Caffeine is our nation’s most popular stimulant & when applied to your scalp it can promote healthy-looking hair


Caffeine shampoo is used as a potential way to help to improve the thickness and vitality of their hair. But can it be used to treat or prevent hair loss?


Unfortunately, there is no evidence that a caffeine shampoo can be used to prevent or treat hair loss or help new hair to grow.


What does caffeine shampoo do?


Caffeine shampoos are designed to support hair growth by using caffeine as an active ingredient. When applied to your hair, caffeine is absorbed through the  scalp with the goal of stimulating your hair follicles to promote thicker, fuller, healthy-looking hair.  


There is no evidence to suggest that it can prevent or treat hair loss. In tests, caffeine has been shown to be able to encourage hair follicles to grow new hair in laboratory conditions. However, it has not been shown to be effective for new hair growth when directly applied to the scalp.


Can caffeine shampoo help with dandruff?


While caffeine shampoo can’t help to prevent dandruff on its own, some brands offer an anti-dandruff version which has added ingredients that target the causes of dandruff. 


Are there any adverse effects from using caffeine shampoo?


There is little risk of adverse effects from using a caffeine shampoo. In some rare cases, caffeine can cause irritation to the scalp. If irritation occurs, you should stop using the shampoo. 

Can caffeine shampoo help with hair loss?


While caffeine shampoo can be used if you want to improve the look of your existing hair, it doesn’t treat hair loss. 


If you are concerned about hair loss, you should discuss treatment options with your doctor. Access to advice and treatment for hair loss is also available from the Boots Online Doctor*

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*Access to treatment is subject to a consultation with a clinician to assess suitability. Charges apply.