Finding the right hair care and styling products isn't always a straightforward journey for men. Some resort to using whatever is available at home, like borrowing one’s girlfriend’s shampoo or sister’s deep conditioner. However, this approach might not always meet men’s specific and unique hair care needs. That's why I've curated a list of the best hair products for men, which my man has come to swear by.

This selection covers everything from essential hair care items such as shampoos and conditioners to styling must-haves like hair creams and gels. Whether you’re looking to nurture your hair or style it for that perfect look, there’s something here that's crafted just for men.  To help men navigate the often overwhelming world of hair products, I simplified the selection process so that every guy can easily find products that not only perform exceptionally well but also make hair care and styling an enjoyable part of their daily routine. With this list of recommendations, I'm here to guide you to the best solutions for your hair type and styling needs.

So, scroll down and check out the list for yourself!

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  Editors Choice

  American Crew Fiber Cream

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You get the benefits of both gel and cream in this innovative product from American Crew. Its hybrid formula offers a strong, flexible hold of a gel combined with the smooth, natural finish of a cream. Perfect for most hair types, the product aids in sculpting and defining the hair without causing it to become still. 

Whether you're looking to refine your everyday style or experiment with something new, this fiber cream ensures your hair stays manageable and free of flakes or residue. It's an essential tool for men to help them get a polished look with minimal fuss.

Key Ingredients: Water, glycerin, and beeswax

Size: 3.3 oz

2

Best OTC Hair Treatment for Men

Men's ROGAINE 5% Minoxidil Unscented Foam

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If you're grappling with male pattern baldness or noticing thinning hair, Rogaine Men’s 5% Minoxidil Foam might be a viable option for you. This product stands out as the first topical treatment approved by the FDA to help promote hair regrowth. Using Minoxidil as a main component of the solution effectively slows down hair loss while encouraging new growth in up to 12 weeks (study by the Journal of Dermatological Treatment). 

However, it's important to stay committed and patient, as results take time and regular use is crucial. What could be negative is should you stop using it, you might see your hair revert to its previous state. While results vary by individual, several customers report positive hair results like “growth in the bald patch area and beard growth” with this treatment.

Key Ingredients:  Minoxidil, citric acid, and glycerin

Size: 2.11 oz x 3

3

Best for Progressed Thinning Hair

Nioxin System 2 Kit Strengthening & Thickening Hair Treatment

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The Nioxin System 2 Kit is a standout choice for those noticing thinning hair, garnering a 4.3-star rating and over 7,500 positive reviews. This hair density boosting kit — including shampoo, conditioner, and a leave-in treatment — is richly formulated with invigorating ingredients like caffeine, wild mint oil, biotin, niacinamide, and peppermint oil. 

Designed specifically for hair that is thinning and noticeably fine, the shampoo and conditioner work in harmony to strengthen the hair fibers through and through. Besides, the leave-in treatment boosts hydration in the scalp and enhances hair density with consistent use. A feature about this product that left me stunned is that it also provides some defense from harsh sun rays, which is a notorious factor for hair damage.

Key Ingredients: Caffeine, wild mint oil, niacinamide, and peppermint oil

Size: 5.07 oz x 5.07 oz x 0.2 oz

4

Best Shampoo for Men

SheaMoisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen And Restore Shampoo

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If you're looking for a versatile shampoo suitable for both weak and damaged hair, this restorative shampoo from SheaMoisture could be your perfect match. This powerful formula is designed to not only cleanse but also strengthen and revitalize your hair. It's ideal for hair that has been damaged by chemical treatments or heat styling. And, the fact that this shampoo is free of harsh surfactants doesn’t come in the way of its cleansing excellence!

What I love about this shampoo is that in the pursuit of clarifying the hair and scalp, it also replenishes them with oodles of moisture. Moreover, this sustainably produced formulation is a commendable choice for conscientious consumers! 

Key Ingredients: Black castor oil, shea butter, and peppermint oil

Size: 13 oz

5

Best Hair Tool for Men

HEETA Hair Scalp Massager

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Men often overlook scalp massagers as many women tend to have them in their drawers, but this personalized scalp massager for men could change that. Made from eco-friendly wheat straw and soft silicone bristles, this tool is gentle on both the environment and your scalp. It’s ideal for all hair types and lengths and even works for pets or if you have long nails. 

The ergonomic design fits comfortably in the palm of one’s hand, allowing for customized massage intensity, while the unique bristle structure ensures deep, soothing stimulation without damaging the hair or scalp. Whether you're aiming for healthier hair or just a relaxing head massage, this is a must-have.

Key Ingredients: Wheat straw and silicone bristles 

Size: 3.35 x 3.35 x 2.83 inches

6

Best Hair Pomade for Thin Hair

Keeps Thickening Pomade

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The Keeps Thickening Pomade is an essential hair styling product for men aiming to achieve fuller, thicker hair growth, especially those suffering from low-density or thinning hair. This pomade keeps a firm hold on the hairstyle while also creating an illusion of volume without leaving any greasy residue. 

Its versatility allows for a range of styles from a casual tousle to a sleek, polished appearance. Additionally, its compact design makes it perfect for on-the-go grooming. In my opinion, it's a fantastic product for achieving a confident, voluminous hairstyle.

Quick Tip:

For men with short locks, simply work a small amount into damp hair and style as usual to enhance volume.

Key Ingredients: Biotin, caffeine, saw palmetto, and green tea

Size: 3.0 oz

7

Best Hair Conditioner for Men

Huron Men’s Smooth and Nourish Conditioner

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Men's hair often requires the extra nurturing that a 3-in-1 product simply can't provide. This is where the Huron conditioner excels. Leveraging the power of biotin and wheat protein, it helps strengthen the hair and reduce hair loss. Argan oil enriches the formula, delivering deep moisture and nourishment with its rich fatty acids and vitamin E content (research conducted by the European Journal of Lipid Science and Technology).

With a lotion-like consistency, it stands out not just for what it contains, but also for what it omits, such as phthalates, silicones, and aluminum. Plus, its packaging is 100% recyclable. Huron's commitment to efficacy and responsible practices is quickly establishing its reputation in the men’s grooming space.

Key Ingredients: Shea butter, argan oil, biotin, niacinamide, and aloe extracts

Size: 11.8 oz

8

Best Hair Topical Treatment for Men

Keeps 5% Minoxidil Topical Solution for Men

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Receding hairlines and premature balding can be daunting but Keeps 5% Minoxidil Topical Solution offers a beacon of hope. One can apply it directly to the scalp as this solution includes a handy dropper to precisely target areas of concern, particularly effective at the crown. Ideal for those striving for thicker hair, Keeps suggests that results might begin to show within 3-4 months. 

Initially, you might experience increased shedding as the solution works to replace old strands with new growth. Reviewers say that this is an ongoing process that lasts for 4 months at best. To sum it up, this product is surely worth the try, and quite convenient and cost-effective for an ongoing treatment.

Key Ingredients: Minoxidil 

Size: 2 oz x 3

9

Best Hair Gel for Men

Johnny B. Mode Styling Gel

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Known for its maximum hold and luminous shine, this citrus-scented styling gel from Johnny B. is alcohol-free, ensuring your hair stays hydrated and your scalp irritation-free. Whether you're aiming for a sleek, polished look or a more structured style, this gel provides maneuverable control, making you look like a sleek heartthrob (just like Henry Cavill, to be precise!). 

It's ideal for men who need a dependable styling solution that adapts to their dynamic lifestyle. On testing it out on my guy friends, I observed that its not-so-gooey texture felt easy to control the hair and also dried within seconds looking slick instantly. Affordable and highly praised in reviews, this hair styling product for men proves that great hair doesn’t have to come with a high price tag. 

Key Ingredients: Water, sorbitol, and panthenol

Size: 16 oz

10

Best Natural Hair Pomade

Brickell Men's Products Styling Clay Pomade

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For men serious about hair care, investing in quality products like Brickell Men's Pomade is essential for better hair health. Unlike typical dollar store finds, this all-natural pomade blends bentonite clay for a strong, yet pliable hold with hydrating argan oil and hydrolyzed quinoa to nourish your hair from the roots up. It ensures firm control without the damage of over-drying. 

Plus, its subtle scent won’t clash with your cologne, making it a smart choice for daily use. For guys aiming to maintain healthy, styled hair, stepping up to high-quality hair gels is a worthwhile investment for lasting benefits and superior performance.

Key Ingredients: Bentonite clay, hydrolyzed quinoa, and argan oil

Size: 2 oz

11

Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Hair and Scalp Treatment

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The Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Hair Mask offers a revitalizing treatment for maintaining healthy hair and scalp after your hair feels all “greasy and un-fresh”. Infused with natural tea tree oil, peppermint, and lavender, it not only leaves your hair fragrantly fresh but also deeply nourishes and soothes your scalp. 

Key ingredients like soy proteins, vitamin E, shea butter, and panthenol are present in the hair mask. The product aims to strengthen and repair hair while providing intense moisture and protection. Additionally, infused willow bark extracts help calm scalp irritations. For men, investing in this hair mask means repairing damage and also getting something excellent for routine grooming.

Key Ingredients: Soy proteins, panthenol, vitamin E, tea tree oil, peppermint oil, and shea butter 

Size: 5.1 oz

12

Avenue Man Volume Lift Mousse

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This mousse is formulated with a blend of powerful, organic ingredients like argan oil and aloe leaf juice, which condition the hair while providing essential hydration. Hydrolyzed silk protein and vitamin E help strengthen hair, and the addition of green tea extract offers a protective antioxidant boost. Peptides and natural plant proteins further reinforce hair structure, making this product especially beneficial for those with fine, dry, or thinning hair.

For short hair, it adds volume and texture without stiffness, while for long hair, this hair mousse helps control frizz and maintain desired styles. However, it also works well for longer hair. All in all, the product is a worthy investment for a well-rounded grooming routine.

Key Ingredients: Argan oil, aloe leaf juice, hydrolyzed silk protein, vitamin E, and green tea leaf extract

Size: 8.5 oz

13

The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair Density

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The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair Density is a standout in the haircare for men category, renowned for supporting scalp health and promoting thicker, fuller-looking hair. Its lightweight formula is packed with a potent blend of peptides that target the dead skin cells on the scalp, fostering an ideal environment for hair growth. This focus on scalp health sets it apart, ensuring that both hair and scalp receive the attention they need.

Ideal for both men and women, this serum is a versatile addition to any haircare routine. If your guy isn't using it yet, he might just end up "borrowing" it from your cabinet, thanks to its noticeable benefits.

Key Ingredients: Caffeine, biotin, Larix europaea wood extract

Size: 2.02 oz

With the top picks thoroughly discussed, I've included a concise buying guide to help you understand what your hair could possibly need.

Here are some expert tips and suggestions on selecting the best hair products:

1. Understand Your Hair Type And Needs: For men, understanding their hair type is crucial before determining what products to invest in. Dry hair may require hydrating shampoos and conditioners infused with plant butters, honey, rich oils, etc. whereas oily hair benefits from products with tea tree oil, panthenol, argan oil, salicylic acid, and niacinamide that lightly hydrate and regulate sebum production. 

Men with thinning hair should look for volumizing or thickening products like hair serums, oils, hair masks, and topical treatments to enhance fullness. Curly-haired men need products like curl gels, pomades, and hair masks that define and moisturize curls without weighing them down. You should look for products that not only cater to specific hair problems but also streamline your haircare routine.

2. Choose the Right Shampoo And Conditioner: Look for shampoos that address your particular hair concerns. For instance, moisturizing shampoos are great for dry hair, while those with tea tree oil or salicylic acid can help manage oily scalps. A good conditioner can help maintain the health of your hair by keeping it hydrated and manageable. Look for products that complement your shampoo and match your hair type.

3. Haircare Products: Hair care products play a crucial role in maintaining healthy hair. Leave-in conditioners, oils, and serums cater to various concerns such as frizz, brittleness, and damage. Towel-dried or wet hair can benefit from heat-protectant sprays during styling with tools like blow dryers. 

Specialized treatments like magnesium sulfate-infused products or alcohol-free gels address issues like slow growth or coarse texture. These products offer solutions for different hair types and concerns, ensuring the health and vitality of your hair.

4. Topical Treatments for Hair Loss: For men experiencing thinning hair, topical minoxidil is a proven option to help promote hair growth or slow hair loss. Be consistent with applications as directed to see results.

5. Styling Products: Depending on your hairstyle, choose products that enhance your look without damaging your hair. Lightweight gels or pomades work well for a more natural style, while stronger hold products are better for defined styles. On the other hand, hair styling products are essential for achieving desired looks and styles. Hair wax, clay, putty, and mousse cater to various hair types, including wavy, curly, straight, or thinner hair. They provide options for achieving a matte finish or medium shine, depending on preference. 

Styling powders, texture powders, and water-soluble products offer volume and manageability, especially for shorter or medium-length hair. Additionally, fan favorites like hair balm or serum help in achieving specific hair goals such as fullness or thickness while ensuring a clean, matte finish or weightless volume. These products empower individuals to express themselves through their hairstyles while addressing specific styling needs.

6. Avoid Harmful Ingredients: Steer clear of products with harsh chemicals like alcohol, which can dry out the hair. In addition to avoiding alcohol, watch out for sulfates and parabens in hair products. Sulfates, like sodium lauryl sulfate, can strip the hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation, while parabens, such as methylparaben, have been linked to hormone disruption. Opting for sulfate-free and paraben-free formulas ensures gentler care for your scalp and locks, promoting healthier, more vibrant hair without compromising on effectiveness or safety.

When using hair care products, it's important to be aware of potential side effects like buildups, dandruff, flaky scalps, dermatitis, and more, to prevent damage to your hair and scalp. Common side effects include:

1. Allergic Reactions: Ingredients like fragrances and preservatives can trigger allergic reactions, manifesting as itchiness, redness, or rashes on the scalp. Always perform a patch test on a small area of skin before using a new product extensively.

2. Build-ups: Heavy products like waxes, gels, and pomades can accumulate on the scalp, leading to build-up that clogs follicles and potentially causes folliculitis or dandruff. 

3. Hair Loss: Some products, especially those containing harsh chemicals, can weaken hair shafts, leading to breakage and hair loss.

4. Chemical Burns: Incorrect use of chemical-based products like hair relaxers and dyes can lead to scalp burns and permanent hair follicle damage. 

5. Scalp Irritation: Ingredients such as alcohol and sulfates can dry out the scalp, causing irritation and flakiness. 

To mitigate these risks, always choose products appropriate for your hair type, perform patch tests before using new products, and follow usage instructions carefully. To be safe, if you experience sudden itch or burns around your scalp and experience adverse effects, discontinue the use of the said hair product and immediately consult a dermatologist if necessary.