Amaranth and Hair Loss in Men: What Does It Do?

When a man’s hair starts to look finer, more fragile or less full, choosing the right shampoo becomes more important than it may seem.

Shampoo should do more than remove oil, sweat and impurities. In a routine specifically formulated for hair that is prone to weakening, it can also become the first step in strengthening the hair fibre, caring for the scalp and preparing the hair for the treatment that follows.

Among the botanical actives attracting increasing interest in hair care is amaranth, found in the DENSEL Strengthening Shampoo by HOMO NATURALS.

But what can amaranth really do for hair? Why include it in a hair loss shampoo for men? Is it relevant when hair begins to lose thickness and density? And what does current research say about this ingredient?

We look at its role and explain why choosing the right shampoo can be particularly relevant when the first signs of hair weakening appear.

Contents

• What is amaranth?
• Why is amaranth used in hair care products?
• What does amaranth bring to a hair loss shampoo for men?
• Benefits of amaranth for hair
• Amaranth, hair thickness and the appearance of density
• Can amaranth stop hair loss?
• What does science say about amaranth and hair?
• Why does shampoo matter when hair loss is a concern?
• Why choose a sulphate-free hair loss shampoo?
• Amaranth in DENSEL Strengthening Shampoo
• Amaranth and other actives: a formula designed as a complete system
• How to use a hair loss shampoo correctly
• Hair loss shampoo and hair density serum: different and complementary roles
• When should you see a dermatologist about hair loss?
• Frequently asked questions about amaranth and hair loss shampoo for men

What is amaranth?

Amaranth belongs to the botanical genus Amaranthus, which includes different species that have been used for centuries, primarily for their nutritional value.

Its seeds have a particularly interesting profile of proteins, amino acids and other plant compounds. Over time, certain amaranth extracts have also begun to be used in cosmetics and hair care because of their affinity with the hair fibre and their strengthening potential.

In hair care formulation, the point is not simply to add a well-known plant to an ingredient list, but to select actives that perform a specific function within the product.

In a shampoo formulated for fine, weakened hair or hair that is losing density, amaranth is particularly interesting because of its relationship with hair-fibre strength and body.

Why is amaranth used in hair care products?

To understand its relevance, we first need to distinguish between two concepts that are often confused: hair loss and loss of density.

Hair can look less dense because more strands are being shed from the follicle, but also because the hair fibres have become finer, more fragile or more prone to breakage.

The amount of visible hair therefore depends on several factors:

• the number of hairs present;
• the diameter of each hair fibre;
• hair strength;
• the degree of breakage;
• the stage of the hair cycle the follicles are in;
• the overall condition of the scalp.

That is why an advanced hair care strategy should not focus exclusively on counting the hairs that are shed.

Strengthening the hair that remains is also essential for preserving the appearance of density.

And this is precisely where amaranth becomes particularly relevant in a strengthening shampoo.

What does amaranth bring to a hair loss shampoo for men?

In a shampoo designed for men’s hair that is prone to weakening, amaranth can primarily perform a strengthening role on the hair fibre.

The aim is to support a stronger structure and greater body in the hair.

This is especially relevant when a man begins to notice:

• progressively finer hair;
• less volume;
• greater fragility;
• hair that breaks easily;
• a reduced sense of density;
• hair fibres that appear weaker.

A well-formulated hair loss shampoo should therefore not be understood simply as a product that cleans while promising to “stop hair loss”.

Its role within a hair care strategy is more precise: to cleanse the scalp properly, protect the quality of the existing hair, strengthen the fibre and prepare it for the care that follows.

Benefits of amaranth for hair

1. Strengthens the hair fibre

Hair is made primarily of keratin and, once it emerges from the follicle, the fibre is continually exposed to friction, washing, drying, environmental exposure and different forms of mechanical stress.

When this structure loses strength, it becomes more prone to breakage.

Amaranth is included in certain hair care formulas for its ability to reinforce the hair fibre and improve its resistance.

2. Gives hair greater body

When we talk about hair density, the diameter of each strand matters.

Hundreds or thousands of slightly finer hair fibres can create a noticeable visual change in overall hair volume.

For this reason, strengthening the fibre and adding body are particularly relevant when the aim is to improve the appearance of density in fine or weakened hair.

3. Reduces the visible impact of hair fragility

Breakage is not the same as hair shedding from the root.

However, both can make the hair appear progressively less abundant.

Working on the strength of the hair fibre helps preserve the existing hair more effectively and is an important part of any care strategy for men experiencing a loss of volume.

Amaranth, hair thickness and the appearance of density

One common mistake when talking about density is to associate it exclusively with the number of follicles. Visually, the density we perceive also depends on the thickness of the hair fibres.

Imagine two areas with a similar number of hairs. If the fibres in one area have a smaller diameter, the scalp will be more visible and the impression of density will be lower.

This is particularly relevant in men because, in certain types of hair loss, individual hairs can become progressively finer.

That is why, in DENSEL Strengthening Shampoo, we selected amaranth specifically for its strengthening role and its ability to give the hair fibre greater body.

Can amaranth stop hair loss?

This question requires a precise answer.

Amaranth should not be presented as an ingredient capable, on its own, of stopping every type of hair loss.

Hair loss can occur for many different reasons, including:

• genetic predisposition;
• hormonal activity;
• stress;
• changes in the hair cycle;
• certain nutritional deficiencies;
• illness;
• medication;
• inflammatory processes affecting the scalp;
• androgenetic alopecia.

A cosmetic ingredient cannot address all of these mechanisms on its own.

The main relevance of amaranth in a hair loss shampoo lies elsewhere: strengthening and improving the quality of the hair fibre as part of a routine designed for hair that is prone to weakening and loss of density.

In addition, recent research has investigated certain Amaranthus extracts in relation to the follicle and the hair cycle, making this plant a particularly interesting active within hair research.

What does science say about amaranth and hair?

Interest in amaranth is not limited to its properties on the hair fibre.

In 2025, the Journal of Integrative and Complementary Medicine published a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group clinical trial investigating a topical formulation containing Amaranthus extract in men with male pattern hair loss.

The study included 50 men aged 25 to 45 with clinically diagnosed male pattern hair loss. For 90 days, participants applied approximately 2 grams per day of either a cream containing amaranth extract or a placebo formulation to the target area.

The researchers assessed several parameters related to the hair and follicle, including:

• terminal hair density;
• hair fibre diameter;
• anagen hair density;
• telogen hair density;
• the relationship between the anagen and telogen phases;
• other indicators associated with follicular condition.

After 90 days, the group using the formulation containing amaranth extract showed favourable results across several of these parameters.

Terminal hair density increased by 28% from baseline in the amaranth group, compared with 15% in the placebo group.

Likewise, the number and density of hairs in the anagen phase increased by 54% from baseline, compared with 17.5% in the placebo group.

Improvements were also observed in other parameters related to follicular health and the relationship between the different phases of the hair cycle.

The authors concluded that the topical formulation containing Amaranthus extract produced significant improvements in anagen hair density and in certain indicators related to follicular condition.

What does this study actually mean?

The findings are promising and support the scientific interest in amaranth within hair care and hair research.

However, the study needs to be interpreted correctly.

The research evaluated a specific topical formulation in cream form, applied daily for 90 days under defined conditions. It did not study a shampoo or DENSEL Strengthening Shampoo.

For this reason, the results and percentages obtained in this trial cannot be directly extrapolated to every product containing amaranth.

It would also be incorrect to claim that a shampoo containing amaranth increases hair growth by 54% or reproduces exactly the results observed in the trial.

What this research does show is that Amaranthus has attracted genuine scientific interest in relation to certain parameters of hair density, the anagen phase and follicular health.

At HOMO NATURALS, we believe this distinction matters. Talking about high-performance ingredients also means explaining precisely what we know, what has been studied and what cannot yet be claimed.

Why does shampoo matter when hair loss is a concern?

Shampoo is often seen as the least important part of a hair loss routine because it is rinsed off after use.

But this overlooks something fundamental.

Every hair care treatment begins with the condition in which we leave the scalp and hair fibre during cleansing.

An overly aggressive shampoo can cleanse by removing more lipids than necessary, while a poorly suited formula may leave residue behind or fail to manage excess oil effectively.

When hair loss, thinning or loss of volume is a concern, it makes sense to use a shampoo specifically designed to:

• cleanse the scalp;
• remove excess oil and impurities;
• preserve its balance;
• strengthen the hair fibre;
• reduce fragility;
• give the hair greater body;
• prepare it for a subsequent treatment.

That is why we consider shampoo the first step in a hair loss care strategy, rather than simply a cleansing product.

Why choose a sulphate-free hair loss shampoo?

A shampoo’s cleansing ability depends on the surfactants used in its formula.

When the scalp is going to receive ongoing care, the aim is not to create the most aggressive possible sensation of cleanliness, but to remove oil, sweat and residue effectively while preserving the scalp’s balance.

For this reason, DENSEL Strengthening Shampoo uses a sulphate-free cleansing system.

The aim is to cleanse the hair and scalp gently while the strengthening and conditioning actives work on the hair fibre.

Amaranth in DENSEL Strengthening Shampoo by HOMO NATURALS

When we developed DENSEL Hair System Shampoo, we wanted to go beyond the conventional idea of shampoo.

We wanted a formula that cleansed effectively while also being specifically designed for men beginning to notice finer, weakened, fragile hair or reduced density.

Amaranth has a central role within this approach.

Amaranth: strength and visible density

Its role in DENSEL Strengthening Shampoo is focused on reinforcing the hair fibre and giving fine or weakened hair greater body.

But we did not want the performance of the shampoo to depend on a single ingredient.

That is why we developed a broader botanical formula in which each group of actives performs a complementary role.

Amaranth and other actives: a formula designed as a complete system

Rosemary and Serenoa serrulata

Two botanical actives specifically selected for a formula designed for men’s hair that is prone to weakening, thinning or loss of density.

Green tea

Provides antioxidant compounds that complement scalp care in relation to oxidative stress.

Aloe vera

Supports scalp hydration and balance.

Mint

Provides a toning effect and a revitalizing sensation during cleansing.

Coconut oil

Particularly interesting for the hair fibre because of its ability to protect against protein loss and reduce fragility.

Castor oil and shea butter

Complete the formula by conditioning the hair fibre and maintaining its flexibility and softness.

The result is a formula in which amaranth is not simply a highlighted ingredient on the label.

It forms part of an architecture designed to cleanse, strengthen, protect and revitalize men’s hair from the very first step of the routine.

Who is a shampoo with amaranth particularly suitable for?

A strengthening shampoo containing amaranth can be particularly relevant when some of the following signs appear:

• fine hair;
• less volume than before;
• weakened hair fibre;
• hair that breaks easily;
• a progressive reduction in the appearance of density;
• a tendency towards hair loss;
• excess oil on the scalp;
• early signs of hair weakening.

There is no need to wait until the loss of density becomes very noticeable before paying closer attention to hair quality.

In fact, preserving the strength and body of the hair fibre before weakening becomes advanced is particularly consistent with a preventive hair care strategy.

How to use a hair loss shampoo correctly

Washing technique matters too.

1. Wet the hair thoroughly

Water allows the product to distribute properly and makes it easier to remove oil and impurities.

2. Apply the shampoo mainly to the scalp

The main focus of cleansing is not the ends of the hair, but the area where sebum, sweat and residue accumulate.

3. Massage gently

Distribute DENSEL Strengthening Shampoo with a gentle massage using your fingertips.

There is no need to use intense friction to achieve effective cleansing.

4. Work the lather through the rest of the hair

The lather itself can cleanse the hair fibres without the need to rub them aggressively.

5. Rinse thoroughly

Remove the product completely before continuing with the rest of your routine.

Hair loss shampoo and hair density serum: different and complementary roles

Although this article focuses on the importance of amaranth in DENSEL Strengthening Shampoo, a complete approach to loss of density does not necessarily need to end after rinsing.

Shampoo and serum perform different roles.

Step 1 — DENSEL Strengthening Shampoo

During cleansing, it purifies the hair and scalp and works particularly on strengthening and protecting the hair fibre.

Step 2 — DENSEL Hair Density Serum

After washing, the leave-in treatment is applied directly to the scalp and hair fibre.

Its role within the system is different: it delivers a concentrated treatment with its own specific actives and extends hair care after the shampoo has been rinsed away.

This distinction is precisely why DENSEL Hair System is structured around two complementary steps.

First we cleanse, strengthen and prepare. Then we treat.

Discover the DENSEL hair loss treatment: Shampoo + Serum →

Can a hair loss shampoo treat androgenetic alopecia?

A product specifically designed for hair care should not be confused with a medical treatment for alopecia.

Androgenetic alopecia is a condition influenced mainly by genetic and hormonal factors that causes progressive miniaturization of certain hair follicles.

A shampoo such as DENSEL can form part of the hair care routine of a man prone to loss of density by strengthening the hair fibre, preserving its quality and keeping the scalp properly cared for.

However, it should not be considered a substitute for medical treatment when androgenetic alopecia has been diagnosed.

When should you see a dermatologist about hair loss?

It is advisable to seek professional assessment when:

• hair loss starts suddenly;
• clearly defined areas without hair appear;
• the hair loss progresses rapidly;
• there is inflammation, pain or intense itching;
• persistent crusting or flaking develops;
• hair is also lost from the beard, eyebrows or other areas;
• the temples or crown progressively lose density;
• there is uncertainty about the cause of the hair loss.

Understanding the cause makes it possible to distinguish between cosmetic care intended to preserve hair quality and situations that require specific medical treatment.

Frequently asked questions about amaranth and hair loss shampoo for men

What does amaranth do in a shampoo?

Amaranth is used in certain hair care formulas for its strengthening properties on the hair fibre. In DENSEL Strengthening Shampoo, it has been selected to reinforce fine or weakened hair and give it greater body and the appearance of increased density.

Is amaranth good for fine hair?

Yes. It is particularly relevant in formulas designed to strengthen the hair fibre. When hair is fine, improving its resistance and body contributes to an overall appearance of greater volume and density.

Does amaranth prevent hair loss?

Amaranth should not be claimed to prevent every type of hair loss on its own. Hair loss can have many different causes. In a shampoo, its main relevance is related to strengthening the hair fibre and caring for weakened hair.

Does amaranth make hair grow?

There is interesting scientific research on specific topical formulations containing Amaranthus extract and certain parameters related to hair growth. However, these findings do not support a general claim that any product containing amaranth will regrow lost hair.

Is eating amaranth also beneficial for hair?

Yes. Amaranth can form part of a balanced diet and provides nutrients of interest such as proteins, amino acids and minerals. Adequate nutrition is important for maintaining normal hair because certain nutritional deficiencies can be associated with hair weakening or shedding.

However, eating amaranth should not be regarded as a specific treatment for hair loss. In the absence of a nutritional deficiency, there is currently insufficient evidence to claim that increasing amaranth intake will make more hair grow or stop alopecia.

Dietary use and cosmetic use of amaranth also serve different functions. When eaten, its nutrients become part of the body’s overall nutritional intake. In a hair care product, by contrast, a specific extract is selected and incorporated directly into a formula designed for the hair and scalp.

For this reason, a balanced diet and targeted hair care can be understood as two complementary approaches. In DENSEL Strengthening Shampoo, we use amaranth extract topically within a formula specifically developed to strengthen the hair fibre, give greater body to fine or weakened hair and care for the hair from the first step of the routine.

Are there scientific studies on amaranth and hair loss?

Yes. In 2025, a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial was published involving 50 men aged 25 to 45 with male pattern hair loss. Over 90 days, a topical formulation containing Amaranthus extract was evaluated and significant improvements were observed in certain parameters, including terminal hair density and the amount of hair in the anagen phase.

The results are promising and support the scientific interest in amaranth within hair care. However, the study evaluated a specific topical formulation rather than a shampoo, so its results cannot be directly extrapolated to every product containing amaranth.

What results did the clinical study on amaranth report?

After 90 days, the group using the amaranth formulation showed a 28% increase from baseline in terminal hair density, compared with 15% in the placebo group. The amount and density of hair in the anagen phase increased by 54% from baseline, compared with 17.5% with placebo.

These percentages apply exclusively to the formulation and specific conditions used in the study. They should not be interpreted as results attributable to every cosmetic product containing amaranth.

Does this study prove that a shampoo containing amaranth is effective?

No. The trial investigated a specific topical formulation in cream form, applied daily for 90 days. It did not evaluate a shampoo. The findings are relevant to understanding the scientific interest in amaranth, but they do not demonstrate that every shampoo containing this ingredient will produce the same effects.

Why use amaranth in a shampoo if it is rinsed off?

Shampoo does more than cleanse. During washing, a targeted formula can include strengthening and conditioning ingredients designed to improve the condition of the hair fibre. Shampoo also determines the condition in which both the hair and scalp are left before any subsequent treatment is applied.

Is a sulphate-free hair loss shampoo better?

That does not depend solely on whether a formula contains sulphates, but on the formula as a whole. With DENSEL, we chose a sulphate-free cleansing system to purify the hair and scalp while respecting their balance as part of an ongoing care routine.

Does DENSEL Strengthening Shampoo contain amaranth?

Yes. DENSEL Strengthening Shampoo contains Amaranthus Caudatus Seed Extract alongside rosemary, Serenoa serrulata, green tea, aloe vera, mint and different plant oils and ingredients selected to strengthen and care for the hair.

Can I use DENSEL Strengthening Shampoo on its own?

Yes. The shampoo can be used independently as a targeted product for cleansing and strengthening fine or weakened hair. For a more complete hair care strategy, it can then be combined with DENSEL Hair Density Serum.

Does DENSEL Hair Density Serum have the same role as the shampoo?

No. They are two complementary products. The shampoo cleanses, strengthens the hair fibre and prepares the hair and scalp during washing. The serum is a targeted leave-in treatment that is applied afterwards and remains in contact with the scalp and hair.

Amaranth in a hair loss shampoo: strengthening hair from the first step

When hair loss is a concern, it can be tempting to look for a single ingredient that will solve the problem.

The reality of hair care is more complex.

The density we see depends on the follicle and the hair cycle, but also on the thickness, strength and quality of each existing hair fibre.

That is why amaranth has a very specific role in DENSEL Strengthening Shampoo by HOMO NATURALS: to reinforce weakened hair and give the fibre greater body from the very first step of the routine.

Its combination with rosemary, Serenoa serrulata, green tea, aloe vera, mint, coconut oil, castor oil and shea butter creates a more complete formula in which cleansing, strengthening and scalp care form part of the same approach.

And for more intensive care, the shampoo forms the first step of DENSEL Hair System, followed by DENSEL Hair Density Serum.

Hair care starts at the scalp. And a good strategy starts with cleansing.

Discover DENSEL Strengthening Shampoo →