I've been dealing with hair loss and thinning strands for years (shout-out to stress and genetics!), so as a beauty writer with access to lots of products, I've tried anything and everything that claims to help strengthen, thicken, or grow. Most of them don't do a single thing (for me, at least). Am I jaded? Abso-freaking-lutely.
Still, I haven't lost all hope. In fact, when the new Dove Scalp + Hair Therapy Fullness Restore Scalp Serum—created to give the appearance of fuller-looking hair—appeared on my radar, I made the affirmative choice to be optimistic. The truth is that I trust Dove as a brand (its iconic Sensitive Skin Beauty Bar has been a staple of mine for nearly a decade), and I know it doesn't put out products just to capitalize on trends, or without having the science to back up its claims.
So for a few weeks, I ditched all my other hair products and used nothing but this serum and the brand's Scalp + Hair Therapy Hydrating Shampoo and Strengthening Conditioner. When used together, the system has been shown to "lead to thicker-looking hair by preventing premature breakage," according to the brand.
And now I'm so happy to report that this under-$10 serum, and the rest of the Dove Scalp + Hair Therapy collection, are the Real Deal. No, the product didn't transform my hairline overnight (it's not a regrowth treatment, so I should be realistic here)—but in just a few short weeks I have noticed a legit difference in the look of my hair. Without further ado, here are my favorite things about the Scalp + Hair Therapy Fullness Restore Scalp Serum.
It Doesn't Aggravate My Sensitive Scalp
My scalp is prone to redness, flaking, and irritation, and I've tried a lot of products that are supposed to nourish but just end up exacerbating these symptoms. When I first gave the Dove formula a go, I expected to feel a stinging sensation at the least, but to my surprise (and delight), it never came. And the next morning, my scalp looked and felt great—zero sign of redness or flakeage. With such an A+ first impression, I resolved to keep at it.
It Contains Clinically Proven Ingredients
I've found some scalp serums to be harsh and drying, but this one—which, BTW, was developed in collaboration with derms—is different. The brand points out that the weightless moisturizing serum is made with clinically proven actives that are backed by science (we love to see it), including niacinamide (aka vitamin B3), peptides, zinc, and glycerin. Together, these MVPs help strengthen and hydrate the scalp barrier to create a healthy environment and boost visible hair density, while also nourishing hair follicles and fortifying the roots.
It Fits Seamlessly Into My Daily Hair Routine
I cannot stand scalp serums that weigh down my already-limp hair or leave greasy residue behind. That's not the case with this one. The formula is air-light, sinks in super-quickly, and actually makes my fine hair look fuller, which is why it's such a game-changer. After using the Scalp+ Hair Therapy Hydrating Shampoo and Strengthening Conditioner, I apply it by dividing my hair into sections from front to back and dispensing full droppers on areas of concern, including my hairline and center part. Then I massage it in and style. Dove recommends doing this three times a week (on damp or dry hair) for best results.
Dove Scalp + Hair Therapy Hydrating Shampoo
Dove Scalp + Hair Therapy Strengthening Conditioner
It Does the Job
Since I began using the Fullness Restore Scalp Serum, my scalp has become more hydrated and my strands feel stronger. I'm noticing a fuller appearance around my temples, where I've experienced the most thinning. Props to Dove for reigniting my faith in effective haircare.
If you, too, have been battling thinning hair and limp-looking strands for what feels like forever, I definitely recommend picking up a bottle. It'll give your scalp some love, and your hair a boost along the way.
Kaleigh Fasanella is a freelance beauty and wellness writer with a passion for amplifying the voices of people with chronic skin conditions. You can find her work in outlets like Allure, Teen Vogue, Byrdie, The Zoe Report, Bustle, Dazed Beauty, and more. She holds a journalism degree from Penn State University, and in addition to editorial, she consults for brands and does some copywriting. Feel free to keep up with her on Instagram @kaleighfaz.
