Hair fall is a normal yet annoying part of our hair's life cycle. This means you should not run for the hills when you see some shedding when you are showering. What is a cause for concern, though, is when hair fall is excessive and does not grow back. Did you know that although hair loss can result from genetics, it could also be due to stress?
That is why we have prepared a buying guide to help you understand and treat hair loss - with some comments and tips from dermatologist Dr. Katrina Erika Habaluyas Luz! We have also included our top 10 best anti-hair fall shampoos to give you luscious locks.
Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz is the face behind Ask Your Derma. She is a board-certified dermatologist in Metro Manila. She is also an educator and digital creator on all things skin, hair, and nails. She is a Diplomate of the Philippine Dermatological Society and offers online video consultations. You can also catch her on her Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube channel.
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
The products and services listed are ranked independently by the editorial team based on the points mentioned in our thoroughly researched buying guide (as of 01-16-2023).
Table of Contents
Let’s get things straight; hair fall is normal. You can lose up to an average of 100 hair strands a day because hair naturally renews itself. You need not panic when you see hair strands down the drain when taking a shower.
Hair fall could be genetic; this means you are already inclined to hair loss, especially as you age. You will notice a significant amount of decrease in your hair’s volume. Another reason for hair loss is your body’s reaction to certain factors.
Did you know that stress can actually trigger your hair to fall out? It might cause dandruff too! Hormonal imbalance is also a factor, as well as certain vitamin deficiencies. However, what is scary is when your hair doesn’t grow back. To be sure, you ought to consult with a doctor about this to make sure you aren't suffering from a serious condition.
In truth, hair fall is a normal process. We naturally shed less than 100 hairs per day. However, when it becomes excessive, it can definitely become a distressing concern.
There are so many causes of hair fall from genetic, infectious, nutritional, hormonal, autoimmune, or even environmental causes. Definitely, pay a visit to your board-certified dermatologist of choice to help shed light on the possible cause of your hair fall and how to best address it.
In choosing your shampoo, it is important to take note of ingredients that would be beneficial for promoting healthy hair and not detrimental to it.
Dandruff does not directly cause your hair to fall. However, as you are well aware, dandruff is very itchy. This causes you to start scratching at your scalp in order to relieve the itchiness.
It is the scratching that can cause damage to your scalp and hair follicles and lead to hair loss. Ketoconazole is an antifungal and anti-inflammatory ingredient that can be used to treat dandruff and reduce hair loss. You can purchase over-the-counter shampoos that contain about 1-2% Ketoconazole.
If you're experiencing flaking or itching on the scalp, it's possible that you have dandruff. And while this alone doesn't directly cause hair fall, it can be particularly distressing.
Definitely, a consult with your board-certified dermatologist would be important so they can address this concern properly. Typically, shampoos with ingredients such as Ketoconazole in lower concentrations are available as over-the-counter preparations that can help treat dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis. Other ingredients that you can look for include zinc pyrithione and selenium sulfide.
Check your shampoo if it contains caffeine, as it is said to help stimulate hair growth. It helps increase blood circulation to your scalp and promote hair growth. It also helps block the effects of DHT, a hormone that causes hair loss.
Caffeine also helps slow down hair loss progression, making it a good preventive measure for further preventing your hair from thinning.
Caffeine is one ingredient that has been posited to have hair fortifying abilities, hence, its incorporation into a lot of new shampoos and hair products. A couple of studies confirm that caffeine counters the miniaturization of the hair follicle and counteracts the suppressive effects of testosterone on hair growth. More studies, however, need to delve into identifying the proper formulations of caffeine to ensure efficacy against hair loss.
Saw palmetto is an extract from palm tree berries and it has been used to balance hormone levels and prevent hair loss. It is said to reduce the hormone DHT, which causes hair loss in men and alopecia in women. Aloe vera on the other hand has calming and anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe your scalp and stimulate hair follicles to promote hair growth.
The purified extract of saw palmetto is thought to be similar to finasteride and is thought to decrease dihydrotestosterone uptake by the hair follicle, hence, its proposed use in baldness. Studies for topical application or incorporation into hair products have yet to be done.
As for aloe vera, it has been incorporated in hair products more for its anti-inflammatory properties. The enzyme content of aloe vera prevents hair loss more by protecting the scalp from disease.
Biotin or B7 is one of the types of B vitamins that are also found in food such as eggs, fish, and dairy products. A biotin deficiency can cause hair thinning or hair loss as well as brittle nails.
This vitamin is also known as hair and skin vitamins as it boosts their health. Biotin can improve hair regrowth and contribute to overall hair quality, so a biotin shampoo can increase your body’s level of the vitamin without having to take supplements.
Biotin, a water-soluble vitamin, has been associated with keratin production, hence, its contribution to healthy hair growth. Deficiency in biotin has been associated with conditions such as uncombable hair syndrome, where supplementation of biotin has been beneficial. However, the topical use of products incorporated with biotin has yet to be studied in clinical trials to really assess its efficacy.
Foaming agents such as sulfates help produce a nice lather for your shampoo, but it strips your hair of essential oils as well as protein, which is essential for hair health and growth. If you have a sensitive scalp, you can opt for sulfate-free shampoo formulas instead, in order to have a gentle cleanse on your scalp that won't aggravate hair loss.
Shampoos labeled sulfate-free are more common nowadays. Sulfates (e.g. sodium lauryl sulfate) are a class of anionic surfactants (molecules that remove sebum and dirt from your hair).
Now, anionic surfactants strongly remove dirt and sebum from hair and the scalp, but they increase the net negative charge of hair after rinsing and this may leave the hair dry. However, you still have to be careful of other ingredients, as other anionic sulfate-free surfactants can leave the hair dry as well.
Try to pick shampoos that don’t contain fragrances and artificial colors, which could be potential irritants. These might also cause your scalp to itch and flake. Avoid parabens, which act as preservatives meant to prolong your product’s shelf life, as these could cause hormonal issues and might trigger hair loss.
Another thing to avoid are oils such as lanolin, petrolatum, and mineral oil. Normally, these ingredients are emollients, good for softening skin and locking in moisture. But in this case, it could prevent natural oils from being absorbed.
As with starting any new ingredient for the skin, the same care should be done for products applied to the scalp and hair. Sensitivity to different ingredients would vary significantly depending on each individual person.
It's always best to try a product out, test it, and listen to your skin's response. Remember, products applied to their hair can reach the scalp, hairline, ears, and even neck. So make sure to check these areas for signs of irritation.
From ₱475.68
Here is a shampoo that is packed with all the good stuff for your hair. It is formulated with biotin, which is beneficial for your hair and nail health. It also contains saw palmetto, another ingredient touted for preventing hair loss. Quinoa protein contains a high concentration of protein, which strengthens and moisturizes hair.
You get a concoction that can help build body in fine and thinning hair, which means no more limp locks! You get clean and nourished hair from root to tip. You’ll be pleased to know that their product does not contain sulfates, synthetic colors, and fragrances, as well as phthalates. You only get natural goodness!
From ₱2,000
Looking for predominantly natural ingredients in your shampoo? Aveda’s shampoo has 94% naturally derived ingredients. It is also free from parabens, mineral oil, and formaldehyde. Their shampoo uses Wintergreen-derived salicylic acid to gently exfoliate and nourish your scalp by removing build-up that can clog pores.
A blend of herbs such as ginseng and turmeric can help invigorate your scalp. The result is the ideal foundation for thicker and fuller hair. The product has been noted to reduce hair loss by 53%, so you have luscious and thick hair. The formula could also be used by color-treated hair, too, as it does not contain sulfates.
From ₱180
The good thing about shampoo bars is that you can use it to the very last drop, or should we say piece? The whole bar is consumable, so you don’t have to worry about leaving any residue behind. Ecobar’s product is infused with gugo, which is a notable ingredient known for encouraging hair growth.
If your scalp is easily irritated, the rosemary can help calm it and nourish hair follicles as well. Those suffering from dandruff, eczema, or dermatitis can thank the added patchouli for helping soothe scalp issues. Fun fact, you could opt to buy the bar without its cardboard packaging to reduce waste.
From ₱599
This is ideal if you’re looking for something that packs a little more punch in terms of its ingredients. It features PhytoCellTec Argan Stem Cells, which helps skin stem cells maintain their characteristics and the capacity to build new tissues. This means it will help your scalp’s natural repair process.
This shampoo will stimulate cell renewal and protect against chronological aging, which is perfect if you already have thinning hair. It works to unblock your hair follicles and remove excess sebum. It also removes bacteria that contribute to hair loss, so you get nourished and fuller-looking hair.
From ₱1,090
Has your hair been feeling lifeless lately? Jumpstart it with this energizing shampoo from Davines. It is formulated with caffeine phytoceuticals, which are plant compounds that have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-free radical properties. This helps to stimulate your scalp’s cell renewal.
The result is an improvement in your hair’s elasticity as well as prevention of hair loss. It gives a balancing effect on your scalp by cleansing it and giving it a sensation of energy. On the other hand, it has a moisturizing effect on your hair strands. Gently massage onto your hair and allow it to settle in for a few minutes.
From ₱1,150
Say goodbye to itching and flaking scalp with Nizoral’s anti-dandruff shampoo. Although, you must remember that dandruff is not directly responsible for hair fall per se. Its side effects are the culprit, as constant scratching can damage your hair follicles and make your hair fall out.
This shampoo contains 1% ketoconazole, which is an anti-fungal ingredient that binds to your hair’s protein to kill dandruff and reduce the risk of hair fall. It is rather potent, as it could also be used to treat athlete’s foot and ringworm. Keep in mind that the recommended use is about 2 times a week in between your regular shampoos.
From ₱1,900
They say prevention is better than cure. What better way to prevent further hair fall than to start at the root? This is great if you have noticed your hair is not as full as it used to be. Nioxin’s shampoo has been credited as a cult favorite for thinning hair. It is formulated with botanicals, vitamins, and amino acids to detoxify the scalp.
It can remove product build-up, traces pollutants, and toxins with white tea extract and peppermint. This will clear the path for your hair follicles without stripping it of necessary oils. The result will be a primed scalp in optimum conditions. This makes it easier for your hair to grow healthy and shiny.
From ₱616.55
Want to have thicker and fuller hair? Now you can with OGX’s shampoo, which aims to thicken and texturize your hair with just one wash. Their shampoo is infused with biotin, which assists in hair regrowth and improves its overall quality. This includes making it shinier and thicker.
It also contains collagen, which is a protein that gives skin strength and elasticity. It helps repair damaged hair as it is a natural antioxidant. If your hair is prone to breakage, their formula includes hydrolyzed wheat protein. This strengthens your hair from the inside and keeps your hair elastic, preventing breakage.
From ₱320
Shampoo bars also have variations against hair fall like this shea butter bar from Beach Born. Fans may have heard of their sea salt spray and purple conditioner, but they do make a mean shampoo bar too. Theirs is formulated with sweet orange to stimulate collagen production and improve blood flow.
In case you have had a rough day, it contains lavender and eucalyptus to condition, nourish, and soothe the scalp after a long day. It is also helpful against dandruff too. You can get their shampoo bar naked, which is without packaging or in a little tin to make it convenient to bring for travel.
From ₱1,750
Kerastase offers salon-quality products, and its strengthening shampoo is no exception. It aims to boost strong hair growth starting from your roots, so it is not just the hair strands that are nourished. Their shampoo is formulated with Creatinine R, an active complex that boosts your hair’s resilience and elasticity.
It also contains Taurine, an amino acid that can help increase your hair’s keratin level and strengthen it as well. As a result, your scalp is stimulated while reinforcing your hair strands to prevent split ends and breakage. This way, you can get all-around nourishment for your hair.
Still have some questions on your mind? Let Dr. Katrina answer them! Read on below to find out more.
The frequency of use of an anti-hair fall shampoo would definitely depend on the ingredient incorporated in it. Not to mention, it would also depend on the cause and gravity of hair fall.
For patients with significant hair fall, an anti-hair fall shampoo may be more of an add-on rather than the main treatment. Guided treatment by your dermatologist is key as it would depend on each individual.
How fast you would be able to see results would also be very individualized. A lot of factors will come into play when it comes to seeing a noticeable difference in hair growth. Usually, in clinical trials for hair growth products they typically observe for hair growth, comparing 6- and 12-week durations of treatment.
Keep your crowning glory healthy inside and out! Check out our top picks to make your hair stronger than ever.
Author: Justine Cuizon
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
When you purchase products mentioned in the article, part of the sales may be returned to mybest.
The descriptions of each product is referenced from the content available from the manufacturer, e-commerce sites etc.
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