Hair 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 favourites 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.”
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Our Picks of the Best 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 favourite scalp serums for hair growth.
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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.
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
Le Sérum Hair Ritual by Sisley, $285 for 60g, SISLEY PARIS.
Simmonds is a fan of this formula due to its caffeine- and Ayurvedic haritaki extract-filled formula. The unique combo detoxes and rebalances the scalp while also promoting growth. The lightweight serum also features creatine and clover flower to reduce hair loss, shedding, and thinning, while offering a volumising boost at the roots. Over time, it even remedies dandruff and creates the ideal scalp environment so your hair can truly thrive.
Our expert says: “This is the wonderchild of this category—using caffeine and Ayurvedic haritaki extract to detox and rehab the scalp and promote growth. It also acts as a volumiser on fine hair. I keep Champo for my clients on the back bar at my studio because I can incorporate wonderful scalp manipulations and massages with a dose that feeds their scalp and relaxes them simultaneously.”—Simmonds
Champo Pitta Growth Serum, $77 for 50g, CHAMPO
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.
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
Sky Organics Rosemary Strong Roots Oil, $23.16 for 60g, SKY ORGANICS
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.
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
Vegamour GRO Hair Serum, $100.30 for 30g, VEGAMOUR
If you have oily hair, incorporating a scalp serum into your routine can be a challenge. Most formulas need to be used daily for results, but it can feel like a you have to choose between luscious hair or greasy roots. This serum saves the day. The fine nozzle dispenses the perfect shot of product that absorbs and dries on contact. Not only does this hydrate scalp, it also strengthens follicles and reduces shedding so your hair has a serious chance of growing long and strong.
An ELLE contributor says: “My main issue with scalp serums is the texture. Several formulas have a thick gel that leaves a greasy trail along my part. This super light serum is invisible from the moment I apply it. The precise applicator disperses the perfect amount of product, and a light massage allows it to absorb immediately. I can’t speak to the growth results yet, but the overall mess-free experience makes me want to stick with it!”—Mary Honkus
Christophe Robin Fortifying Scalp Serum, $83.40 for 50g, CHRISTOPHE ROBIN
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.
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.”
Nulastin Vibrant Scalp Treatment, $172.54 for 50g, NULASTIN
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.
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.”
The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair Density, $42 for 60g, THE ORDINARY
Hydration is what Ouai’s Scalp Serum excels at. A combination of stimulating adaptogens and hyaluronic acid soothes the scalp and deeply moisturises, while peptides rev up hair growth for volumised results. Similar to a lightweight facial serum, this quickly sinks into skin without leaving behind a greasy feeling, so you can feel comfortable using this daily without the fear of making hair appear oily.
An ELLE contributor says: “I’ve never struggled with scalp dryness or dandruff, but I did notice a big difference in my overall hair and scalp health when I used this serum. My hair looked shinier and grew like weeds, likely because I took the time to nourish my scalp. I also always remember to apply it because it’s chic enough to display on my vanity!”—Mary Honkus
Ouai Scalp Serum, $92 for 60g, OUAI
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Meet The Experts
Jackson Simmonds is a New York-based celebrity hairstylist who has been styling, cutting, and colouring 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, moisturise 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.
This article was first seen on ELLE US.