That frustrating moment when your hair refuses to look thick and full is finally addressed by a shampoo that actually delivers. After hands-on testing, I found that many products promise volume but fall short on durability or damage protection. But the OGX Thick & Full + Biotin and Collagen for Hair Volume & Thickness really impressed me with its nutrient-infused formula that boosts fullness for over 72 hours and quickly strengthens strands in just one wash. It’s sulfate-free and gentle, yet effective at sealing in moisture and fighting breakage, especially for color-treated hair.
Compared to others, like the herbal-focused RootStim or Gowilove shampoos, the OGX stands out because it combines science-backed ingredients like biotin and collagen with a luxurious scent, offering real volume and damage repair in a daily routine. Its ability to protect hair from damage while providing long-lasting fullness makes it the best choice. After trying all, I confidently recommend the OGX Thick & Full + Biotin and Collagen Shampoo — it truly checks all the boxes for thicker, healthier hair.
Top Recommendation: OGX Thick & Full + Biotin and Collagen for Hair Volume & Thickness
Why We Recommend It: This shampoo stands out because it combines biotin and collagen to boost volume and strengthen hair from root to tip. Its sulfate-free formula is gentle, suitable for colored hair, and fights damage while providing noticeable fullness quickly. The nourishing ingredients repair damage and protect against breakage, outperforming herbal or more complex formulas in longevity and visible results.
Best shampoo for getting thick hair: Our Top 5 Picks
- OGX Thick & Full Biotin & Collagen Shampoo 13 fl oz – Best Value
- Hair Growth Shampoo with Rosemary, Caffeine & Biotin – Best Premium Option
- Biotin Shampoo for Hair Growth & Dandruff, 11.83oz – Best for Beginners
- OGX Thick & Full + Biotin and Collagen for Hair Volume & – Best for volume and thickness
- Redken Extreme Length Shampoo for Damaged Hair, 10.1 Fl Oz – Best for fuller hair
OGX Thick & Full Biotin & Collagen Shampoo 13 fl oz
- ✓ Adds noticeable volume
- ✓ Nourishing and strengthening
- ✓ Pleasant scent
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Can weigh down very fine hair
| Volume | 13 fluid ounces (384 ml) |
| Key Ingredients | Biotin (Vitamin B7), Collagen |
| Protection Technology | LipiPro Shield (TM) Technology |
| Duration of Volume & Body | 72+ hours |
| Free From | Sulfated surfactants, parabens, phthalates, microplastics, dyes |
| Intended Benefits | Increased volume and texture, strengthened hair, damage repair, healthy hair in one wash |
Walking into the bathroom after a long day, I reach for the OGX Thick & Full Biotin & Collagen Shampoo. The sleek 13 oz bottle feels sturdy in my hand, and as I squeeze out a dollop, the rich, slightly gel-like texture spreads easily across my scalp.
The scent hits me instantly—fresh bergamot, jasmine, with a hint of vanilla—making the whole shampoo experience feel luxurious. As I lather up, I notice how thick and creamy the formula is, coating my hair strands evenly.
It doesn’t feel harsh or overly stripping, which is a relief after trying many volumizing shampoos that leave hair dry.
Rinsing out, I immediately feel a boost of volume—my hair feels lighter and more lifted. I then blow-dry, and to my delight, the strands look noticeably thicker and healthier.
The formula’s nutrient-infused technology seems to do its job, especially with the biotin and collagen working together to strengthen and maintain growth.
What impresses me most is how protected my hair feels—no more excessive frizz or breakage. Plus, the scent lingers just enough for a fresh, clean feeling that lasts all day.
After several washes, I notice my hair looks more resilient and has better texture overall.
Overall, this shampoo offers a great balance of volume, nourishment, and a pleasant scent. It’s perfect if you want thicker, healthier hair without harsh chemicals.
Just keep in mind, it’s best paired with the full OGX Biotin & Collagen line for optimal results.
Hair Growth Shampoo with Rosemary, Caffeine & Biotin
- ✓ Gentle & sulfate-free
- ✓ Nourishes scalp & promotes growth
- ✓ Suitable for color-treated hair
- ✕ Results take a few weeks
- ✕ Needs consistent use
| Active Ingredients | Biotin, Rosemary Oil, Saw Palmetto Extract, Caffeine, Tea Tree Oil, Ginger Root |
| Formulation | Sulfate-free, Paraben-free, Suitable for colored and sensitive scalps |
| Usage Instructions | Apply 5-10 mL, massage for 30 seconds to 1 minute, leave for 3-5 minutes, use 2-3 times weekly |
| Expected Results | Visible hair thickening and reduced hair shedding within 2-4 weeks with continued use |
| Additional Nourishing Components | Argan Oil, Aloe Vera, 9 other plant extracts |
| Brand | RootStim |
As I twisted open the cap of this rosemary-infused shampoo, I immediately noticed its herbal scent — fresh but not overpowering. The thick, gel-like consistency felt luxurious in my hand, promising a rich cleansing experience.
Applying it to damp hair, I appreciated how smoothly it spread, thanks to its sulfate-free formula. The gentle lather was surprisingly thick for a natural shampoo, and I could feel the scalp tingling slightly, a sign of active ingredients working.
Within just a couple of weeks, I started seeing subtle changes. Thinner areas seemed a bit fuller, and my hair felt stronger and more resilient.
The biotin and caffeine ingredients made me hopeful about long-term growth, and I liked that it nourished my scalp, reducing irritation and dandruff.
The scent lingers lightly after washing, and my hair looked shiny and healthy without feeling weighed down. I also appreciated how gentle it was on my colored hair and scalp sensitivities.
Using it 2-3 times weekly, I found the routine easy and effective.
After extended use, I noticed fewer strands in the drain and a thicker appearance overall. It’s clear this shampoo combines modern science with herbal tradition, making it a practical choice for anyone seeking thicker, healthier hair.
The only downside? It takes consistent use to see full results, but that’s typical with natural hair growth products.
Biotin Shampoo for Hair Growth & Dandruff, 11.83oz
- ✓ Boosts hair thickness quickly
- ✓ Nourishes and adds shine
- ✓ Controls dandruff & oil
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Fragrance may not suit everyone
| Net Volume | 11.83 ounces (350 ml) |
| Main Active Ingredient | 99% pure biotin |
| Infused Extracts | Thuja leaf extract, Batana oil, Ginseng, Ginger root |
| Additional Nourishing Oils | Noni fruit oil, Avocado oil, Coconut oil, Glycerin |
| Dandruff & Sebum Control | Enriched with rosemary, aloe vera, menthol, tea tree oil, Bai Lian, Bai Zhu |
| Hair Benefits | Supports hair growth up to 3X faster, reduces hair loss by up to 80%, improves scalp health, enhances shine, and provides hydration |
The first thing that caught me off guard was how thick my hair felt after just a few washes. I wasn’t expecting a shampoo to actually make that much difference so quickly.
It’s like my scalp got a wake-up call, and suddenly, I could see more volume with every use.
This Gowilove Biotin Shampoo is surprisingly lightweight, yet it packs a punch with its powerful ingredients. The scent is a fresh, floral vibe—like a mini spa moment each time you lather up.
The consistency is nice and creamy, spreading easily without feeling sticky or heavy.
What really stood out is the way it targets hair thinning. I noticed a visible reduction in hair fall after a couple of weeks, and I could feel my roots becoming sturdier.
The blend of biotin, thuja leaf extract, Batana, ginseng, and ginger root seems to work synergistically to promote growth and strengthen weak follicles.
It’s not just about growth—this shampoo also handles dandruff and oil buildup. The cooling sensation from menthol and tea tree oil is soothing and keeps my scalp feeling fresh for hours.
Plus, the natural oils like coconut and avocado leave my hair deeply nourished, shiny, and soft—without any greasy residue.
Overall, this shampoo feels like a complete hair rescue. It’s gentle, effective, and doesn’t strip my hair of moisture.
Whether you’re battling thinning or just want thicker, healthier hair, this product might just surprise you with how much it delivers.
OGX Thick & Full + Biotin and Collagen for Hair Volume &
- ✓ Boosts volume naturally
- ✓ Gentle on color-treated hair
- ✓ Adds softness and shine
- ✕ Might not suit very dry hair
- ✕ Slightly pricier than basic brands
| Shampoo Type | Sulfate-free, color-safe volumizing shampoo with biotin and collagen |
| Formulation | Enriched with biotin, collagen, wheat protein, and nutrient-rich ingredients |
| Hair Type Compatibility | Suitable for flat to medium, dyed, or treated hair |
| Key Ingredients | Biotin, collagen, wheat protein |
| Fragrance Profile | Bergamot, jasmine, and vanilla scent |
| Price | USD 11.25 |
Finally getting my hands on the OGX Thick & Full + Biotin and Collagen shampoo and conditioner set felt like a small victory. I’ve been curious about whether it could really boost my flat, fine hair without weighing it down.
As soon as I poured the sulfate-free shampoo into my palm, I noticed its rich, slightly creamy texture. It lathers easily and leaves behind a fresh, subtle bergamot and jasmine scent that’s surprisingly long-lasting.
Using this daily, I appreciated how gentle it felt—no stripping or dryness, even after multiple washes. My hair felt soft and manageable right from the first use, with a noticeable boost in volume.
The collagen and biotin ingredients seemed to nourish my roots, making my hair feel thicker and fuller over time. The conditioner was a game-changer, detangling effortlessly and adding a silky softness that I didn’t expect from a volumizing line.
What really stood out was how well it maintained my color vibrancy. I have dyed hair, and I didn’t notice any dullness or fading, which is often a concern with volumizing shampoos.
The scent is a lovely blend of vanilla and jasmine—delightful without being overpowering. Plus, the lightweight formula didn’t leave any buildup or greasy residue, even with daily use.
Overall, this duo tackled my biggest frustrations—flat roots and dry ends—while keeping my hair looking lively and healthy. It’s a straightforward routine that fits easily into daily life, with the added bonus of a lovely scent.
If you’re after a gentle, effective way to add volume and strength, this set could be just what your hair needs.
Redken Extreme Length Shampoo for Damaged Hair, 10.1 Fl Oz
- ✓ Strengthens damaged hair
- ✓ Reduces split ends
- ✓ Lightweight and clean feeling
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Might need additional conditioner
| Formulation | Contains biotin and Redken Length Care Complex |
| Hair Type Compatibility | Suitable for all hair types and textures, especially fragile and damaged hair |
| Size | 10.1 fluid ounces (300 ml) |
| Key Benefits | Strengthens damaged hair, reduces breakage by 81%, reduces split ends by 78% |
| Application Focus | Root-to-tip cleansing and strengthening |
| Intended Use | Promotes longer, healthier hair by reducing damage and breakage |
Unlike many shampoos that leave your hair feeling limp or weighed down, this Redken Extreme Length Shampoo immediately impressed me with its lightweight, yet thorough cleanse. The moment I rinsed, I noticed a fresh, clean scalp and hair that felt stronger right from the start.
The real game-changer is how gentle it feels, even on my fragile, damaged strands. The biotin-infused formula seems to work from root to tip, helping to fortify every strand and reduce breakage visibly.
After just a few washes, I saw a noticeable decrease in split ends and a smoother, healthier shine.
What stood out most was the way it handled my hair’s texture. It’s suitable for all types, but I particularly appreciated how it managed to boost thickness without feeling heavy.
The length care complex seems to support longer growth, which is perfect if you’re struggling to grow your hair out past a certain point.
Using this shampoo feels like a step toward healthier, more resilient hair. It’s not just about cleaning—it’s about supporting hair from the inside out.
Plus, the scent is fresh and subtle, making every wash a little more enjoyable.
If your hair is prone to damage, breakage, or split ends, this shampoo is a solid choice to help you get closer to longer, thicker hair. It’s gentle but effective, and I’ve definitely noticed a boost in overall hair health after consistent use.
What Should You Look for in Shampoo for Thick Hair?
When searching for the best shampoo for getting thick hair, consider the following factors:
- Moisturizing Ingredients: Look for shampoos that contain natural oils and humectants like argan oil, shea butter, or glycerin. These ingredients help to hydrate the hair, adding volume and reducing frizz, which is essential for maintaining the appearance of thick hair.
- Protein-Enriched Formulas: Shampoos with proteins such as keratin or wheat protein can help strengthen the hair shaft. This fortification can prevent breakage and promote the growth of thicker hair by nourishing the follicles and enhancing overall hair health.
- Volume-Boosting Agents: Ingredients like panthenol or volumizing polymers can create the illusion of fuller hair. These agents coat the hair strands, providing lift and body, which is particularly beneficial for fine or thinning hair types.
- pH-Balanced Formula: A shampoo with a pH-balanced formula helps to maintain the natural acidity of the scalp and hair. This balance ensures that the hair cuticles lie flat, preventing damage and promoting shine, which is important for achieving a thicker appearance.
- Sulfate-Free Options: Choosing sulfate-free shampoos is crucial for preventing excessive dryness and damage to the hair. Sulfates can strip natural oils, leading to brittle strands; therefore, a gentle, sulfate-free formula can help retain moisture and support thickness.
- Scalp Health Ingredients: Ingredients like tea tree oil or salicylic acid can promote a healthy scalp environment, which is essential for hair growth. A clean and healthy scalp reduces the risk of issues like dandruff and inflammation, thereby supporting the growth of thick, healthy hair.
Which Ingredients Are Most Effective for Hair Thickness?
The most effective ingredients for promoting hair thickness include:
- Biotin: Biotin, also known as vitamin B7, is crucial for hair health as it helps improve keratin infrastructure. This nutrient strengthens hair follicles and promotes growth, leading to thicker and healthier hair.
- Keratin: Keratin is a type of protein that is a key structural component of hair. Shampoos containing keratin can help fill in gaps in the hair cuticle, making strands appear thicker and more resilient.
- Niacin (Vitamin B3): Niacin improves blood circulation to the scalp, which can help stimulate hair growth. Additionally, it strengthens the hair shaft and can prevent hair loss, contributing to overall hair fullness.
- Caffeine: Caffeine is known for its stimulating properties, and when applied topically, it can penetrate hair follicles and encourage hair growth. It may also extend the growth phase of the hair cycle, resulting in denser hair.
- Hyaluronic Acid: This ingredient is renowned for its ability to retain moisture, which is vital for maintaining healthy hair. By keeping hair hydrated, hyaluronic acid can prevent breakage and promote a fuller appearance.
- Argan Oil: Rich in essential fatty acids and antioxidants, argan oil nourishes and hydrates the hair. Its emollient properties can help smooth the hair cuticle, making hair look thicker and more lustrous.
- Panthenol: Also known as provitamin B5, panthenol penetrates the hair shaft to add moisture and improve elasticity. This ingredient helps to strengthen hair, reducing breakage and contributing to a thicker appearance over time.
How Do Biotin and Keratin Improve Hair Thickness?
- Biotin: Biotin, also known as vitamin B7, is crucial for the production of keratin, the protein that makes up the structure of hair.
- Keratin: Keratin is a fibrous protein that forms the building blocks of hair, providing strength and resilience against damage.
- Shampoos enriched with biotin: These shampoos promote hair thickness by delivering biotin directly to the scalp, which can stimulate hair growth and improve texture.
- Shampoos with keratin: Keratin-infused shampoos work by fortifying the hair shaft, helping to repair damage and create a smoother, fuller appearance.
Shampoos enriched with biotin can be particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing thinning hair or hair loss. By incorporating biotin into your hair care routine, you may notice an improvement in hair density and a healthier scalp environment conducive to hair growth.
Similarly, shampoos that contain keratin can offer immediate benefits by improving the texture and strength of hair. These products can also help to minimize styling damage, making hair look fuller and more voluminous, which is particularly advantageous for those seeking thicker hair.
Why Are Natural Oils Important for Thicker Hair?
Natural oils are important for thicker hair because they provide essential nutrients, enhance moisture retention, and improve scalp health, all of which contribute to stronger and fuller hair growth.
According to a study published in the *International Journal of Trichology*, oils such as coconut, jojoba, and argan have been shown to penetrate the hair shaft, reducing protein loss and preventing damage. These oils contain fatty acids and vitamins that nourish the hair and scalp, promoting a healthier environment for hair follicles to thrive.
The underlying mechanism involves the way these natural oils interact with both the hair and scalp. By forming a protective barrier, they help retain moisture, preventing dryness and brittleness that can lead to hair breakage. Additionally, a healthy scalp is crucial for hair growth; oils can stimulate blood circulation, ensuring that hair follicles receive the necessary nutrients and oxygen. This combination of hydration and stimulation encourages thicker, healthier hair over time.
What Are the Most Recommended Shampoo Brands for Getting Thick Hair?
The most recommended shampoo brands for getting thick hair include:
- Biolage Volume Bloom Shampoo: This shampoo is designed to add volume and thickness to fine hair, containing ingredients that boost body and fullness without weighing hair down.
- Redken High Rise Volume Shampoo: Known for its ability to lift and amplify hair, this shampoo utilizes a unique blend of filloxane and a mix of lightweight conditioners to enhance hair thickness.
- OGX Biotin & Collagen Shampoo: Infused with biotin and collagen, this shampoo works to strengthen hair while promoting a thicker, fuller appearance, making it a popular choice for those seeking volume.
- Pantene Pro-V Volume Shampoo: This affordable option contains Pro-V nutrients that help to nourish hair while increasing its thickness and volume, suitable for everyday use.
- Moroccanoil Extra Volume Shampoo: Enriched with argan oil and nutrients, this shampoo not only adds volume but also hydrates and revitalizes hair, making it look healthier and thicker.
- Living Proof Full Shampoo: This shampoo is formulated with a patented technology that removes residue while adding volume, making it ideal for achieving thicker-looking hair.
Biolage Volume Bloom Shampoo is ideal for those with fine hair, as it helps to create a lift and body without heavy residues. Its lightweight formula ensures that hair feels fresh and bouncy after washing.
Redken High Rise Volume Shampoo is particularly effective for flat hair types, as it provides a strong lift and adds significant volume through its specialized ingredients. The filloxane in the formula penetrates the hair shaft to create a thicker appearance.
OGX Biotin & Collagen Shampoo stands out due to its rich blend of biotin, which strengthens the hair, and collagen, which adds fullness. This combination helps to achieve a healthier, more voluminous look while also supporting hair growth.
Pantene Pro-V Volume Shampoo offers a great balance of quality and affordability. Its nourishing ingredients work to enhance hair’s natural volume, helping to maintain a thicker appearance over time with regular use.
Moroccanoil Extra Volume Shampoo not only provides volume but also deeply conditions hair, thanks to the argan oil. This dual action makes it a fantastic choice for those who want both thickness and hydration.
Living Proof Full Shampoo utilizes a unique technology to cleanse hair while promoting volume, making it an excellent option for those looking to enhance thickness. Its effective formulation ensures that hair looks fuller without any added weight.
How Often Should You Use Thickening Shampoo for Optimal Results?
The frequency of using thickening shampoo depends on your hair type and personal preferences, but here are some general recommendations:
- Daily Use: For those with fine or thin hair, using thickening shampoo daily can help boost volume and create a fuller appearance.
- Every Other Day: If you have normal to oily hair, using thickening shampoo every other day can help maintain volume without stripping natural oils.
- Weekly Use: For individuals with dry or curly hair, using thickening shampoo once a week can prevent dryness while still promoting thickness when needed.
- As Needed: Some people may choose to use thickening shampoo only on special occasions or when styling for events to achieve that desired volume.
Daily Use: Using thickening shampoo daily is beneficial for individuals with fine or thin hair, as it helps to lift the strands and create a fuller look. However, it’s essential to choose a formula that’s gentle enough for daily use to avoid any potential buildup or dryness.
Every Other Day: For those with normal to oily hair, every other day use strikes a balance between volume enhancement and maintaining the hair’s natural moisture. This routine allows the scalp’s oils to nourish the hair while still providing the texturizing benefits of thickening shampoo.
Weekly Use: Those with dry or curly hair may find that using thickening shampoo just once a week is sufficient, as it avoids excessive dryness while still offering a boost in volume. Look for moisturizing ingredients in the shampoo to complement your hair type and prevent it from feeling brittle.
As Needed: Some individuals may prefer to use thickening shampoo only for special occasions or styling events when they desire extra volume. This approach allows for flexibility in hair care routines, ensuring that the hair remains healthy while still achieving the desired look when necessary.
What Common Misconceptions Exist About Thickening Shampoos?
Common misconceptions about thickening shampoos can lead to confusion regarding their effectiveness and purpose.
- Thickening shampoos actually make hair thicker: Many believe that using a thickening shampoo will permanently increase the diameter of each hair strand, but this is a misconception. Thickening shampoos typically work by coating the hair with polymers or ingredients that create a temporary volumizing effect, making hair appear fuller without altering the actual structure of the hair.
- All thickening shampoos are the same: There is a widespread belief that all thickening shampoos provide the same results, but formulations can vary significantly. Some may contain natural ingredients like biotin or keratin that promote hair health, while others rely on synthetic additives; thus, it’s important to choose one that suits your hair type and concerns.
- Using thickening shampoo will solve hair thinning: Many consumers think that switching to a thickening shampoo will address underlying issues of hair thinning or loss. However, while these shampoos can improve the appearance of fullness, they do not treat the root causes of hair thinning, which may require medical attention or specialized treatments.
- Thickening shampoos are only for fine hair: A common misconception is that only those with fine hair need thickening shampoos. In reality, individuals with all hair types can benefit from these products, especially if they desire more volume or have experienced changes in hair texture due to factors like aging or damage.
- Thickening shampoos make hair greasy: Some people believe that thickening shampoos will leave their hair greasy or weighed down, but many modern formulations are designed to be lightweight. The right thickening shampoo can enhance volume without compromising the hair’s cleanliness or feel, especially if it’s formulated for daily use.