to fortify every strand to prevent further breakage or damage.
Size: 9 fl oz
Amazon star rating: 4.7/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “This may be the best hair product out there. I’ve tried many, both cheap and expensive. This one is expensive, but if you value your hair and can afford it, try this out. It’s great.”
Vegamour GRO Revitalizing Shampoo
Pros
- Increases hair density
- Color Safe
Cons
- Must use often to see results
GRO Revitalizing Shampoo transforms dull hair into a healthy shine. It minimizes shedding and increases the appearance of density. Safe for everyday use, it gives hair the body it desires.
Size: 8 fl oz
Vegamour star rating: 4.7/5 stars
An ELLE editor says: “As you can tell, I enjoy using strengthening shampoos. This formula is one of the most effective, and I quickly notice changes in my hair shedding in just a few washes. It may be pricey, but your hair is worth it.” —Danielle James
OUAI OUAI Fine Hair Shampoo
Pros
- Dry hair approved
- Cruelty free
- Perfect for all hair types
Cons
- Overpowering floral scent
If you need a holy grail staple in your beauty cabinet, the Ouai Fine Hair Shampoo should be one of them. This color-safe shampoo makes your four or five-day-old hair feel clean while providing hydration to your curls and coils. The main ingredient, Chia Seed Oil, helps increase the appearance of thickness and volume. The Ouai Fine Hair Shampoo pretty much does it all.
Size: 10 fl oz
Sephora star rating: 4.7/5 stars
A Sephora reviewer says: “I’ve tried almost all of the top shampoo/conditioners that Sephora offers and this has by far been the best for my fine hair! I’ve gotten so many compliments on how healthy my hair looks since I started using it. Beautiful scent and formula. Holy grail for sure!!”
Can biotin in shampoo really work to regrow hair or prevent hair loss?
Using biotin shampoo alone isn’t nearly as effective as having a full-fledged, biotin-rich routine. “Some patients have reported hair growth and stronger hair, along with reduced hair loss, but shampoos as a delivery method for ingredients may not be ideal since they are slathered onto the scalp and hair and rinsed off shortly afterward,” Dr. Tiffany Libby explains. After shampoo and conditioning, Dr. Libby advises using other topical biotin products elsewhere in your routine. Enter: hair serums.
“If there is interest in using topical biotin, I would recommend a leave-on daily treatment, like SpoiledChild A22 Biotin Boost Hair + Scalp Serum, formulated with rosemary oil, caffeine, and niacinamide, and has demonstrated hair growth benefits. It is an elegant, lightweight formulation in an easy-to-use spray that is fast-absorbing and residue-free, and does not weigh hair down while it is working on the scalp,” she explains.
How often can you use biotin shampoo?
“You can use a biotin shampoo as often as you need to shampoo your hair,” Dr. Libby says.
What to look for in the best biotin shampoos?
While biotin has been known for encouraging growth, Dr. Libby advises looking for products that contain “other ingredients that help cleanse the scalp and remove residue, and ingredients that support hair growth like caffeine and rosemary oil, and prevent hair loss like saw palmetto extract,” she says.
Meet the expert
Dr. Tiffany Libby, NYC-based double board-certified dermatologist who specializes in cosmetic and laser dermatology
Why trust ELLE Beauty?
Nerisha Penrose is the beauty commerce editor at ELLE.com. Since joining ELLE.com in 2017, she has interviewed countless haircare professionals and has personally tested the latest and greatest products across haircare, makeup, and skincare.
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