Gen Z & Haarausfall: Warum junge Menschen jetzt Anti-Haarausfall-Produkte kaufen

More hair than usual is appearing in the drain after showering, and brushes are collecting increasing amounts of strands. For many, this is a startling realization – especially for those still in their twenties. What was once considered a problem primarily affecting men over 40 is now increasingly impacting Generation Z, and they are responding with a surge in purchases.

Anti-Hair Loss Products See a Boom

Recent sales data from online retailer “Galaxus” shows that young people are turning to serums, oils, and specialized shampoos earlier than ever before. In 2022, approximately one in 100 people under 25 purchased a product against hair loss. Three years later, that number has risen to one in ten, currently standing at around 16 percent.

The demand is also significantly increasing among those aged 25 to 34, with their share of purchases doubling to around 40 percent within five years. By January 2026, those under 35 accounted for more than half of all sales in this category.

Did You Know? Up to 70 percent of men and around 40 percent of women will experience hair loss during their lifetime, according to estimations.

It remains unclear whether more young people are actually experiencing hair loss, or if preventative measures, social media trends, and societal beauty standards are playing a role. However, it’s clear that this issue is a significant concern for Gen Z.

A Widespread Problem with Psychological Impact

Hair loss is not a rare occurrence. Estimates suggest that up to 70 percent of men and around 40 percent of women will be affected during their lives. Androgenetic alopecia, a genetically determined condition, is common in men, while hormonal changes or stress can contribute to hair loss in women.

What may seem like a cosmetic change can have a profound impact on many. Studies indicate that thinning hair can significantly diminish self-esteem. Those affected report feelings of shame, social withdrawal, and a decreased quality of life. In severe cases, it can even lead to depressive moods or anxiety. Sleep problems, exhaustion, and mood swings are also not uncommon.

Notably, hair loss is no longer solely a male concern. According to “Galaxus,” two out of every three anti-hair loss oils and serums are now purchased by women. This is a significant increase from five years ago. Whether women are buying these products for themselves or for partners is unknown.

Expert Insight: The increasing awareness and open discussion of hair loss, particularly among younger generations, may be driving the demand for preventative products, even in the absence of significant hair loss. This highlights a growing focus on proactive self-care and appearance management.

This trend demonstrates that the desire for thick, healthy hair affects both genders – and increasingly, younger demographics.

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Many Promises, Limited Results

As concern grows, the market for hair loss solutions is flourishing. Shampoos, tonics, and serums boldly promise to stop hair loss or stimulate new growth. Influencers promote before-and-after photos, and algorithms suggest relevant products – and the hope sells well.

The problem is that many over-the-counter products cannot stop actual hair loss. They can nourish the scalp, strengthen existing hair, or create the appearance of fullness. However, they often fall short of addressing the underlying causes – such as genetic predisposition, hormonal changes, or nutritional deficiencies.

If you notice significant thinning, it’s advisable to seek professional help rather than relying solely on drugstore products. Dermatologists recommend getting the cause of hair loss medically evaluated. Only then can targeted treatment be implemented – potentially with medically proven active ingredients or individualized therapy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What percentage of people under 25 were buying hair loss products in 2022?

Approximately one in 100 people under 25 purchased a product against hair loss in 2022.

What percentage of sales in the anti-hair loss category are now made up of customers under 35?

By January 2026, those under 35 accounted for more than half of all sales in this category.

Are more women purchasing anti-hair loss products now than in the past?

Yes, according to “Galaxus,” two out of every three anti-hair loss oils and serums are now purchased by women, a significant increase from five years ago.

What steps will you take to prioritize your overall hair health and well-being?