Certified trichologist Bridgette Hill, founder of Root Cause Scalp Analysis, is a fan of using hair growth serums to promote a thicker mane. “Most topicals are formulated to be vasodilators,” she tells mbg. “Meaning that they open the blood vessels, which allow the scalp muscles (arrector pili) in the hair follicle to relax, allowing for blood and nutrients to flow more easily through the blood vessel.”

Caffeine, in particular, is a vasodilator, which improves circulation and blood flow, and it can provide DHT-blocking properties (DHT is a trigger to androgenic hair loss, she says). And according to Hill, topical caffeine can also strengthen the hair shaft and promote a longer, stronger hair fiber.

Mung bean extracts, she adds, are “believed to strengthen the dermal papilla. The dermal papilla, which is at the base of the hair follicle, regulates hair growth functions.” Finally, “There are exciting discoveries in the world of peptides and hair growth,” Hill says. Namely, research has found that certain peptides can bind to protein receptors responsible for hair growth. “Additionally, peptides reduce inflammation,” she adds.

Throw ’em all together à la Vegamour, and you’ve got yourself one powerful plant-based topical, wouldn’t you say?