A Dermatologist Breaks Down Whether Amazon’s Best-Selling Anti-Thinning Hair Shampoo Is Worth The Hype

If you’ve heard rave reviews about an anti-thinning wonder shampoo, you may wonder if the trending Pura D’Or Original Gold Label Anti-Thinning Biotin Shampoo is a miracle worker.

Pura D'Or Original Gold Label Anti-Thinning Biotin Shampoo — $40.00

The shampoo, meant for men and women, is made with ingredients—biotin and a DHT-blocking, loss-reducing herbal blend among them—that purportedly protect your hair from further damage while hydrating the scalp. Pura D’Or is a top-ranked product for fighting hair thinning; more than 20,000 users, from postpartum parents experiencing hair fall to those battling premature balding, have given it an average of 4.3 stars. And at just under $40, the price isn’t too crazy.

So can you shampoo your way back to full hair? Mona Gohara, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New Haven, Connecticut, says that a shampoo can be part of a treatment plan—but that you shouldn’t expect miracles from washing your hair alone. “My theory is that anything you can do to supplement thinning hair is great,” Dr. Gohara says. “There is some soft science that says things like biotin does help.” Biotin, also known as vitamin B7, is said to help stimulate keratin production in hair, as well as increasing the follicle growth. “Vitamin B complexes support hair health,” she says. “If it helps and adds hydration to your hair, from your cuticles to your follicles, it may be beneficial overall.” Still, she adds, it’s not a cure-all for everyone.

Addressing thinning hair is a complicated (and sometimes emotional) process, which is why it’s crucial to talk to a dermatologist if you’re noticing changes in your hair. A treatment plan may involve a special shampoo like this one, adding vitamins to your diet, or having in-office treatments. “Over-the-counter supplements that have different antioxidants to support health are a good way to go, as well as other topical solutions like Rogaine that can support hair growth,” says Dr. Gohara. “And of course, there are procedures available that can help.”

The bottom line? If this shampoo is working for you, lather away—but stay open-minded to other options. “As it pertains to hair health and hair thinning, there are so many options,” Dr. Gohara says. “It really is just a matter of what fits best with your scenario and budget.”

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