
The Beauty Shelf with Emily Darlow
Hair thinning is one of those changes many of us do not see coming, and yet it is incredibly common. For women, it often arrives during perimenopause and menopause, when falling oestrogen levels affect the hair growth cycle and strands become finer, weaker and more prone to shedding. For men, it is usually a combination of genetics and hormonal shifts that gradually lead to thinning at the crown or a receding hairline.
What makes hair loss particularly confronting is that it feels so visible. It can affect confidence, self image and how we feel about ageing itself. The good news is that there are now far more accessible, affordable options available that can help support hair density, scalp health and the appearance of fuller hair without resorting to extreme measures.
While no topical product can change genetics overnight, the right combination of scalp care, growth support and cosmetic solutions can make a meaningful difference over time.
Hair grows in cycles. As we get older, those cycles shorten, meaning hair spends less time in the growth phase and more time resting or shedding. In women, hormonal changes during menopause can reduce hair density and make strands finer. In men, sensitivity to dihydrotestosterone gradually shrinks hair follicles, leading to visible thinning.
Stress, illness, nutritional deficiencies and certain medications can also play a role, which is why a gentle, consistent approach tends to work better than aggressive treatments that irritate the scalp.
Supporting scalp health, stimulating follicles and strengthening existing strands are all part of a realistic hair care strategy for midlife and beyond.

Dermal Therapy Hair Restoring Serum
Price $27.95
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This is a budget friendly serum designed to support hair density and scalp health. It contains active ingredients that help stimulate the scalp and improve the condition of hair follicles, making it a good option for early stage thinning in both men and women. It is lightweight, easy to apply and non greasy, which makes it suitable for daily use. For anyone wanting to trial a growth support product without spending heavily, this is a sensible starting point.

BouF Haircare Range
Price starting from $29.95
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The BouF range focuses on strengthening fragile hair and reducing breakage, which is particularly helpful during menopause when hair can become noticeably finer and more brittle. Used consistently, these products help improve hair texture, resilience and overall appearance, making hair look thicker and healthier even when regrowth is gradual. This range suits both men and women who want to support their existing hair while encouraging healthier growth conditions.

Vani-T Gloss Hair Growth Shampoo and Conditioner Duo
Price starting from $37.95
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This shampoo and conditioner duo is formulated to support scalp health and stimulate hair growth while keeping hair soft and manageable. It is a good everyday option for people experiencing thinning related to hormonal changes or general ageing. The formulation is gentle enough for regular use and works well as part of a longer term routine rather than a quick fix. For anyone who prefers a simple wash based solution, this is a practical addition to a hair growth strategy.

MooGoo Hair Growth Serum
Price $27.95
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This is another affordable, gentle serum designed to nourish the scalp and support the hair growth cycle. It uses naturally derived ingredients to reduce irritation while encouraging healthier follicles. It is particularly suitable for sensitive scalps and for people who prefer a more natural approach. Used daily, it helps improve scalp condition and supports gradual regrowth over time.

Toppik Hair Building Fibres
Price $31.95
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While not a treatment product, these fibres are an excellent cosmetic solution for instantly improving the appearance of thinning hair. Made from keratin fibres, they attach to existing strands and create the look of thicker, fuller hair in seconds. They are especially useful for covering visible scalp at the crown or along part lines and can be a confidence boosting option while waiting for growth products to deliver results.
Hair loss in midlife is common, normal and far more manageable than it once was. Whether thinning is driven by menopause, genetics or general ageing, a combination of scalp care, growth support and cosmetic solutions can make a real difference.
The key is consistency, patience and realistic expectations. Affordable products can support healthier hair growth over time, and cosmetic options can provide immediate visual improvement. Most importantly, hair thinning does not have to be something you quietly accept or feel embarrassed about.
With the right routine and a little persistence, fuller looking hair is not out of reach.