Nioxin Shampoo for Hair Loss | Should You Use It?


  • Medically reviewed by: Dr. Anil Simhadri
  • Written by: William Slator
  • Last updated: 27/09/2021

The Nioxin brand is a popular brand of shampoos and other hair care products.  The shampoo is marketed to people who have moderate or advanced hair loss, but can it really help?

This article will review the pros and cons of Nioxin. This will include an in-depth look at its claims, as well as the scientific research backing them up.

What Is Nioxin Shampoo?

Nioxin shampoo and the Nioxin line of products were developed to help address issues of thinning and receding hair by making the scalp healthier.

Bottles of nioxin products

A woman called Eva Graham launched the brand in the 1980s.

On the company’s website we find the following account of how she decided to start Nioxin (1):

When Eva lost half of her own hair after giving birth – and found no real solution – her mind was made up. She began to cultivate a new approach to healthy hair, starting with the scalp. She read everything she could find on skin and hair. She visited dermatologists, attended medical conventions and listened to lectures in the car and realised that “the scalp is simply an extension of the face: it needs gentle ingredients to breathe and function correctly.” It was a simple but visionary idea and with just $500 dollars and a dream, Eva set to work. She started experimenting with herbs and botanicals at home and, from a small desk in her bedroom, built a network. She teamed up with biologists, chemists, pharmacologists and hairdressers and talked endlessly to consumers to create a revolutionary skin care company for hair.

Over time, the product range and formula evolved significantly. Eventually, the brand was purchased by Procter & Gamble.

In 2019, Procter & Gamble announced they would be closing the company’s Atlanta headquarters and factory, moving all production to Mexico (2).

Procter & Gamble justified the cost-cutting measure by claiming the move “will enable P&G Salon Professional to create better long-term economics, generate additional manufacturing scale, a more robust research and development infrastructure and greater organizational capability.

The Nioxin Range

The foundation of the brand is the so-called Nioxin systems. Each system is made of shampoo, conditioner, and leave-in conditioner. Though it is possible to use the shampoo only, for best results, Nioxin recommends all three.

Here is the full current lineup of the Nioxin systems:

Treatments for light thinning:

  • System 1: for natural hair
  • System 3: for colored hair
  • System 5: for bleached hair

Treatments for progressed thinning:

  • System 2: for natural hair
  • System 4: for colored hair
  • System 6: for bleached hair

Aside from the six systems, the company offers numerous other products. These include a vitamin supplement they call a “recharging complex”, as well as styling products like hair sprays and gels, minoxidil topicals, and more. There are also numerous stand-alone shampoos, conditioners, and leave-ins that are not part of a system.

On the brand’s website, one can count around 80 products. This range of products is so large as to be confusing to the consumer. This is one of the main drawbacks we will discuss below.

Active Ingredients

Nioxin has opted for a combination of chemical and plant-derived ingredients. Unlike other products for men and women with hair loss, there is no single active ingredient that stands out in the Nioxin formula.

Because the product range is so varied, the active ingredients can also be quite different from one product to the next. This makes it difficult to assess the effectiveness of Nioxin.

Plant-Based

Some of the plant-based compounds we find in the System 2 shampoo, for example, include (3):

  • Stinging nettle (Urtica Dioica)
  • Saw Palmetto (Serenoa Serrulata)
  • Grapefruit extract (Citrus Paradisi)
  • Common hop (Humulus lupulus)
  • Essential oils like peppermint and wild mint

peppermint leaves and oil on a table

Chemical

The list of chemicals in Nioxin is quite long. Here are the main ingredients you will find in the System 2 Shampoo:

  • Salicylic acid
  • Sodium laureth sulfate
  • Sodium lauryl sulfate

Salicylic acid is one of the most common anti-dandruff ingredients (4). You can also find it in popular anti-dandruff shampoos like Neutrogena T-Sal, Baker’s P and S, etc.

What Are Sodium Laureth Sulfate and Sodium Lauryl Sulfate?

As we saw, two of the ingredients you will find in some Nioxin products are sodium lauryl sulfate and sodium laureth sulfate (SLS). These chemicals are so-called surfactants and are used as cleansing and foaming agents. Nioxin’s rich lather is largely due to the SLS in the formula.

What many users don’t know is that these chemicals are also used in industrial detergents and household cleaning products like laundry detergents, carpet cleaners, and stain removers.

\In recent years, they have come under increasing scrutiny, as some claim, they can have an adverse impact on humans, especially when used excessively.

A pair of hands filled with soap suds

These chemicals have corrosive properties and are known as skin irritants, leading to dry skin and itchiness (4). They can also irritate the eyes.

These substances are common allergens and may be one of the leading causes of irritation caused by the use of Nioxin shampoos and cleansing products.

Does It Work?

There is no published independent research to confirm Nioxin’s effectiveness in regrowing hair.

Having said that, it is likely that at least some users will see benefits from using Nioxin.

Support for this comes from the large number of positive reviews many users post online (see below). The formulation also contains a number of ingredients believed to promote hair growth, such as saw palmetto and stinging nettle (5).

What About the Side Effects?

According to the makers of Nioxin, there are no side effects associated with Nioxin.

As discussed above, some of the harsh chemicals in the Nioxin formula might act as skin irritants. Over time, rather than promoting a healthy scalp, the user may experience increased irritation and sensitivity. If you experience any unwelcome side effects when using Nioxin, discontinue treatment.

 

Reviews of Nioxin

On Amazon, the Nioxin systems have an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, based on over 11,000 ratings (6).

Many users report stronger hair growth and the formation of new baby hair.

The shampoo is also pleasant to use. The combination of a herbal scent and peppermint oils create a pleasant shampoo for daily use. Users often report enjoying the tingling sensation associated with peppermint oil extracts.

As a daily use shampoo, these products also tend to provide a clean head of hair that smells nice and does not appear oily or unhealthy.

On the other hand, many users report the system did nothing for them. Some even report increased shedding.

According to some long-time users of the Nioxin products, the changes since production moved to Mexico have led to a different product. This is inferior to the original formulation in contents and results.

What Is the Cost of Nioxin?

In order to achieve the best results from the product, Nioxin recommends that people use the full array of products in the Nioxin system.

A single month’s supply of the entire Nioxin system can cost upwards of $40USD. This can become quite expensive, as the manufacturer recommends daily use for the best results.

It is possible to utilize just the daily cleansing product (shampoo), which contains the most effective active ingredients.

When compared to other products on the market that are addressed to a similar audience, Nioxin products are among the more expensive options available. This becomes especially apparent when considering competitor products that do not require frequent use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Nioxin for Both Sexes?

Yes, both men and women can use Nioxin.Applying to the scalp and hair.

Can People without Hair Loss Use It?

According to the makers of Nioxin, even people who are suffering from hair loss will benefit from using Nioxin.

How Often Should You Use It?

The makers recommend you use the Nioxin shampoo, conditioner, and leave-in on a daily basis.

How Long till You Start Seeing Results?

Any new regrowth may take a few months to become visible. However, in users who respond well to Nioxin, the effects on the scalp and existing hair shafts can be seen after a few weeks.

Where Can You Order it?

You cannot purchase Nioxin directly from the company’s website. Most people purchase it through Amazon or other online retailers. You can also find it in selected hair salons.

Conclusion – Is Nioxin Worth It?

There are plenty of products on the market that claim to improve the health of the scalp and reduce hair fall.

Nioxin has been on the market for over three decades. Millions of consumers in many countries have used and still use it to this day. This alone suggests that the product is effective, at least for some users.

A man washing his scalp using homemade shampoo

On the other hand, the Nioxin range does have some glaring weaknesses. Most notably, the range of products and versions is so large that the consumer might end confused as to what product is appropriate for him or her.

The high cost and recommended daily use are another notable disadvantage.

The products also appear over-processed, with a long-range of ingredients. In addition, the manufacturer recommends the daily use of a 3-part system. This overabundance of chemical treatments might end up having the opposite to the intended effect, at least in some users.

When it comes to hair, less is often better. This might be especially true for men and women who are dealing with hair loss. After all, our scalp and hair evolved over millions of years with our ancestors treating it with nothing but water.


Information contained on this website has not been evaluated by any medical body such as the Food & Drug Administration. All information is for educational purposes only. We do not aim to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease or illness. You must consult a medical professional before acting on any content on this website.

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  1. After using barely 4 times, Nioxin Scalp Therapy System #3 Shampoo and Conditioner that my hairdresser recommended, my scalp started itching when I had just washed my hair, and I noticed an enormous loss of hair, and I mean a lot! I was using Argan Oil shampoo before, as well as Argan Oil penetrating oil from time to time, not at each washing though.

    I know without a doubt that I hardly saw any hair loss with the latter shampoo but felt that it was not hydrating my scalp as it should. This is the only reason why I went with Nioxin. It did not work for me and I will not continue using it. I even told my hairdresser just that and advised him to explain the side effects to people before they purchase the products and not lose $60 like I did because, no, the hairdresser is not reimbursing me!!

    1. Hi Annie, thanks for your feedback. This is really interesting. Clear evidence for people to avoid Nioxin. I would recommend making your own shampoos that contain all-natural ingredients instead.

      1. About 3 years ago I used this product while staying at my sisters house during thanksgiving. While in the shower I used the nioxin product my sister had for “thickening.” I applied the shampoo, then the conditioner as I would any other shampoo. However as I started to apply the scalp treatment my hair immediately started to fall off. I screamed for my sister to come into the bathroom. Once she opened the door she yelled, “Hey are you using my Nair. It smells like you are. ” I just started panicking.
        It was such a dramatic experience and for the next three years I had to cut my hair twice a month because it was so weak a uneven. My scalp was visibly burned on my forehead right on my hair line. I had serval bald spots but the product also managed to burn my hair off. It was as if someone took a pair of scissors and cut my hair with a blind fold on. Now my hairs long and my natural curls are back.
        Please I recommend everyone never to use this product.

        1. I have been using it for 5 weeks and it is working great. No negative side effects whatsoever and hair is healthier and appears to be getting thicker. Very satisfied. I recommend trying it.

    2. Hey! Did you notice hair loss after just a couple uses? I swear nioxin used to work for me but the last year or so I keep going back to it and each time, I see significant hair loss right away

      1. I’ve been using Nioxin for over a year and have seen no change. Now that I’m reading some of the reviews now I know why my scalp has been itchy all this time. Dumping the product and think I should get my $180 back I’ve spent over the last year.

    3. I have definitely noticed a decrease in hair loss but the exchange is that my hair is now extremely dry and brittle. I hope I haven’t ruined my hair. I’ve been using Nioxin #1 for several months. I should have researched it more before starting the product. Not sure how to get my old hair back?

      Ellen

  2. After using this product for about 3 weeks I finally realized why I was breaking out so bad on my face with red bumps, it was Nioxin products. I even went to a dermatologist to figure out what was going on with my skin that hadn’t looked so bad since puberty. My delay in associating the Nioxin was that I had used it a long time ago with no issues. As previously stated by another, ingredients changed and I’ve gotten older, so unfortunately I had a bad allergic reaction. I still have my receipts so I am returning the products to the retailer. Hope to clear up soon to what I used to look like before using Nioxin. Ugh!!!!!!!!!!!!

        1. Hi there I went to my usual hair stylists and after my colour she washed my hair in Nioxin without me knowing. I smelt the peppermint never smelt it before and asked what it was she told me the name of it and I thought it was for calming the scalp after all over colour. Will my hair not grow or fall out?

          1. I just bought this product I was so happy to try it out…it made my hair feel like straw after I washed my hair then the conditioner made my scalp feel tingly…after got out the shower to brush my hair it was a huge poof ball !! My hair was so dry and coarse! Took me awhile to straighten my hair and put oil to calm the frizz… horrible experience ! I tried to take the products back however the beauty supply store said the have a no exchange or refund policy. .I spent $72 for nothing 🙁

  3. What would you recommend to someone with very thin, border line balding on the crown due to chemo and total body radiation 15 years ago? I’ve tried Nioxin many years ago and a beautician told me to stop using it as it was drying my hair and scalp out. I currently use powders and spray-away gray to cover my extremely thin area on the crown. PLEASE HELP! Thank you

    1. Hello Nettie, I would recommend a shampoo that doesn’t contain chemicals. Our Grogenix Shampoo fits the bill and contains a number of proven hair stimulating natural extracts.

  4. Hello, after using nioxin started a rhinitis allergy. The second time of use when I put the kit 2 days later began a huge allergy in my face, I was very affected, in the hospital’s emergency I was given allergy and antibiotics,
    Doctor talked about laryngitis, sinusitis and severe allergy in the eyes and whole face. A week ago with medication I still feel very bad. The throat seems to catch fire. The airways are all obstructed. I have good health and I have never had anything like it. I can not prove it was Nioxin. But I was very well and after use occurred all that picture. My ears are deafening buzzing. I do not see much improvement with antibiotics, it leaves a lot of yellow mucus looking like infection. Certain moments begins to burn throat eyes, it is a horror. I hope nobody goes through this. A nightmare. I do not know if it was coincidence to use nioxin and this happens.
    But I felt compelled to comment on why I was looking into this matter.

    1. Hello Marisa, this sounds terrible. It sounds like a really strong allergic reaction. Thanks for sharing your experience with us.

    1. Thanks for your response Will. Can u send me your ACV hot/cold drink recipe. I can’t seem to locate it any longer

  5. I’ve been using this product for years on the recommendation of my hairdresser. Always have had very thin hair and never seen any positive response in my hair. However, lately my scalp is itchy. I’m torn on if I should continue using.

    1. Hi Jennifer, it’s a tough question. If you haven’t seen much positive response from using it then maybe you shouldn’t continue. The problem with these products that use chemicals is that they can help in the short term, but over the long term the chemicals disrupt the natural balance of the hair and scalp. They can negatively affect the delicate balance of pH and good bacteria on the scalp. I always advocate a natural solution. For you I would recommend trying a couple of tablespoons of apple cider vinegar no more than 2x per week. See how it goes.

    2. Actually my hair is also falling alot. I am not sure if it is because of nioxin or something else? So should i stop using nioxin or not?

  6. I’m so happy I read this article I’ve been using Nioxin. And not happy my hair used to be OK now I’m stopping this products immediately..thank you so much I’m gonna spread the word this is not very good.

      1. I purchased nioxin 2 had hair lose no one explained side effects would not recommend it at all

  7. Thank you so much for this information.I was considering using it and now will not! Has anyone heard about the mona t system?

  8. Thank you for the information on Nioxin. I was just about to purchase this product. I have very sensitive skin and this is probably not the right product for me.

    1. Thanks Val! I would definitely recommend steering away from this kind of a chemical product, especially if you have sensitive skin. Incidentally, I used to have really sensitive skin as well, one of the things that really helped my skin, and stopping it from being really dry, was to start drinking raw goat’s milk kefir. See if you can get hold of some in your area.

  9. Just used this product last weekend as recommended by hairdresser for my thinning hair. Got extremes headaches for two following days! Gonna try your natural ingredient hair wash.

  10. I went thru chemo and lost all my hair. I started using Nioxin because I was told it promotes hair growth. I didn’t really see/feel side effects you mentioned but want to keep my hair healthy. Any suggestions for me for shampoo and conditioner? Thx for all the info, Diane

    1. Hi Diane, I would definitely recommend a shampoo that is completely free from chemicals. Some of the ingredients in Nioxin are known endocrine disruptors and possibly carcinogenic.

  11. Really interesting article, i was away to purchase this for my 12yr old daughter whos hair is falling out from the roots in clumps. Have you any recommendations for this?

    1. Hi Jam, I definitely would not recommend giving Nioxin for your daughter to use. You must use an all-natural shampoo instead of one with chemicals.

  12. I’ve tried their system for 6 months and haven’t noticed any improvement at all. My hair might have even gotten worse. Now I am going to try the Grogenix range instead.

  13. You sounded okay until you said something was full of chemicals as if it was the coming of a nuclear holocaust..everything is a chemical, water is a chemical you are a bunch of chemicals, your natural products are full of chemicals..lettuce contains chemicals..nothing worse than stupid people

    1. Hi Jane, thanks for your comment.

      How about the ingredients in this shampoo that are known endocrine disruptors? Fine to go on your skin but you wouldn’t want them inside your body right? Well that’s where most people go wrong. The skin/blood barrier isn’t impermeable. Just try putting raw garlic on your stomach and cover with a hot, wet towel. Soon, your breathe will smell like garlic because some of those molecules pass through the skin and into the blood.

      So let me ask you a question… would you eat a teaspoon of Nioxin shampoo knowing whats in it?
      Probably not!
      So why would you put it on your scalp?
      Those ingredients will go through the skin and into your blood.

      Not that I would recommend anyone trying it, but I have consumed all the ingredients in the Grogenix Shampoo.

      To save time I use the word chemical to define something that you wouldn’t put inside your body, of course in scientific terms everything is a chemical but that’s just the way I use it in this context for brevity.

      Thanks
      Will

  14. Hey Will, I am so glad I read your article about this product nioxin the hairdresser that worked in the Wal-Mart shop was highly recommended me for these products cause I have loss all my hair at the top of my head from central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia. Dermatologist couldn’t save the hair I had left. But they didn’t tell me i was gonna lose the rest of my hair.its been 10 years now. The hairdresser telling me she is guarantee my hair to grow and get the inflammation out .

  15. I have female pattern hair loss. I tried Rogaine for 1 year and it didn’t regrow hair but helped retain what I had. I was still shedding and in late July the shedding picked up. I also had swelling around the eyes and black circles. I stopped Rogaine and now the shed is worse. I was just about to purchase Nioxin. I color my hair. Do you have any suggestions? My temples are almost bald and the shed is around 300 on days that I wash.

    1. Firstly I would recommend not colouring. This can severely damage the hair and scalp. Have you optimised your diet for hair nutrition. You can check out our meal plan which is free if not. Nutrition is the first step. Sorry to hear about the side effects of the Rogaine, you can learn more about them here. I definitely would not recommend Nioxin. There are so many chemicals in this shampoo, the long term damage to your scalp and your health is not worth any short term benefits. Have you looked into our Grogenix Shampoo which is all-natural?

  16. I have female pattern hair loss. I tried Rogaine for 1 year and it didn’t regriw hair but helped retain what I had. I was still shedding and ladt July shedding picked up. I also had swelling around the eyes and black circles. I stopped Rogaine and now shed is worse. I was just about to purchase Nioxin. I color my hair. Do you have any suggestions? My temples are almost bald and the shed is around 300 on days that I wash.

  17. Dear Will, I totally agree with everything you have said. Thank you for writing this article about Nioxin. My hair dresser whom I dearly love has been pushing Nioxin products on me for years saying how wonderful it is. I’m totally into health and nutrition since early seventies although I have not used this product that long. I have always felt this to not be the best thing for me. I knew there were chemicals in it, but could never find info on it like what you wrote. Over the years, I have used it but have also looked for other natural products. I’ve never really had reactions others mentioned. I have had some other health problems not related to this shampoo. But maybe they are related?? I can now tell my hair dressed I just can’t use it because of the chemicals in it. One thing I was a little surprised about that you didn’t mention is the effect the thyroid has on hair loss. Being hypothyroid (low thyroid) is a great cause of hair loss. Times that my hair has fallon out and my eyebrows got thin was when my medicine was too low or I had not been taking it at all yet. Unfortunately, a lot of doctors Do Not know the proper tests or what the numbers should be and then say it is just aging which infuriates me. There now is a lot of information on internet and in books so people can be more informed. I’ve worked with indigenous cultures and you are so right. I’ve never seen an older indigenous person who has eaten their native food all their life, not the standard American diet, with loss of hair. They are beautiful people with thick white hair. Some even keep their color which I find amazing. Thank you very much putting up this information.

    1. Hello Patricia, thanks for your comment. We really appreciate you sharing your experience. That’s so interesting what you say about indigenous cultures. We do have a few other articles about thyroid and hair problems. I totally agree that when a doctor puts something down to ‘aging’ that really is lazy and incompetent of them. I’ll never accept that getting older means hair loss and other medical problems. That’s just the mainstream view for now, but I think it will change in the next ten years.
      Will

  18. I used the original Nixon about 18 years ago and it worked wonders on my hair and scalp. My hair grew long and thick, and when I would go to the hair dresser, they would tell me gouge soft my hair was. Well now to the present. This current Nixon product IS NOT THE SAME. I haven’t seen any good results on my hair so I stopped using it. Whatever they did to this product, is a shame. Many, many moons ago, it grew my hair and my daughter’s hair and worth every penny I paid for it back then. Whatever it is now, they can keep it.

    1. Just purchased the system 3 from Amazon, but after reading these comments, I’m afraid of using it. I did notice that it is produced in Mexico, which freaks me out as well. Do you think I would be better off finding another product, or should I give it a try? Thanks

  19. Can’t thank you enough for this information on Nioxin – wow. I have been using this product and it’s whole system for several years. No longer!! I am an older woman of the old school and not aware. Thank goodness for my learning to use the internet and gleening info I never knew I could. What a lifesaver! I will now look up Grogenix Shampoo. And learn to mix my own as well.

  20. Does this work to maintain hair growth or improve it even if taking a medication like lisinopril which may be causing my hair to fall out more?

  21. I got half way through and all you were doing was repeating the same facts over and over. And also, if Nioxin contains skin irritants and itches so bad then how does it soothe the scalp and make hair grow?? I couldn’t tell if you were being a Nioxin spokes person or bringing the product down to promote your product better? One more thing I’m gonna leave you with, hair dye has way way worse things in it and parents let their child get their hair dyed. So if a 6 year old can rock purple hair, I’m pretty sure this product isnt going to hurt anyone who’s old enough to be using it. We live in a world of chemicals, why are you worried now?

    1. Hi Kay, it’s an interesting point about the hair dye. Honestly hair dye is going to seriously damage your hair. Anyone who is prone to baldness should seriously avoid it. At the end of the day this article it just my opinion. I try to avoid chemicals like these. After all, the skin/blood barrier is thin and chemicals can easily go through and into the blood. I personally wouldn’t want most of those ingredients on my scalp.

  22. Hi, I’m a Black female having some thinning with my hair. Looks like it’s making a turnaround, but slow going in a few small places. For the most part not too bad. I do have chemically treated hair and I have it colored with permanent hair dye powder. I forget the name, but it needs no developer, no peroxide, or ammonia. My stylist uses Nioxin 4 occasionally from time to time on me and it seemed liked it helped a lot, but now my hair is dry, brittle, dry scalp, flaking. Is the hair growth worth the side affects? I guess I s/h started off with telling you my hair shredded a great deal and thinned when my mom had cancer and I am an only child, father deceased. I’m grown, but very very close to my mother. The sheer worry brought my hair out by the hand fulls at first, I was blessed to have hair on my head. She’s cancer free now 2 years, but the aftermath on my hair is still catching up a bit. I had really really thick hair ALL my life until her illness. Disease diagnosis now Dementia for my mom. I’m devastated once again, I can’t catch a break neither can she of course. So do you feel I should leave the Nioxin alone? And if so replace with what to take to my salon once a week? My stylist keeps telling me not to worry so much that hair takes time to grow back and approaching 50 in 2.6 years some thinning now would be normal even though i have had enough hair for 2-3 ppl all my life. Just hard to accept, but I am going thru a lot taking care of a elderly parent alone. One more question….would you recommend a rinse over permanent hair dye in my situation? Thank you

    1. Hi Cindy, it sounds like stress is the primary cause of the hair shedding. Of course there is no easy way to deal with it. However, one small tip I can recommend for stress induced hair loss is breathing exercises. Here’s an article I wrote about the topic. Personally I prefer not to use shampoos like Nioxin because of the ingredients, but it’s your decision. Don’t worry too much about that though, focus on trying to alleviate stress through breathing.

  23. Hi Will, Not sure if you can answer this but how quickly can any side effects reverse when you stop using products like Nioxin ? Or is long term damage done that can’t be reversed ?

    Thanks Nicky

  24. I was on antibiotics last may 2017 for illness (docxycyline) and by the end of August 2017 my hair started shedding. It is now August 2018 and it’s still excessively shedding.i have gone to drs. But no one believes that the antibiotic is the cause. I have used nioxin and then stopped and then just purchase it again. But I am not sure about using it again- I don’t think my hairloss can be helped by this product but I really don’t know what to do. Any suggestions?

  25. Hi Will, I have found all the information here really helpful. I have a young daughter with stunning red ringlets to her waist but after a recent family holiday where we now realise the swimming pool chemicals were too strong or something not right in there she has been losing handfuls of hair after each wash for just over the last month . It’s terrifying how fast this has happened. Even just simple brushing results in a small handful but after washing and brushing it’s much worse. It took a while to really notice the impact but I’d say she’s already lost a third of her hair volume and it shows no signs of slowing. I normally use sulphate free shampoos and conditioners on her hair as I have thinner blonde hair but I really don’t know what to do. My hairdresser recommended a clarifying shampoo to remove any residual chlorine but also said that would strip her hair of its natural oils. My question is after over a month is the chlorine or pool chemical still in her hair and if so what is the best course of action at this stage. I have been using my hair masks and oils and sulphate free shampoos from Pureology and L’anza on it but it’s still feeling dry and coming out. Her once lustrous volumous mane of hair is looking very different. I use apple cider vinegar & coconut oil in daily life so very open to all natural ideas. I recently restored my gut naturally and we are very good with diet so would be really interested to have some advice if you wouldn’t mind,
    Many thanks
    Jackie

    1. Hi Jackie, thanks for the comment. Sorry to hear about this, it seems like an unusual case, but yes in general I try to avoid chlorinated swimming pools. I would say there is a really good chance of the lost hair regrowing slowly but it is worrying that the loss has continued over a month after. I don’t know of anything specifically you can try. We sometime recommend a salicylic acid peel but this is more about removing DHT. I would stay focused on cleansing the scalp .

  26. Nioxin-Wow I should have done my research yes itchy scalp probably due to all the bloody chemicals in this stuff. My hair is falling out not impressed Nioxin’s reason for this-the reason for this is its old and dying hair that’s why its falling out and will be replaced with new hairs. NO I don’t want my hair to fall out.
    I used to only use baking soda on my hair for years. and then wanted my hair to grow so started with this stupid product.
    Will stop using Nioxin immediately

  27. Nioxin leaves my scalp itchy and actually makes my hair fall out at the roots. I could run my fingers through my hair and pieces would just fall out. So, I stopped using it. I noticed my hair had stopped falling out. Then, I decided to do a trial test just to see. I used Nioxin this morning and sure enough about 15 hairs fell out while I was conditioning. And now, my scalp is itchy. The Nioxin is going in the trash!

  28. Thank you for your informative information.
    Very upsetting reading about the possible side effects of sodium laurel sulfate and other harmful chemicals in nioxin.
    I have been researching for days as to why I am having an allergic reaction resulting in hives. I am wondering if it could be an allergic reaction to the nioxin thinnng hair products that I have been using for 6 weeks. After reading your research, I am thinking there may be a corralation for the hives as a result of the ingredient sodium laurly sulfate (and the potential of 1,4 dioxane if the sodium laurly sulfate is contaminated. ??? lord, I hope not.
    I have been using nioxin products for fine thining hair…: the shampoo, conditioner, the intense treatment and the intensive therapy Hair Booster for about 6 weeks.
    I have gone over all products and foods that’ve eaten since the hives appeared to
    After observing my scalp the past 2 days, I have noticed that the area where I have put the intensive hair booster and scalp treatment is red and very dry..almost scaly around the hairline and down a few inches on my forehead. Also a red splotch in the front where my hair is the thinnest. I was using the intensive hair booster and scalp therapy twice daily as direction. I’ve stopped using the product after hives developed. I am taking OTC benadrly and allegra since last Wed. Symptoms are improving, but I am concerned as the hives have gone on now for 6 days. Have you heard of this allergic reaction from others? I will not be using any nioxin products from now on. I am wondering if the product has to run it course through my vascular system before my hives completly go away. ??
    Any thoughts from you would be appreciated. Thank you, James Harrington

    1. Hi James, sorry to hear this. As you know I am not a fan of Nioxin due to it being full of chemicals. It could well be these causing your problems. If it was me I would totally look for something a bit more natural. Our Grogenix shampoo is a good option but the choice is yours to make. I would expect things to clear up for you shortly after you stop using it. Thank you sharing your comment with us. Hopefully people can learn from your experience.

  29. Would your all natural shampoo help with hair that is broken and in serious need of repair due to braiding and other hair styles that just tore my daughters hair up? Thank you

  30. I’ve been using Nioxin shampoo and conditioner for 9 years, and I love it. No side effects or allergic reactions. I lost my hair due to chemotherapy for breast cancer 10 years ago, and my hair has grown back longer and thicker. I use #4 shampoo and conditioner. My oncologist and hairdresser both recommended it!

  31. I have thinning hair and dandruff and wanted to try this product again as I used about 20 years ago and loved it. Since I’ve been using it about 3 months I’ve noticed an increase in my hair loss by about three times! I will stop using this product 🙁

  32. I used NIOXIN and I have Seborrheic Dermatitis hoping I would clear my condition. It made my condition WORSE thanks for nothing. Will tell everyone NOT TO USE. What a waste of money .

  33. I googled Nioxin and found your article, which was very helpful to me. My interest was piqued because after using Nioxin for a short time, I noticed my hair visably thinning and found my scalp to be very itchy. In addition, I experienced some lesions on my face. I am obviousl allergic to the product and intend to stop using it immediately. Thank you for the info!

  34. Not only did my Nioxin make my noticeably thinning hair regrow – it was also cleared up chronic scalp folliculitis. The folliculitis was extremely severe which resulted in cellulitis and a week’s stay in hospital.

    I battled with this condition along with the embarrassing hair loss for over 5 years. I tried everything. Natural, chemical, change of diet, creams, supplements – you name it. Every doctor I went to was useless in helping me.

    Nioxin is the only thing that works.

  35. Hi Will
    I have tried Nioxin in the past had no negative reaction to it but no positive either. It made my hair strands dry and brittle, not good for thin naturally curly hair . I recently started using Monat with the same purpose as Nioxin to cleanse scalp without the harsh chemicals but also benefits the actual hair strands . I researched it to the best of my ability for months before trying it , despite some controversy and claims made by some. Monat can only be purchased through a sponsor like myself so direct marketing might be why there’s some controversy . Monat has worked amazing for me . Was wondering if you’ve heard of Monat and what your thoughts on the non toxic ingredients are ?

  36. I’m told that Nioxin isn’t the cause, but about a week after I started using it, I started having very low blood pressure and very bad head aches. Been using it for 2 months now and haven’t seen any difference in my hair except that it’s a lot dryer.

  37. I’ve been on nioxin 2 three step process for several years and haven’t seen much hair growth at all, tried going off of it now for 8 weeks and lost about half my hair.
    What would you recommend to use ( more natural product if possible!)to start regrowing more hair?

  38. So interesting, my scalp can be terribly itchy and get lots of pimples. When I use nioxin it is really helpful for my scalp. I can’t remember why I stopped using it last fall as things were fine. However after I stopped my hair got really thin the inch around my forehead in the front? I have never had hair thinning problems before? So can this actually cause hair loss? I am so confused. I have never had anything but good responses to this from my scalp. But not sure why when I stopped I developed this issue. Although in the last 4-5 months prior to stopping I was using it every shampoo, as opposed to just every third time like I had in the past when I used it. Any thoughts? I hope I explained well enough. Can Nixon actually cause the thing it is supposed to treat. I love this product, but I love my hair more.

  39. So what are good products to use for hair loss such as shampoo conditioner serum, etc? Is Rogaine a good product to use for female hair loss with family history and use of thyroid and blood pressure medications?

  40. Long story long:
    I used Rogaine works until you stop using. It says not to use it near an open flame. Duh.. it has propane & butane in it. Who wants to put lighter fluid on their hair? Minoxidil is poisonous around cats!
    My hairdresser suggested that I try castor and a carrier oil (to thin) it. It’s a bit labor intensive, because I cover it with a shower cap and a head wrap for 4 hours. The oil sinks into your hair.
    I have used it for less than 2 months…and! I have baby hairs growing in my “landing strip” on the front sides of my hair that usually fall out or break off.. I’m getting comments.
    My hair shines!
    I shake up 3 T castor oil (cold-pressed and hexane-free, lots of brands that do not stink, cheap on Amazon)
    and 1 T jojoba oil.)
    . You can use coconut oil or other kinds of carrier oil.
    This is not an infomercial for castor oil. I’m not selling anything.

  41. I have been using nioxin 2 for 3 weeks, at first I noticed my hair was very dry , but I liked the minty smell and the way my scalp felt . Now 3 weeks later my hair is falling out and my scalp is itchy, I’ve noticed my front crown and scalp is thinner than before , I just touch my hair and a few strands fall out , I also have had acne around my nose, I didn’t think it was the nioxin , but now realize it probably is . Another product straight to the trash, I hope my hair grows back , I’m going back to using coconut oil only if needed for dryness. Very sad because my hair was fine , but recently have moved and my diet is not good right now , hope this helps someone . I have an allergy to sulphur , an ingredient in the supplement MSM.dont know if there is a connection but the result was severe acne also, and in the same spots.

  42. My wife is a transplant recipient and started using Nioxin after transplant to help her thinning hair issue due to medications. It seems to have helped and her hair is much thicker and growing better now. Everyone’s skin is different so besides actual physical health it is hard to have a once size fits all solution it seems to similar issues.

  43. Hi Will,

    why is it that it’s sells very well and for years? Doesn’t that mean it works for most people and maybe not for others? Everyone’s chemistry is different, I believe that what works for some doesn’t work for others.

  44. My old hairdresser recommended me to use it. It has completely RUINED my hair. The first year, I didn’t notice much difference, it helped with some of my hair shedding. Then all of a sudden my hair started coming out in huge clumps.. I’m only 33 and do not dye my hair and don’t wash it every day. Since using Nioxin I have lost almost all my hair and what has grown back in is now a horrible texture, coarse, dry, brittle, breaks off and it even made it like a curly texture. I’m mortified to leave the house. It’s all different lengths and thickness, I lost so much hair I don’t even have enough for a ponytail. I just had a consultation with a stylist and he said to stop immediately. I’m going to have to cut off all my hair and wait years for it to regrow. I’ve never had short hair, this product is awful. I would NOT recommend. I just pray my hair grows back to normal and it didn’t completely ruin it.

  45. hi there, i have been using Nioxin system 2 for over a year, my hair is very baby fine, so you can see the scalp, Nioxin has improved the volume slightly, I have vitiligo, and the whole of my scalp has recently gone completely white, I’m not sure if its the vitiligo spreading, or Nioxin bleaching my scalp, no other reaction apart from that, I rang their support, and of course they have had no instances of people reporting the same problem, your thoughts would be appreciated, thanks

    1. Hi Art,

      We’ve never heard of instances of Nioxin bleaching the scalp, but that doesn’t mean it hasn’t occurred.

      Of course, since you do have a condition where that may happen, then I’d say it’s more likely to be the vitiligo.

      Regards,

      Steph

  46. I have never had a problem with nioxin. I do; however, have a thyroid problem that has attributed towards hair loss snd nioxin helped control that.

  47. So i am on somewhere around week 2-3 of using Nioxin. Sometimes my hair appears to be thicker only after i get out of the shower. I have just started to notice an increase of shedding all over my head not just on the front where i was concerned for hair loss. I would say im inbetween a nw2-nw3. Now my hair is falling out all over in very obvious amounts. I have read that nioxin can cause some shedding because its unclogs pours so certain hair that was stuck in sebrum build up are being realeased. Should I keep using it and hope that this shedding is a postive factor like mioxidil or should i give it up. After reading alot of negative experiences im leaning towards giving it up. Also these hairs being shed do have some white bulbs would that be normal or abnormal just wondering if the hair loss is directly corelated to the nioxin im assuming it is

  48. I’m a woman in my 60s and getting increasingly concerned about how thin my hair was getting, I hate seeing my shiny scalp through the hair. Nioxin has worked really well for me, my scalp feels great, it felt sort of tender for a while but that has gone. I have to be careful as I don’t like the sticky feeling if I put too much of the treatment on but I can’t see my scalp anymore so I am happy.

  49. I have been using Nioxin 4 colour safe shampoo and conditioner for a couple of years now. I want to stop using it but was wondering if there are any negative side effects to stopping use of these products. Your advice would be hugely appreciated. Thank you!

  50. I used Monat products for this same purpose of losing hair. I kept my hair in plastic sandwich bags to see when and which products helped or not helped hair thinning. Monat was the worst!! So, I started the Nioxin 6 system. Hardly and hair fell out for a month! This was working so well, I had my sister try it and she, too, loves it. I thought i would give the system 4 a whirl for finer hair. More hair started to fall out with this one. I am going back to system 6 since I had such good results with it. My physician told me to go the store and buy Rogaine for women. I have not done that yet, but I may try that to see if it will help regrow my hair on the crown of my head. Until then, I will continue to use the system 6 for thickening my hair.

  51. Been using Nioxin 4 shampoo and conditioner about 6 month. Saw some regrowth but mostly I am seeing, rather feeling, extremely dry hair. I no linger use the conditioner as it left my hair dry and am ready to stop the shampoo for the same reason. Brittle does not even come close to desctibing it

  52. I can see by the comments that there are a variety of results. Mine were on the “very” positive side. I saw fine manageable hair, and regrowth along the scalp line. Since being off, mainly to finish up my Paul Mitchell supply, I want to go back on it. I especially miss the conditioner. Since this article is a semi-ad for a different product, I am surprised it is allowing positive comments for Nioxin instead of his referenced line or regime. My non-biased “advice” is just to try it for yourself and give it some time for your system to get used to it. Please don’t follow up with junk e-mails, they will just be deleted and added to my other junk mail…

  53. Different things work for different people. I’ve been using Nioxin for 4 months and I’m pleased with the results.

  54. Hi, I have been using Nioxin products for several years, I have not had any reactions, but my scalp get itchy sometimes and hair still falls, I have been told if I discontinue it will be worse, so I am afraid to discontinue it, I don’t see much help at all. What should I do, I am in my seventies (age) or should keep using it? advise me, please!

  55. I have been using it for a few weeks now, I’ve noticed it is working. but my scalp is so dry. one other side effect I have noticed is I’ve been getting headaches every single time I use it. I thought maybe I was just getting headaches anyway. I left it a few days and the headaches went away. I then used it again and within a few hours my head was banging. it’s worse than a headache it’s like a migraine. yeah it is working for me like it should. but I think I might stop using it. it is not worth the headaches. also I’ve noticed it is making me feel sicky. so I have noticed other symptoms that is not stated. the way it’s made me feel using it I’d rather lose my hair in all honesty. it is not worth it.

  56. Thanks for the good info.

    My hairdresser told me that I should use it and just ordered this hair system. I have not used it yet, but after reading the reviews on this site saved me so much. Will not use it, thanks again.

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