The cult shampoo that claims to stimulate hair follicles. Genuinely decent shampoo regardless. Last updated: 7 March 2026.
From £6.48 for 250ml · £0.02/ml best value
| Retailer | Price | Per ml | Shipping | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon UK ★ Best Buy | £5.99 | £0.024/ml | Free (Prime) | Buy Now → |
| Superdrug | £6.49 | £0.026/ml | Free over £10 | Buy Now → |
| Boots | £6.99 | £0.028/ml | Free over £25 | Buy Now → |
| Retailer | Price | Per ml | Shipping | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon UK ★ Best Buy | £8.49 | £0.021/ml | Free (Prime) | Buy Now → |
| Superdrug | £9.49 | £0.024/ml | Free over £10 | Buy Now → |
| Boots | £9.99 | £0.025/ml | Free over £25 | Buy Now → |
| Retailer | Price | Per ml | Shipping | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon UK ★ Best Buy — Best per-ml | £11.99 | £0.020/ml | Free (Prime) | Buy Now → |
| Boots | £12.99 | £0.022/ml | Free over £25 | Buy Now → |
| Superdrug | £12.49 | £0.021/ml | Free over £10 | Buy Now → |
Alpecin Caffeine Shampoo C1 has become something of a cult product in the UK grooming scene. The German brand's big claim is that the caffeine in the formula penetrates the scalp and stimulates hair follicles, potentially helping with hair loss.
The science is debatable — some studies show caffeine can extend the growth phase of hair, but real-world results vary. What isn't debatable is that as a shampoo itself, it's actually pretty decent. It cleans well, has a fresh tingly sensation, and leaves hair looking healthy.
How to use: The recommended routine is to massage into damp hair, leave it on for 2 minutes (the "contact time" for the caffeine to work), then rinse. Some guys skip the wait and just use it like normal shampoo — still works fine.
Who should try it: Guys noticing early signs of thinning who want a low-risk, low-cost first step. At under £6, you've got nothing to lose. Just don't expect miracles if you're already significantly bald.
Here's how Alpecin stacks up against other popular options:
| Product | Key Ingredient | Price (250ml) | Per ml | Our Take |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpecin Caffeine ← you're here | Caffeine | £5.99 | £0.024/ml | ⭐⭐⭐ Good value |
| Nizoral Shampoo | Ketoconazole | £9.99 | £0.040/ml | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Clinical |
| Regaine Foam | Minoxidil | £29.99 | £0.120/ml | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Proven |
| 华夏生发洗发水 | Herbal blend | £8.99 | £0.036/ml | ⭐⭐ Unproven |
Honest assessment: For the price, Alpecin is worth a shot. If you're serious about hair loss, chat with your GP about finasteride or minoxidil — those actually have clinical evidence.
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