Hormonal imbalances caused by polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can lead to elevated levels of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and other hormones, which, according to Dr. Kecia Gaither, a double-board-certified obstetrician-gynecologist, can "cause follicles to become clogged and Stop producing follicles." New hair. "If you're one of the 6 to 12 percent of people whose ovaries are affected and are looking for relief, the best shampoo for treating PCOS hair loss should contain DHT-blocking and/or anti-dandruff ingredients and be irritant-free. Sex chemicals. They may also contain biotin or keratin to strengthen hair follicles and maximize the appearance of thicker hair, Dr. Gaither and Two Skins. Doctors weigh in on the following recommendations.
Experts
Dr. Kecia Gaither, MD, is dual board certified in obstetrics and gynecology and maternal-fetal medicine and currently serves as director of perinatal services and director of maternal-fetal medicine at NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln Hospital in the Bronx. Additionally, Dr. Gaither is an associate professor of clinical obstetrics and gynecology at Weill Cornell Medical College.
Dr. Kseniya Kohets, MD, MHS, FAAD, is chief of the Division of Cosmetic Dermatology and assistant professor of dermatology at Montefiore-Einstein Hospital. She is a fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology, the American Academy of Dermatologic Surgery, and the American Academy of Laser Medicine and Surgery, and her research focuses on hair restoration.
Dr. Emmanuel Loucas, MD, is chief of dermatology at SINY and assistant professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City, with clinics in Manhattan and Palm Beach.
What to look for when buying a shampoo to treat PCOS hair loss
DHT blocking ingredients
Polycystic ovary syndrome causes elevated levels of androgens, which are hormones such as testosterone and dihydrotestosterone. High levels of these hormones can cause hair follicles to shrink, causing hair to appear thinner and more brittle. Dr. Emmanuel Loucas, chief of dermatology at SINY, recommends that his patients look for shampoos that contain DHT-blocking ingredients like saw palmetto and argan oil. Kseniya Kobets, Ph.D., chief of cosmetic dermatology and assistant professor of dermatology at Montefiore-Einstein, explains that these ingredients block DHT in the scalp by inhibiting the 5-AR enzyme that converts testosterone into the damaging hormone DHT, although he notes that "there are few conclusions about these aspects in humans." Good research is limited.”
But there are other ingredients that have some DHT blocking properties. Dr. Kobetz reports that a recent study showed that “caffeine, melatonin, marine extract, rosemary oil, proanthocyanidins, pumpkin seed oil, and cannabidiol oil have potential in treating androgenic alopecia in men, There may also be hope for female hormonal hair loss. "Researchers have not yet found that any single ingredient in DHT-blocking shampoo can cure hair loss across the board, but labels containing one or more of these ingredients may lead to promising results."
Anti-dandruff
Kobbetts adds that while excess hormones can cause hair loss in PCOS patients, they can also cause excessive scalp oil production. This disrupts the scalp’s microbiome, causing yeast or fungal overgrowth, which can lead to dandruff, inflammation, and clogged hair follicles, leading to further hair loss. To combat dandruff and keep your scalp healthy, Loucas often recommends using an anti-dandruff shampoo containing 1% ketoconazole, a powerful antifungal agent used to combat dandruff. You can also look for anti-dandruff shampoos that contain zinc pyrithione, another antifungal and antibacterial ingredient, Kobbetts adds.
What to avoid using shampoos to treat PCOS hair loss
Shampoo labels can contain many ingredients, but it's important to avoid those that can damage your hair or affect the health of your hair follicles. Kobbetts recommends avoiding parabens, which are "known androgen disruptors and have other environmental concerns." It's also a good idea to avoid synthetic fragrances, sulfates (as they can cause dryness) and silicones that can cause irritation. According to Kobets, silicones not only cause buildup on the scalp, but "can also worsen acne commonly associated with PCOS."
To care for your scalp, restore your hair's microbiome, and get thicker hair, check out the best dermatologist- and OB-GYN recommended shampoos for treating PCOS hair loss on Amazon.
1. A popular shampoo for treating PCOS hair loss
advantage:
- Over 27,000 reviews and an overall rating of 4.3 stars
- Contains 17 possible DHT blocking ingredients
- No sulfates or parabens
- Hypoallergenic, vegan, gluten-free, color safe and cruelty-free
- No sulfates, synthetic fragrances or silicones
shortcoming:
- Some reviewers report that it may dry out hair
This anti-thinning shampoo combines natural extracts and essential nutrients with some of the ingredients Dr. Gaither and Loucas recommend for treating PCOS-related hair loss and has over 16,000 five-star ratings. Among them are tea tree extract, which Dr. Gaither says keeps your scalp clean and infection-free, and argan oil, which keeps your hair nourished. Dr. Loucas recommends using saw palmetto because of its DHT-blocking properties. Pura D'or actually has 17 ingredients that block DHT, like pumpkin seed oil and nettle leaf extract, as well as aloe vera for hydration and vitamin E to lock in moisture.
Not only does it refresh your hair, but the shampoo also reduces breakage and makes your hair look thicker. It's gentle enough for daily use; simply apply to wet hair, leave on for two minutes, then rinse. For best results, Pura D'or recommends three months of use. The shampoo comes in a convenient pump bottle and doesn't lather in the shower because it's sulfate-free. However, if you want a thicker lather, the brand recommends using a few more pumps.
Helpful review: "I am a 37 year old female with PCOS. I started losing my hair around the age of 13 and now have hair that is visible on my scalp. I started researching and found this product and after 3 months For daily use, I highly recommend it. Plus, the hair I already have on my scalp feels stronger and healthier. You really need to try it. People with PCOS produce too much hormone and this product blocks that production. I can't believe my doctor never told me this...it. efficient!!!"
Scent: Lemon (according to reviewers) | Size: 8 layers. No. 16 Oz, Florida.
2. Expert Pick: Anti-Dandruff Shampoo with Ketoconazole
advantage:
- Over 76,000 reviews and an overall rating of 4.6 stars
- Suitable for all hair types
- Contains 1% ketoconazole, an anti-dandruff ingredient
shortcoming:
- It contains synthetic fragrance, and some reviewers report a chemical smell
- Contains sulfates
All the experts recommend an anti-dandruff shampoo for PCOS-related hair loss, and Nizoral tops the list. It contains 1% ketoconazole, which binds to the hair's natural proteins to reduce dandruff, and according to Nizoral, it's the only over-the-counter anti-dandruff shampoo that contains ketoconazole. Dr. Lucas adds that this shampoo can help "fight scalp dryness and inflammation and also help prevent hormonal hair loss."
This shampoo is suitable for all hair types and the brand recommends using it twice a week between regular shampoo and conditioner washes. It does contain synthetic fragrance and some reviewers say it smells like chemicals. Nizoral also has over 57,000 five-star reviews and an overall rating of 4.6 stars, leading one fan to rave: "This is the only thing that helps me relieve the fragile symptoms associated with PCOS."
Helpful review: "I have long-term scalp dermatitis and PCOS, so this combination has caused my hair to thin dramatically over the past few years. After trying Head & Shoulders, charcoal shampoo, biotin shampoo and I bought this shampoo as a last resort after scalp purifying solution. After 2 uses, my scalp became noticeably cleaner, so I continued using it about 2-3 times a week and I noticed after almost a month. New hair is growing on my scalp!"
Scent: None Available | Sizes: 7 ply. No. 11 Oz, Florida. Oz.
3. A beloved shampoo for treating PCOS hair loss
advantage:
- Over 8,000 reviews and an overall rating of 4.7 stars
- Removes dirt, excess oil and residue from scalp
- Dermatologically tested
- Free of silicones and artificial fragrances
shortcoming:
- Contains sulfates
Top-rated Nioxin Cleansing Shampoo helps remove oil, dirt and other residue from the hair and scalp, strengthening hair follicles from damage and breakage. It's part of a three-step system that includes conditioner and treatment to keep hair stronger and add volume, but the shampoo also works on its own. Simply apply to wet hair, gently massage into scalp, lather for one minute, then rinse thoroughly. This shampoo has been dermatologically tested.
Helpful review: "A few months have passed and I can confidently say that my hair looks and feels healthier and thicker. I'm not sure yet if I've actually grown new hair, but it looks like it might There will be. I will definitely continue to use this. ”
Scent: Mint (according to reviewers) | Size: 10.1 liquid. Oz, 16.9 FL Oz, 33.8 Oz, FL.
4. Expert Pick: Rosemary Oil & Biotin Shampoo
advantage:
- Color safe, hypoallergenic, paraben and sulfate free
- Contains DHT blockers Procapil and Capixyl Active Complex as well as natural DHT blockers
shortcoming:
- Contains synthetic fragrances and silicones
Dr. Loucas recommends Shiny Leaf's shampoos because they contain "different botanicals, antioxidants, and vitamins that help maintain the proper environment for a healthy scalp and hair." Additionally, it contains the DHT-blocking Procapil and Capixyl active complex ingredients, biotin to strengthen hair, caffeine to prevent hair loss, and amla officinalis extract to promote a healthy scalp. Simply apply to wet hair, gently massage into scalp, and rinse after two to three minutes. It contains silicones and synthetic fragrances, and reviewers say it doesn't have a strong smell, but it's still pleasant. It's free of parabens, sulfates and phthalates and is safe for color-treated hair.
In terms of results, Shiny Leaf reports that it can take one to three months for people with PCOS hair loss to see stimulation of hair growth, but this depends on your nutrition, weather, and other factors. And if you still don't see results after three months, they recommend trying another shampoo.
Helpful review: “I didn’t expect how fruitful this would be. […] First of all, it smells amazing, my kids (who are weird because they often come up to me and smell me when they hug me) say it smells great It's really nice. Secondly, my hair is thicker again and no part of it looks any less thick than anywhere else when I wear it in a ponytail, you can only see the hair now and not the little strips of scalp. . Now only a few strands of hair fall out in the shower and I no longer always take my long hair out of my clothes. I am so impressed because it works like magic for me. Will lose weight prematurely and have to go get some expensive and damaging hair treatments to fix it I no longer have the same thickness as before and now I have a full head of hair again [.. .]"
Scent: Floral | Size: 16 ply. Oz.
5. Expert Pick: Anti-dandruff shampoo for sensitive skin
advantage:
- Over 9,000 reviews and an overall rating of 4.5 stars
- Suitable for all hair types
- Free of dyes, fragrances, silicones, sulfates, parabens and formaldehyde releasers
- Sensitive skin formula
shortcoming:
- Some reviewers report that it can dry out hair
If you are facing PCOS-related hair loss and have sensitive skin or a history of eczema or allergies, Dr. Kobets recommends using Vanicream Shampoo. This is a hypoallergenic anti-dandruff shampoo containing zinc pyrithione to eliminate bacteria, fungi and microorganisms that cause dry, flaky scalp. Vanicream is pH balanced, suitable for all hair types, and free of gluten, sulfates, silicones, proteins, dyes, parabens and fragrances. Simply apply to wet hair, lather, rinse, repeat and you'll be on your way to a healthier scalp.
Helpful review: "This is a product I would definitely order again, it's completely unscented and easy to use and rinse, perfect for those looking for an unscented, non-irritating, mild shampoo."
Odor: Odorless | Size: 12 ply. Oz.
6. Keratin-Rich Biotin Shampoo
advantage:
- Over 23,000 reviews and an overall rating of 4.3 stars
- Contains biotin to promote hair follicle growth and silk protein to reduce breakage
- Free of sulfates, parabens, phthalates, silicones and cruelty-free
- Rich in keratin, protects hair
shortcoming:
- Contains synthetic fragrance, which some reviewers describe as musky
With over 15,000 five-star ratings, this shampoo is a popular choice for thinning hair. One reviewer with PCOS-related hair loss reported, "After using this shampoo for a few months, I saw so much new growth!" It contains biotin (vitamin B7), which helps promote hair follicle growth, and Silk protein to help prevent breakage and keratin to repair and protect hair strands. The shampoo comes in a large 16-ounce pump bottle and contains no sulfates, parabens, or phthalates. It does contain synthetic fragrance, which some reviewers describe as musky, but one reviewer clarified that it's "just not the fruity/floral scent I'm used to."
Helpful review: “I have PCOS and suffer from mild hair loss and overall dryness. This stuff is so good. I can’t believe how soft and healthy my hair feels after just one wash. The smell is fishy , but anything that achieves this is totally worth it.”
Scent: Musky (according to some reviewers) | Size: 8 layers. Oz, Florida No. 16 Oz.
7. Expert Pick: Shampoos to Restore Your Hair Microbiome
advantage:
- Microbiome-friendly certified by MyMicrobiome
- Includes vegan protein to boost energy, antioxidant-rich Australian wild berries to boost growth, and prebiotics to boost your microbiome
- Contains no parabens, phthalates, hormones, silicones, artificial fragrances or sulfates
shortcoming:
- expensive
Dr. Kobets recommends this root-clarifying shampoo because it restores your hair's microbiome, the collection of microorganisms that support and protect your scalp. This shampoo does this by removing dirt, excess oil and impurities and adding antioxidant-rich Australian wild berries, nourishing vegan protein and microbiome-boosting prebiotics. It’s also certified Microbiome Friendly by MyMicrobiome, ensuring the product won’t disrupt your scalp balance. Nutrafol reported that in a clinical study, 100% of users saw an improvement in scalp dryness and flaking, with an immediate reduction in sebum. To use, place a dollop on your fingertips and massage into your scalp for two minutes, then rinse. If you want more of a treatment, you can add Nutrafol's conditioner and exfoliating mask, but the shampoo itself is also effective in treating PCOS-related hair loss.
Helpful review: "I love this shampoo, it's not overly scented and doesn't irritate my scalp or skin. It cleanses my scalp and hair well without stripping and drying it out."
Smell: Berry | Size: 8 layers. Oz.
8. Expert Pick: Shampoos with Vegan Keratin Alternatives
advantage:
- Free of GMOs, parabens, phthalates, sulfates, silicones, mineral oils, gluten and synthetic fragrances
- Vegan, cruelty-free, color safe
- Contains Vegan Keratin Alternative for Stronger Hair
shortcoming:
- expensive
For a sulfate- and paraben-free shampoo that uses less harsh lathering ingredients to treat PCOS-related hair loss, Dr. Kobets recommends Vegamour GRO Shampoo. It uses microencapsulation technology to deliver phytoactives (nutrients contained in plant extracts) deep into the scalp to combat hair thinning. Plus, it contains Karmatin, a vegan keratin alternative designed to make hair smoother, stronger, and silkier. According to Vegamour, it's been clinically shown to make hair look thicker in as fast as 90 days. Simply apply a quarter amount to wet hair and work through strands, massage into scalp for 60 seconds to allow botanical actives to absorb, then rinse until water runs clear. The shampoo is safe to use every day and a conditioner is also provided.
Helpful review: "I've been battling lifeless hair and some thinning for a few years now. I've tried a lot of different shampoos and conditioners for growth, volume, curl definition, etc. Nothing seems to work Results. Vegamour Revitalizing Shampoo and Conditioner has completely changed the condition of my hair. I finally love my hair again! Plus - I don't feel like I need to wash it every day and my hair looks flat and flat after two days. Greasy and lifeless now I can go for a few days and it still looks great.”
Scent: Citrus | Size: 8 ply. Oz.
9. Expert Pick: pH Balancing Shampoo
advantage:
- Over 5,000 reviews and an overall rating of 4.6 stars
- Contains biotin and soy protein to strengthen hair follicles
- Promotes scalp microbiome stability through pH balancing
- Silicone free
shortcoming:
- Contains sulfates and artificial flavors
When you want to promote a balanced scalp microbiome, Dr. Kobets recommends pH-balanced Redken Shampoo. A pH-balanced shampoo prevents the scalp from producing excess oil, prevents moisture loss, and prevents tangles and breakage while keeping the cuticle sealed. This shampoo is formulated with biotin and soy protein to strengthen hair follicles and extend the length of hair prone to breakage. You can also use conditioners and treatment masks to control PCOS hair loss, but shampoo itself is also effective.
Helpful comment: "I have very dry hair and recently I started seeing it fall out. So I thought to myself that maybe it's just like the plant and dies when it dries out. So I've been trying various types of shampoos and conditioners Shampoo, I have very soft hair to be honest and I have seen a huge difference in my shower drain hair since I started using this shampoo and conditioner so I would recommend it to anyone to give it a try. , and see what it does for your hair.”
Smell: Marshmallow (according to some reviewers) | Size: 10.1 fl. Oz, 33.8 Oz, Florida.
Research references:
Bassin, Salander. Role of 5-alpha reductase in mediating the effects of testosterone (2005). U.S. National Library of Medicine. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT00070733
Bamimore, Mary A., Gupta, Aditya K., Talukder, Mesiba (2022). Natural products for men with androgenic alopecia. Dermatological treatment. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/dth.15323
Cha, Hyung-soo, Cho, Young-hye, Choi, Eun-jung, Jung, Dong-wook, Kim, Yoon-jin, Lee, Jung-kyu, Lee, Sang-yao and Yi, Woo-hyun. Effects of pumpkin seed oil on hair growth in men with androgenic alopecia: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial (2014). Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4017725/
expert:
Kseniya Kobets , MD, MHS, FAAD, Chief of Cosmetic Dermatology and Assistant Professor of Dermatology at Montefiore-Einstein
Kecia Gaither , MD, is a double board certified physician and currently serves as Director of Perinatal Services/Director of Maternal and Fetal Medicine at NYC Health+ Hospital/Lincoln
Emmanuel Loucas , MD, Chief of Dermatology at SINY and Assistant Professor of Dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital, practices in Manhattan and Palm Beach
