There is a question that many people with diabetes have – can diabetes cause hair loss? In this article, we will explore the potential connection between diabetes and hair loss, including the causes, symptoms, treatments options and more. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of the relationship between the two conditions. Understanding diabetes and hair loss Diabetes is a metabolic condition that affects how the body processes blood sugar. The two main types are type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Poorly managed blood sugar levels can have secondary effects throughout the body. One area that may be impacted […]
The 5 Best Hair Growth Serums of 2025 (and the One Backed by Clinical Testing)
Updated on October 16, 2025
BEFORE
AFTER
TL;DR
If you’re comparing hair growth serums, start with options that are drug‑free, easy to use daily, and supported by credible testing. One formula in our list stood out with third‑party, clinically testing – more on that below.
You’ve seen the influencer favorites and the viral oils. But you’re not here for ‘cool’ trends – you’re here for hard, compelling evidence.
More and more people are turning to serums as everyday, at‑home support for thinning or increased hair shedding – They’re easy to use, simple to apply, affordable, and can slot into an existing routine, making them an ideal for readers who aren’t ready for prescriptions or procedures.
Below, we break down what’s inside the most‑searched serums of 2025, how they’re intended to work to stimulate hair growth, and the practical trade‑offs of each.
What You’ll Learn Here
- •The ingredients that matter (and why delivery to the scalp surface is key)
- •What realistic timelines look like (think 45–150 days of consistent use)
- •Which popular picks are best for budget, subscriptions, and overall value
- •The one serum that surprised us with clinical data, not just marketing claims
Top Picks
Best Overall, Runner‑Up:
MDhair Growth Serum
Best Budget‑Friendly:
Rogaine / Regaine 2% Minoxidil
Best for Hair Thinning:
Moerie Mineral Hair Growth Serum
Best for Fuller-Looking Hair:
Champo Ayurvedic Growth Serum
#1: Scandinavian Biolabs Bio‑Pilixin® Activation Serum (Editor’s Pick)
✓ WHAT WE LIKE
- •Plant‑powered, drug‑free formula centered on Capilia Longa® (turmeric stem‑cell-derived) to support dormant follicles
- •Third‑party, 150‑day clinical testing with reported results: 93% reduced hair loss; 73% increased density (with trichoscopy counts reported to have increased)
- •Gentle daily leave‑in; dropper makes targeted application easy (hairline/temples)
- •Warm/tingling sensation on application may signal increased micro-circulation
- •150‑day money‑back guarantee for a risk‑controlled trial
⚠ WHAT TO CONSIDER
- •Premium price; best value via multi‑month subscription
- •Tingling can feel intense on very sensitive scalps (patch test recommended)
- •Requires consistent daily use for 3–5 months; not intended for late‑stage loss with long‑inactive follicles
Quick Facts
✓
Type: Leave‑in serum
✓
Key Ingredients: Capilia Longa®, Niacinamide, Vanillyl Butyl Ether, Panthenol, Amino acid complex, Zinc PCA
✓
Dosage:Apply ~2 pipettes to scalp daily; massage; leave on ≥ 6 hours
✓
Vegan / Dermatologically Tested:Yes / Patch‑tested under derm control
Let’s be honest: the best routine is the one you’ll actually stick with. Bio‑Pilixin® makes that surprisingly simple: dispense with the dropper, massage in, and go about your day. Users often notice the first sign of progress as less hair in the brush or shower drain within the first month; the brand’s 150‑day study then reports measurable changes in density for many participants by month five. We also appreciate the clear safety call‑outs (warming sensation is normal; discontinue if persistent irritation) and the 150‑day guarantee, which aligns with typical hair‑cycle timelines. If you want a clean, evidence‑minded serum you can use every day, this is our top pick.
Before
After
“I’m 52, and I was getting very thin hair on top, so I decided to use Scandinavian Biolabs. And the results so far are fantastic. Much thicker and much healthier. I’m really happy!”
– Rick, 52
BEST OVERALL, RUNNER‑UP
MDhair Growth Serum (Subscription‑Based System with Medical Backing)
✓ WHAT WE LIKE
- •Doctor‑developed, personalized program that starts with a quiz + scalp photo analysis and provides a tailored kit
- •Ongoing dermatologist chat support and progress tracking
- •Multi‑modal approach (customized topical serum + shampoo + daily supplement; optional marine collagen) for broad support
- •Brand cites third‑party, IRB‑approved clinical data with user‑reported improvements in growth (results vary)
- •Incorporates plant‑based complexes and modern hair‑care actives
⚠ WHAT TO CONSIDER
- •Subscription cost can add up over time; not ideal if you prefer one‑off purchases
- •Requires consistency across multiple steps (topical + ingestible), which may not suit minimal routines
- •Includes ingestibles (supplement/collagen); not a fit for readers seeking topical‑only or those avoiding marine ingredients
- •Exact actives and concentrations vary by user plan; clinical outcomes depend on adherence and starting stage
Quick Facts
✓
Type:Personalized system (customized topical serum + shampoo + supplement; optional collagen)
✓
Key Elements:AI scalp/photo assessment, dermatologist guidance, plant‑based complexes, supportive hair‑care actives
✓
Dosage:Per personalized plan (typically daily serum application; daily supplement; regular shampoo use)
✓
Dermatologist‑Formulated / Research Cited:Yes / Third‑party studies referenced by brand
If you want a hands-on, guided program with personalization and ongoing support, MDhair stands out. The trade‑off is commitment: you’re opting into a recurring system with several moving parts. For shoppers who appreciate structure and check‑ins, it’s a strong runner‑up; for those who prefer a simple, single‑bottle routine, our Editor’s Pick may be the easier daily fit.
Before
After
“I’m happy to share my photos with everyone! I want to inspire more people on how the MDhair products boost my confidence. Thank you for all the wonderful products you provide for customers like me. I’m more than happy and a satisfied product user.”
– Mylene
BEST BUDGET FRIENDLY
Rogaine / Regaine 2% Minoxidil (Affordable but Drug‑Based)
✓ WHAT WE LIKE
- •Long history of use and FDA‑approved active (minoxidil) for hereditary hair loss
- •Widely available with budget‑friendly pricing and generic options
- •Comes in solution and foam formats; straightforward daily routine
- •Evidence supports prolonging the growth phase and increasing hair counts in responders (results vary)
⚠ WHAT TO CONSIDER
- •Drug‑based treatment; some users experience an initial shedding phase i
- •Solution can feel greasy; foam may leave residue depending on hair type
- •Potential side effects include scalp irritation/itching and unwanted facial hair in some users; not typically recommended during pregnancy/breastfeeding without physician guidance
- •Benefits require ongoing use; stopping often leads to a return to baseline over time
- •Not a match for readers specifically seeking drug‑free alternatives
Quick Facts
✓
Type:Leave‑in topical (foam or solution)
✓
Active Ingredient:Minoxidil 2% (women’s formulations)
✓
Dosage:As labeled (commonly 1 mL twice daily for 2% solution; foam per pack directions)
✓
Regulatory Status:OTC drug; FDA‑approved for androgenetic alopecia
If you’re comfortable with a medication‑based route and want a widely studied, lower‑cost option, minoxidil is a practical entry point. If you prefer a drug‑free formula or have a sensitive scalp, consider our Editor’s Pick for a simpler daily routine.
Before
After
“I’ve been using rogaine for three months now and I’ve had noticeable results! I use as suggested in the label and my hair growth has improved significantly after two months of use. The packaging makes it easy to apply and to bring in when traveling too.”
– letip93
BEST FOR HAIR THINNING
Moerie Mineral Hair Growth Serum (Good for Thinning, Botanical Appeal)
✓ WHAT WE LIKE
- •Botanical appeal with trace minerals and fulvic acid as hero ingredients; formula also includes caffeine, biotin, niacinamide, menthol, and amino acids
- •Lightweight dropper makes targeted, daily application easy
- •Many shoppers seek it for early‑stage thinning; users often report a fuller look/feel in the first weeks (results vary)
- •Vegan & cruelty‑free; unscented
⚠ WHAT TO CONSIDER
- •Limited published clinical trials on the finished serum
- •Menthol can create a cooling sensation that may be irritating on sensitive scalps
- •Effects may skew toward cosmetic thickening and scalp conditioning vs. measurable growth
- •Daily consistency required; typical bottle lasts about a month depending on use
Quick Facts
✓
Type:Leave‑in serum (dropper)
✓
Key Ingredients:Fulvic acid + trace minerals/plant extracts, Caffeine, Biotin (B7), Niacinamide (B3), Menthol, Amino acids
✓
Dosage:Apply ~1.5 mL to clean scalp once daily; massage; do not rinse
✓
Vegan / Cruelty‑Free:Yes (brand notes PETA certification)
If you’re prioritizing a botanically leaning, topical‑only option to help hair look and feel thicker in early stages, Moerie is a good pick. But if you want clinical measurements of density and a drug‑free formula with third‑party testing, our Editor’s Pick may be a better match.
“Expensive product but it does what it says it does. Hair grows quicker, feels softer, smells great, looks shinier… Great investment for your hair.”
– Catalina
BEST FOR FULLER-LOOKING HAIR
Champo Ayurvedic Growth Serum (Unique Herbal Formula)
✓ WHAT WE LIKE
- •Ayurvedic‑inspired formula featuring Haritaki fruit extract
- •Lightweight, non‑greasy texture; targeted dropper makes hairline/temple application simple
- •Brand highlights independent user trials (12 weeks) reporting less shedding and visibly thicker/fuller hair
- •Spa‑like experience with essential oils that many users find calming
- •Vegan, cruelty‑free, and UK‑made
⚠ WHAT TO CONSIDER
- •Evidence cited is primarily user trials rather than robust, third‑party clinicals on objective growth metrics
- •Essential oils add fragrance; those with very sensitive scalps may prefer fragrance‑free options
- •Premium price point; some shoppers may prefer formulas with more modern clinical data
Quick Facts
✓
Type:Leave‑in serum (dropper)
✓
Key Ingredients:Haritaki fruit extract (Ayurvedic), Caffeine, Creatine, Biomimetic peptide amino acids, Red clover (biochanin A) complex, Essential oils (geranium, neroli, petitgrain)
✓
Dosage:Apply daily to scalp; massage; do not rinse (per brand directions)
✓
Vegan / Cruelty‑Free:Yes / Yes
If you’re drawn to heritage herbal formulas and enjoy a calming, aromatherapeutic routine, Champo offers a refined experience for early‑stage thinning. If you prefer modern, third‑party clinical evidence over tradition‑led marketing, consider our Editor’s Pick for a data‑forward approach.
“I have tried every top-rated serum there is for thinning at my hairline. From American brands to the most expensive snd higgly rated European brands. I’m not sure any of them ever did anything. I am now about two months in and have used about half of a large size jar of Champo, and finally, I have found the first one to actually work. I am honestly in shock, and oh so grateful. It feels like a genuine miracle. Thanks to everyone who worked on this formula and never gave up.”
– Rachelle
BEST FOR HAIRLINE ACTIVATION
Scandinavian Biolabs: Visible Hairline Changes in ~90 Days
✓ WHAT WE LIKE
- •It targets postpartum temple thinning, early‑stage pattern changes at the hairline, and widening parts
- •Precision dropper makes it easy to focus on the hairline/temples without over‑saturating hair
- •Brand showcases before/after imagery and verified testimonials that mention hairline fill‑in and new “baby hairs” (results vary)
- •Drug‑free, plant‑powered formula with Capilia Longa®, niacinamide, amino acids; vanillyl butyl ether provides a warm sensation that might signal increased micro-circulation
- •Third‑party testing reported many users with reduced shedding by ~45 days and density improvements by ~150 days; 150‑day money‑back guarantee supports consistent use
⚠ WHAT TO CONSIDER
- •“~90 days” refers to user‑reported timelines; the brand’s clinical testing measured density at ~150 days
- •Warm/tingling can feel strong on sensitive hairlines, so patch test and start with a small area
- •Works best for early‑stage thinning when follicles are still active; not intended for long‑inactive areas
- •Daily consistency is key; skipping slows visible changes
Quick Facts
✓
Type:Leave‑in serum
✓
Key Ingredients:Capilia Longa®, Niacinamide, Vanillyl Butyl Ether, Panthenol, Amino acid complex, Zinc PCA
✓
Dosage:Apply ~2 pipettes to scalp daily; massage; leave on ≥ 6 hours
✓
Vegan / Dermatologically Tested:Yes / Patch‑tested under derm control
If your main goal is hairline support (think postpartum temples or an early‑widening part) Bio‑Pilixin® is easy to aim exactly where you need it. The precision dropper + daily consistency make it a strong pick for targeted areas, while the longer 150‑day window sets realistic expectations for density changes.
Before
After
“My biggest takeaway from using the products is that my hair no longer falls out in clumps. My hair loss is gone, and the bottom layer now grows out. My hair is healthier, fuller, and I am more confident.”
– Sophie
BEST SHAMPOO
Scandinavian Biolabs Shampoo Complements Serum for a Full Routine
✓ WHAT WE LIKE
- •Designed as a scalp‑first cleanser to help reduce excess sebum and leave the scalp balance, making it an ideal base before applying the Bio‑Pilixin® serum
- •Formula synergy: caffeine, niacinamide, and an amino acid complex support scalp and strand conditioning; includes Capilia Longa® (turmeric stem‑cell–derived) within the wash step
- •Dermatologically tested, vegan‑leaning formula with a fresh eucalyptus aroma; made in Denmark
- •Works well for daily or frequent washing; users note hair feels cleaner for longer with less heaviness
- •Flexible purchase: one‑time or subscription; pairs with the brand’s Conditioner for a simple two‑step cleanse/condition routine
⚠ WHAT TO CONSIDER
- •A shampoo is a support step, so it helps prep the scalp but isn’t a stand‑alone treatment
- •Eucalyptus/limonene and the cleansing system may be sensitizing for some; do a patch test and rinse promptly if irritation occurs
- •Lower‑lather profile vs. sulfate shampoos; cleansing feel may differ from traditional sudsy formulas
- •Results depend on consistent routine (cleanse → serum → condition as needed)
Quick Facts
✓
Type:Gentle, leave‑on‑then‑rinse shampoo
✓
Key Ingredients:Niacinamide, Caffeine, Amino acid complex, Capilia Longa® (Curcuma longa callus conditioned media), Eucalyptus oil
✓
How to Use:Massage into scalp, rinse; follow with Bio‑Pilixin® Activation Serum (leave on ≥ 6 hours) and Conditioner as desired
✓
Dermatologically Tested / Made in:Yes / Denmark
If you’re building a complete, drug‑free routine, this shampoo is a sensible first step that complements the Bio‑Pilixin® serum. It focuses on scalp cleanliness and strand conditioning so your leave‑in can be applied to a fresh, balanced surface, reinforcing the brand as a comprehensive solution rather than a single‑product quick fix.
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“I’ve tried so many different natural shampoos that are meant to be good for your hair with mixed results. Only the incredibly expensive ones seemed to work okay but didn’t offer the benefits of helping to prevent hair loss. I noticed extreme hair loss and thinning last year after an extremely stressful experience. My scalp had become dry and irritated with red raw flaky patches, and my hair was lifeless and looked like straw. I couldn’t grow it anymore due to the ends splitting and breaking. After using this shampoo coupled with the conditioner and serum my scalp is calm and my hair is fuller with more body. It’s not limp Anymore or heavy. This shampoo doesn’t overly dry or moisture the hair. It just seems to balance it perfectly, and the price is very reasonable for the benefits it offers.”
– Skye Q.
What Actually Matters When Choosing a Hair Growth Serum
Start with the why. Hair thinning and increased shedding can stem from multiple factors: genetics, stress, nutrition, postpartum or peri‑menopause shifts, tight hairstyles, illness.
Evidence over hype. Prioritize formulas with clinical testing or third‑party evaluations, not just influencer reels or before/afters without context.
Drug‑free or drug‑based. Minoxidil is an FDA‑approved drug for hereditary hair loss and can be a budget‑friendly choice if you’re comfortable with medication. If you want a drug‑free path, look for supportive actives (peptides, caffeine, niacinamide, plant growth factors) with credible testing, and set realistic timelines.
Delivery and daily use. Great ingredients need practical delivery: dropper tips for the hairline/temples, textures that sit well under styling, and clear instructions you can actually follow. Simple once‑daily routines are easier to maintain.
Safety and tolerability. Scan for potential sensitizers (fragrance/essential oils, warming agents). A patch test is smart.
Reviews with context. Look for verified reviews that mention how long the person used the product, where they applied it (hairline/temples), and how consistently they followed the routine. Transparency about both wins and trade‑offs is a good sign.
Value and support. Consider long‑term cost (serums often require months), guarantees that match hair‑cycle timing, and access to guidance (derm chat, trichologist support, or clear FAQs).
Red flags to skip: “overnight growth” promises; no ingredient list or no published data; all marketing and no instructions; heavy reliance on influencer claims without third‑party evidence; aggressive fragrance or irritants with no patch‑test guidance.
Bottom line: choose a consistent, evidence‑minded routine you can stick with daily and give it enough time to work.
150 Days. 12 Weeks. No Cutting Corners.
First, we looked for clear, apples‑to‑apples evidence: before‑and‑after photos taken the same way (same lighting, angle, and part line), objective hair counts or density checks using scalp‑imaging tools, and simple shed counts collected with a comb or standardized method.
Next, we checked for consistency. Products were used daily exactly as labeled over realistic time frames – about 12 weeks for many brands, and roughly 150 days in Bio‑Pilixin’s third‑party study. During those windows we kept routines steady, avoiding new salon treatments or extra actives that could muddy the results.
When we say “results,” we mean things you can actually see and measure: less hair fall by around day 45 for many users, visible fill‑in along the part or hairline in comparable photos, and measurable density changes around months three to five. Everyone’s different, and early‑stage thinning generally responds best.
Bio‑Pilixin® scored well because its third‑party trial ran for about 150 days with scalp imaging and shed counts, and many participants reported less shedding by ~45 days with density gains by the end. As always, results vary and consistency matters.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to work?
Most topical serums are designed for daily use and take time. Early signs often show up within 30-45 days as less shedding in the shower, on your brush, or pillow. Fuller‑looking density typically requires 3-6 months of consistent application.
Will I really see results?
Results vary by person and stage of thinning. Early‑stage concerns tend to respond best, especially at the hairline/part. Look for steady changes over weeks, like reduced shed counts, “baby hairs” along the edges, and improved coverage in like‑for‑like photos.
Can I speed this up?
There’s no overnight solution or “magic cure.” Hair cycles run in months, not days. The most important factor is consistency, so apply as directed every day and give it a full 3–5 months before judging results.
Who are serums best for?
People with early‑stage thinning where follicles are still active. Long‑inactive areas are less likely to respond to topicals alone.
Do I have to keep using it?
Ongoing maintenance is typical. If you stop, benefits may taper over time, so build a routine you can stick with.
What if I have a sensitive scalp?
Patch test on a small area, start with a smaller amount, and avoid layering multiple new actives at once. If redness or tenderness persists, discontinue and check with a professional.
Any photo tips to track progress?
Take pictures monthly in the same light, angle, and part line. It’s the easiest way to see subtle changes you might miss day to day.
Developed by Experts. Endorsed by Doctors.
Bio‑Pilixin® is produced in Denmark, dermatologically tested, and built on science‑led formulation with third‑party evaluations referenced throughout this guide.
“We strongly recommend a 3-month supply as clinical studies show that it takes at least 45 days to see the reduction in hair loss and 150 days to help improve scalp and hair vitality”
– Edna Skopljak, Medical Doctor (MD)
“The Bio‑Pilixin® Serum transformed my hair, promoting new growth and alleviating traction alopecia risks.”
Nabiah Malik, Medical Doctor (MD) and Aesthetics Doctor
Why We Stand Behind This One
We look at two things: proof and practicality. Bio‑Pilixin® has third‑party testing that lines up with realistic hair‑cycle timelines, a drug‑free formula you can use every day, and clear directions that make it easy to stick with.
There’s a human story here, too. The company was started by someone who struggled with his own hair loss and wanted better options, like cleaner formulas, real testing, and a routine people can actually follow. That ethos shows up in the product design and the 150‑day money‑back guarantee, which matches the time it typically takes to judge results.
Bottom line: if you want a plant-based, evidence‑minded serum from a brand that backs its claims with data and a realistic guarantee, Bio‑Pilixin® is easy to recommend!
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