Introduction to Hair Growth Supplements and Vitamins
Hair loss is a major problem for many people, and there are a number of solutions on the market which help stimulate growth. Among them, supplements and vitamins are a good option. They are usually full of enriching organic ingredients known to initiate hair growth and thickness, nourish, and promote health and a shiny appearance.
“It’s best to read labels and check for ingredients we really want,” says Debra Jaliman, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist in New York City and the author of Skin Rules.
In this article, we’ll give you all the information you need to choose the best hair growth supplement or vitamin for you. We’ll also present the top products, according to experts in the fields of hair loss and dermatology.
Who Should Buy Hair Growth Supplements and Vitamins?
Supplements and vitamins for hair growth are for either men or women who have experienced some degree of hair loss, or serious shedding and breakage.
According to Dendy Engelman, M.D. board-certified dermatologic surgeon, “Hair growth supplements are helpful for anyone who is experiencing hair loss, thinning, or for those who just want thicker or longer hair (1).”
Of course, there are prescription remedies available, but these are brands are for consumers who are looking for a natural, organic solution which both supports growth and provides their hair with nutrients to boost its health.
Best Hair Supplements and Vitamins
- Folexin
- Divine Locks
- Kintsugi KeraNew
- Valotin
- Hair La Vie
- Goodbye Grey
- Har Vokse
- Sugarbear Hair Vegan Vitamin Gummies
- OLLY Ultra Strength Hair Softgels
- Love Wellness Healthy Hair Probiotics
- Moon Juice SuperHair Daily Hair Nutrition Supplement
- Vibrance Hair Growth Vitamins
- Nutrafol
- Viviscal
- Keranique KeraViatin
- ScalpMED
The best vitamins and supplements for hair growth—here are our favourites:
Best Hair Supplement for Fast Results | Folexin |
Top Rated Hair Growth Supplement | Divine Locks |
Best Vitamins for Growing Hair | Kintsugi KeraNew |
Best Hair Supplement for Hair Loss | Valotin |
Best Hair Supplement for Thickness | Hair La Vie Clinical Formula Hair Vitamins |
Best Hair Supplement for Breakage | Goodbye Grey |
Best Hair Supplement for Strength | Har Vokse |
Best Vegan Vitamins Supplement | Sugarbear Hair Vegan Vitamin Gummies |
Best Hair Loss Vitamins | OLLY Ultra Strength Hair Softgels |
Best for Thicker Hair | Love Wellness Healthy Hair Probiotics |
Best for Stronger Hair | Moon Juice SuperHair Daily Hair Nutrition Supplement |
Best Biotin & OptiMSM Supplement | Vibrance Hair Growth Vitamins |
Best Hair Growth Supplements for Men and Women | Nutrafol |
Best Hair Growth Vitamins and Hair Care Products for Men | Viviscal |
Best Hair & Scalp Health Supplement | Keranique KeraViatin |
Best Hair Regrowth Treatment for Men | ScalpMED |
It’s important to note that not every hair growth vitamin and supplement will work for everyone, and your results may vary.
Best Hair Growth Vitamins & Supplements
When it comes to hair growth supplements and vitamins, the market is full of numerous options. It can be hard to know which to choose, so our experts performed an in-depth analysis of many of the available products and picked out the top brands available today. Here are their selections:
Folexin
Folexin is an all-natural hair growth supplement which promotes hair growth, thickness, and general health. It’s incredibly rich in vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients that nourish the hair and follicles deeply and offer anti-aging benefits for optimal hair wellness. The customer reviews for this supplement were highly positive, with many users delighted with the benefits it provided them and their hair.
Pros
- Folexin includes a very complete list of high-quality ingredients.
- The price is reasonable and below average for the market.
- Vita Balance is a reputable manufacturer.
Cons
- Folexin contains soy, which some users can’t consume.
- The speed of hair growth will vary for each user.
Key Ingredients
Nettle Extract, Bamboo, L-Tyrosine, Horsetail Extract, Alfalfa, Barley Grass, Fo-Ti, Spirulina, Saw Palmetto, Vitamins A, E, C, B Vitamins, Magnesium, Zinc, Manganese, Potassium
Key Facts
Brand: Folexin | Manufacturer: Vita Balance | Health Concern: Hair Support, Hair Growth | Unit Count: 60 Capsules | Features: Vegetarian Friendly, Non-GMO, and Gluten Free
Divine Locks
Divine Locks is a hair supplement designed to promote hair growth and improve hair health. The product comes in capsule form and is taken three times a day. The Divine Locks Complex is made with natural and high-quality ingredients, including collagen, which plays a significant role in healing wounds and promoting hair growth. The product is developed by Kayla Rochin, who has ensured that the ingredients used are of the best quality and sourced from various locations. Divine Locks is suitable for women of all ages and hair types, making it a versatile option for those looking to improve their hair health.
Pros
- Promotes the body’s natural hair growth process
- For all ages and hair types.
- This supplement is paraben-free, and cruelty free.
Cons
- You have to take 3 Capsules per day.
- Expensive for some.
Key Ingredients
Indian Gooseberry, Fo-Ti, Silica, Grape Seed Extract, Gotu Kola, Seaweed Extract
Key Facts
Brand: So Journey | Unit Count: 90 Capsules | Dosage: 3 Capsules Per Day
Kintsugi KeraNew
Kintsugi KeraNew is a unique hair care formula that helps combat the signs of aging hair from within. It nourishes the scalp and strengthens strands from the inside out using a blend of proteins and natural extracts. This targeted formula tackles nutrient deficiencies that can prevent hair from looking its youthful best.
By feeding hair the nutrients it needs, Kintsugi KeraNew promotes the appearance of fuller, more voluminous strands. It gives hair a silkier, glossier feel and feel that is easy to style. The formula helps hair withstand damage from heat styling, environmental pollution, chemical exposure, and harsh weather. Kintsugi KeraNew is perfect for strengthening, revitalizing, hydrating, and repairing hair. Its all-natural ingredients nourish each strand to reduce breakage and split ends. Look for kintsugi hair pills reviews for further information.
Pros
- Doctor and scientist formulated.
- It is recommended by doctors and hair experts.
- 90-Day money-back guarantee.
Cons
- Expensive compared to other similar products.
- One bottle can last only 15 days.
Key Ingredients
Keratin, Hydrolyzed Collagen, Hyaluronic Acid
Key Facts
Brand: Kintsugi | Unit Count: 60 Capsules | Dosage: 2 Capsules Per Day
Valotin
Valotin is a luxurious brand of hair growth products consisting of shampoo, conditioner, serum, and supplements. They promise to initiate hair growth, thickness, and overall health with a rich collection of vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients. In addition, they can cleanse, soften, and eliminate odor from the hair.
Pros
- These are natural formulas with no parabens or sulfates.
- The prices are quite reasonable.
- The products are suitable for all hair types, including color treated.
Cons
- It contains sodium, which can damage hair in excess.
- High demand can sometimes lead to low stock.
Key Ingredients
Plant Sterols, Saw Palmetto, Barley Grass, Horsetail Extract, Fo-Ti, Peony, Alfalfa, Bamboo Extract, B Vitamins, Vitamins A, C, D3, E, Biotin, Calcium, Iron, Magnesium, Potassium, Manganese, Spirulina, ale Vera, Cucumber
Price
Shampoo and Conditioner $30.95, Supplements $24.95, Serum $22.95
Key Facts
Brand: Valotin | Manufacturer: Vita Balance | Health Concern: Hair Support, Hair Growth | Unit Count: Varied | Features: Vegetarian Friendly, Non-GMO, and Gluten Free
Hair La Vie Clinical Formula Hair Vitamins
Our team of experts selected this brand as one of their favorite hair growth supplements, for its rich collection of ingredients with health benefits for the hair and body. This product can rejuvenate the hair follicles for faster, thicker growth, prevent breakage and shedding, and promote a full head of healthy hair.
Pros
- Hair La Vie is a highly reputable manufacturer.
- There’s a 90-day satisfaction guarantee.
- It can give your hair a shiny, radiant appearance.
Cons
- The price is somewhat expensive.
- The serving size of 3 capsules a day may be difficult for some people.
Key Ingredients
Reishi Mushroom, Horsetail Grass, Bamboo Stem and Leaf Extract, Hydrolyzed Collagen, Amla Fruit Extract, Flaxseed Oil Extract, Saw Palmetto, Palm Oil, Biotin, Iron, Copper, Selenium, Zinc, Niacin, Vitamins A, E, D3, B6
Key Facts
Manufacturer: Hair La Vie | Health Concern: Hair Support, Hair Growth | Unit Count: 90 capsules | Features: Vegetarian Friendly, Non-GMO, and Gluten Free | Gender: Unisex
Goodbye Grey
Goodbye Grey is a supplement which aims to reverse the grey in your hair and bring back its natural color. In addition, it promotes overall hair health, repairs damage, prevents hair loss and breakage, and promotes steady hair growth. Some experts say this brand can really turn back the hands of time and make your hair – and you – look young again.
Pros
- It can restore your natural color.
- Goodbye Grey is suitable for all hair types.
- This supplement supports general health and immunity.
Cons
- There are few, if any, places to buy it at the moment.
- The results will be different for different users.
Key Ingredients
Plant Sterols, Saw Palmetto, Horsetail, Nettle Root Extract, Fo Ti, Barley Grass Juice, Zinc, L-Tyrosine, Catalase, Chlorophyll, Biotin, Vitamin B6, Folic Acid
Key Facts
Manufacturer: Bauer Nutrition | Health Concern: Hair Support, Hair Growth | Unit Count: 90 capsules | Features: Vegetarian Friendly, Non-GMO, and Gluten Free | Gender: Unisex
Har Vokse
Har Vokse was also a top pick among our expert dermatologists and hair loss specialists, due to its very natural, organic formula and rich choice of hair health ingredients. It can repair and protect the hair, promote regrowth, stop shedding and breakage, and promote longer, thicker hair that shines with a healthy radiance.
Pros
- Har Vokse doesn’t use harmful chemicals.
- It’s suitable for every hair type.
- There’s a 60-day money-back guarantee.
Cons
- Har Vokse is an expensive supplement.
- It takes about 3 months to see visible results.
Key Ingredients
Vitamins B6 and E, Selenium, Copper, L-Arginine, L-Cysteine, Biotin, Rosemary Leaf Extract, Hydrolyzed Marine Collagen, Amla Extract
Key Facts
Manufacturer: Har Vokse | Health Concern: Hair Support, Hair Growth | Unit Count: 60 capsules | Features: Vegetarian Friendly, Non-GMO, and Gluten Free | Gender: Unisex
Sugarbear Hair Vegan Vitamin Gummies
Sugarbear Hair Vitamin Gummies are a delicious and nutritious supplement designed to support healthy hair growth from within. The gummies come in a 1-month supply of 75 gummies, with the recommended dosage being two gummies per day. Made with organic tapioca, the gummies have a tasty flavor that users enjoy, making the vitamins easy to consume consistently. The key ingredients in Sugarbear Gummies aim to reduce hair shedding and improve hair growth from the roots. Being powered by vegan vitamins, the gummies are suitable for people following plant-based diets.
Pros
- Made from effective ingredients.
- 100-Day money back guarantee.
Cons
- Added color and sugar.
- Contains coconut oil (Nut Allergen).
Key Ingredients
Vitamin A, Folic Acid, Biotin
Key Facts
Brand: SugarBearHair | Unit Count: 60 Gummies | Dosage: 2 Capsules Per Day
OLLY Ultra Strength Hair Softgels
Olly Hair Ultra Strength Hair Softgels are a dietary supplement designed to support healthy hair growth and strength. Containing a blend of biotin, keratin, and minerals, the softgels provide essential nutrients that nourish hair. Made with premium ingredients and containing a hint of strawberry flavor, the soft gels are easy to take daily. They are also sugar-free. Users have reported positive results such as increased hair growth and strength after short-term use of Olly Hair Softgels. The soft gel formulation makes it simple to supplement healthy hair as part of a daily routine.
Pros
- It supports healthy hair follicles.
- It is gluten free, sugar free and easy to swallow.
Cons
- Results may vary.
- While rare, some individuals may experience side effects.
Key Ingredients
B7 Biotin, Keratin, Zinc & Silica, Copper & Amla
Key Facts
Brand: OLLY | Unit Count: 30 Softgels | Dosage: 1 Softgel Per Day
Love Wellness Healthy Hair Probiotics
Love Wellness Healthy Hair Probiotics is a daily dietary supplement that supports healthy hair growth and promotes visibly thicker hair. The product comes in an easy-to-take capsule form and can be taken with or without food. It contains a shelf-stable probiotic blend that addresses root causes of hair loss like stress and hormones. Also included is AnaGain Nu, a clinically tested protein that stimulates the hair growth cycle and reduces hair fall. Vitamins B12 and B6 support the gut-scalp connection for thicker and shinier-looking hair.
Pros
- Vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free .
- No artificial fragrances, flavors, or dyes.
Cons
- Results may vary.
- Products has limited reviews.
Key Ingredients
AnaGain™ Nu (Pea protein), Vitamin B6 & B12, Biotin
Key Facts
Brand: Love Wellness | Unit Count: 30 Capsules | Dosage: 1 Capsule Daily
Moon Juice SuperHair Daily Hair Nutrition Supplement
SuperHair is a comprehensive hair supplement that promotes healthier, thicker, and stronger hair in four key ways. It acts as a multivitamin by providing 10 bioavailable vitamins and minerals to address nutritional deficiencies that can inhibit healthy hair growth. Adaptogens help balance stress hormones that may contribute to hair thinning and loss. Botanical ingredients support healthy hair follicles and promote thickness by inhibiting the hair-destructive hormone DHT. The supplement also contains micronutrients that are essential for hair health. By committing to a daily SuperHair regimen, users can see results like thicker, stronger, and healthier-looking hair within 4 weeks according to the manufacturer.
Pros
- 45-day money-back guarantee.
- 100% traceable and unadulterated ingredients.
Cons
- Costly compared to other hair supplements.
- Daily Dosage of 4 Capsules.
Key Ingredients
Multivitamins, Adaptogen, Follicle protectors, Micronutrients
Key Facts
Brand: Moon Juice | Unit Count: 120 Capsules | Dosage: 4 Capsules Daily
Vibrance Hair Growth Vitamins
Vibrance Hair Growth Vitamins include all-natural clinically-proven ingredients which may promote hair health and initiate growth and thickness. This blend promises to revitalize your hair from inside and out and provide you with potent results within a few weeks. For every bottle purchased, the manufacturer provides a bottle of vitamins to a child in need.
Pros
- The ingredients may have some scientific support.
- The product is reasonably-priced for the market.
- The products are lab-tested for bioavailability.
Cons
- It takes 6-8 weeks to see full results.
- There are additional ingredients they could add.
Key Ingredients:
Kelp, Bamboo Extract, Choline, Boron, Myo-Inositol, MSM, PABA, Bioperine
Key Facts:
Key specifications: Brand: Vibrance | Manufacturer: Eu Natural | Health Concern: Hair Health and Growth | Unit Count: 60 Capsules | Features: Vegetarian, Clinically-Researched
Nutrafol
Nutrafol is a brand of hair health supplements which could enhance growth and thickness and prevent thinning and shedding. The line may also provide other health benefits like menopause support, decreasing stress, balancing hormones, and easing digestion. They use organic, medical grade ingredients in all their supplements.
Pros
- This brand may target the 6 root causes of hair loss.
- The products could have clinical studies supporting them.
- The brand is suitable for both women and men.
Cons
- There’s no one-time purchase, you order through monthly delivery.
- The prices are expensive.
Key Ingredients:
Hydrolyzed Marine Collagen Types I and III, Ashwagandha, L-Lysine, Curcumin
Key Facts:
Key specifications: Brand: Nutrafol | Manufacturer: Nutraceutical Wellness Inc. | Health Concern: Hair Health and Growth | Unit Count: 120 Capsules | Features: 100% drug free, medical grade ingredients
Viviscal
Viviscal is a hair care brand with products for men and women. This line promises to promote longer, thicker hair, stop shedding and thinning, and improve overall hair health. The majority of the Viviscal reviews found this brand to be fairly effective, although some got limited results.
Pros
- The company has 25 years of experience researching hair.
- The products may promote thicker, fuller hair.
- Viviscal could help build healthier hair.
Cons
- You could develop a reaction on your scalp.
- Some of the prices are high.
Key Ingredients
Bitter Orange, Hydrolyzed Keratin, Zinc, Biotin, Lemon Peel Extract
Key Facts
Manufacturer: Viviscal | Health Concern: Hair Health and Growth | Unit Count: Varies | Features: Supported by scientific studies
Keranique KeraViatin
Keranique KeraViatin is a scalp and hair health and growth supplement. According to the manufacturer, this is a clinically-proven formula which promotes hair growth and thickness and slows shedding. The product is rich in vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients which support hair health.
Pros
- Has an FDA-approved ingredient clinically-proven to regrow hair.
- This is a cruelty-free product and brand.
- It may promote hair growth and thickness.
Cons
- Keranique KeraViatin is expensive.
- Part of the complex is proprietary so you don’t know the ingredient amounts.
Key Ingredients
Biotin, Selenium, Saw Palmetto, Curcumin, L-Taurine, Bamboo Shoot
Key Facts
Manufacturer: Keranique | Health Concern: Hair Health and Growth | Unit Count: Varies | Features: Clinically Proven
ScalpMED
ScalpMED is a brand of hair care products designed to promote hair health, stimulate growth and thickness, and prevent shedding. The brand includes hair care kits for men and women, and a daily hair care kit for the everyday. They do not sell their products individually.
Pros
- The products may increase the blood flow to the scalp.
- The manufacturer has a 120-day return policy.
- The brand could be safe and effective for all hair types.
Cons
- You can only buy sets, not individual products.
- There are a limited number of products in the line.
Key Ingredients
Minoxidil, Retinol, Biotin, Beta Sitosterol, Sabal Serrulata Fruit Extract
Key Facts
Manufacturer: ScalpMED | Health Concern: Hair Health and Growth | Unit Count: Varies | Features: Third-party testing, FDA regulated
Please note that the writer or reviewer of this article has not tried these products. All information presented is purely research-based and correct at the time of publication.
It’s important to note that not every hair growth vitamin and supplement will work for everyone, and your results may vary.
Mentioned above are the best hair growth vitamins that can help replenish your locks, reviewed by our Expert Team.
What Are Some of the Ingredients in Hair Growth Supplements and Vitamins?
Here are some of the primary active ingredients in top hair growth supplements and vitamin products:
Biotin
This is a B vitamin, and it plays a particular role in hair growth. It can stimulate the production of keratin, which is the key protein making up the hair. This helps strengthen and grow the hair and nails and promote their health (2). A review in Skin Appendage Disorders explored the use of biotin for hair loss.
Saw Palmetto
This is an extract from the Serenoa Repens tree, and it plays a role in blocking the conversion of testosterone to the hormone DHT. As this hormone is responsible for hair loss, it may prevent shedding and promote growth and thickening. It also has anti-inflammatory agents which can reduce redness and swelling on the scalp (3). An article in the Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery discussed the role of saw palmetto in managing hair loss.
Iron
Iron deficiency is common in cases of hair loss, especially in women. Therefore, an increase in iron levels can help prevent loss and shedding (4). It also improves blood flow, which elevates scalp circulation and brings oxygen and nutrients to the follicles. An article in the Indian Journal of Forensic Medicine & Toxicology explored the role of iron deficiency in chronic hair loss (5).
Horsetail Grass
This plant is rich in flavonoids which are potent antioxidants that can repair damage to the hair and protect it from environmental stressors. In addition, it contains silica, which can promote hair growth as well as keep the hair shiny and healthy-looking.
A study on rats in the Journal of Pharmacy & Pharmacognosy Research found that horsetail grass had hair regenerative properties (6).
Niacin
This is a vitamin in the B family, and it promotes hair growth and thickness by improving blood flow to the follicles. It can also deliver key nutrients and oxygen. A study in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology concluded that after 6 months of use, niacin led to a significant increase in hair fullness (7).
Vitamins for hair growth “can help provide the hair follicles with the necessary building blocks for healthy activity,” says Joshua Zeichner, MD, director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. “This means that hair follicles can function to the best of their ability.”
How Do Hair Growth Supplements and Vitamins Work?
Generally speaking, these formulas contain a wealth of vitamins and nutrients which support follicle health and growth, as well as balance the oils surrounding the follicle. A review in Dermatology and Therapy discussed the role of vitamins and minerals in hair loss (8). Many are rich in antioxidants, which destroy harmful free radicals in the hair and body and lower oxidative stress.
This assists in repairing damage to the hair and follicles, and it boosts its immunity. In addition, it protects it from potential harm from UV rays and various pollutants. Many of these supplements also have anti-inflammatory agents, which can decrease swelling and redness on the scalp.
Hair supplements often have ingredients which block the conversion of a hormone called DHT into testosterone. DHT is the specific chemical that leads to hair loss, so repressing it can have a significant impact.
They often contain proteins like collagen for hair growth, which also supports hair health and strength. There are ingredients which promote keratin production and help build its infrastructure. An article in the Journal of the Investigative Dermatology Symposium Proceedings discussed the role of keratin and other proteins in the human hair (9).
Benefits of Taking Hair Growth Supplements and Vitamins
While eating a healthy, balanced diet provides many of the nutrients your hair needs to stay strong and grow, supplements can specifically target hair growth by delivering concentrated doses of vitamins and minerals directly linked to healthier hair.
Supplements allow you to give your hair the extra nutrition it may be lacking from your regular diet alone. They contain blends of ingredients known to promote hair growth when your body may not be getting enough through food.
Supplements provide essential hair nutrients like vitamins A, B, C, D, and E, biotin, iron, zinc, and silica. Vitamin A supports sebum production for a moisturized scalp. B vitamins aid protein synthesis for stronger strands. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that protects hair from damage.
Vitamin D regulates hair follicle cell growth and biotin stimulates keratin production for length retention. Silica strengthens hair shafts to prevent breakage while zinc and iron deliver oxygenated blood to follicles for optimum growth.
A Registered Dietitian & an adjunct Nutrition Professor, Trista Best says, “Zinc plays an essential role in the growth and repair of hair tissue along with keeping the oil glands around the follicles operating efficiently. Biotin is a necessary nutrient to produce keratin, a fibrous protein needed for structural support in the body.”
These targeted nutrients can help fill in nutritional gaps and give your hair the extra nourishment it needs to grow longer and healthier.
What to Consider When Buying Hair Growth Supplements and Vitamins
Selecting hair growth products is something you should do carefully, putting some research into it to make sure you choose the best supplements for you. We’ve prepared a simple guide to help you look for the right features when you evaluate a product.
- Ingredients – Examine the ingredients included for some of the ones we have pointed out as being key hair loss organics. Naturally, there are many others that also support hair health, so you should research each ingredient carefully and look at the studies supporting its efficacy.
- Safety – You want to choose a product that has completely organic ingredients, without any chemicals are artificial additives that could be harmful. These are usually listed under ‘inactive ingredients.’ In addition, check the safety practices of the company. Ideally, you want a brand that manufactures in an FDA-approved facility and follows GMP standards.
- Manufacturer – It’s always best to buy from a known and reputable manufacturer, as the product is more likely to be high-quality. If you can’t find any information on a manufacturer, it’s best to stay away from the product.
- Price – Hair growth supplements and vitamins have quite a wide price range, starting from around $20 or less up to about $80. Check to see whether the ingredients and purported benefits justify the price. Some of the less expensive brands may also be effective.
- Guarantee – Before you make a purchase, check that the company is offering a fair and reasonable return policy or satisfaction guarantee. In order to try out the product to see if it works for you, you’ll need at least 60 days.
- Reviews – Always read through the reviews before you buy any product, to see what customers had to say. Look for the strengths and weaknesses of the brand so you know what to expect.
Tips For Enhancing Hair Health and Growth Naturally
Hair loss supplements and the best vitamins are ideal for supporting hair growth, thickening, and decreasing shedding and thinning. However, in addition, there are some lifestyle modifications you can make which could also have a strong impact on your hair health and growth. Consider incorporating some of these suggestions into your lifestyle.
Get a Scalp Massage – This is one of the best ways to stimulate your hair follicles, as well as improve circulation in the scalp. It can enrich overall scalp and hair health, and it may help to promote hair growth. The best thing about it is, if you have nobody else to give you one, you can massage your scalp yourself! Do this on a daily basis and you could see improvement.
Avoid Damaging Tools or Chemicals – If you use heat tools like curling irons and blow dryers, consider retiring them. Although they may help you style your hair, they can do a lot of damage and can cause breakage. The same is true of harsh chemicals, so check your products carefully to make sure they include only natural ingredients.
Quit Smoking – If you’re a smoker, it may be time to quit – or at least cut down – for the sake of your hair. The chemicals in cigarettes can slow circulation to the follicles and scalp, preventing the flow of oxygen and nutrients. This can damage your hair health, and it could also slow its growth.
Improve Your Diet – In addition to taking a supplement, you should be getting a lot of vitamins and minerals. Some of the best hair vitamins include D, A, C, E, and B vitamins. Minerals like zinc and iron are also good for hair growth, as well as protein.
In addition, include plenty of healthy fats like omega 3s in your diet, as they promote hair growth and health. This includes fish like tuna and salmon, flaxseed, plant oils like soy, and walnuts.
Holistic nutritionist Meryl Pritchard explains, “Healthy fats are essential to hair health since our bodies can’t produce omega-3 fatty acids on their own. Therefore, it’s important to get these fats through our diet (1).”
You should also eat plenty of antioxidant-rich foods, to promote repair of damage to the follicles or scalp and protection from future harm. Examples are berries, dark chocolate, artichoke, kale, cabbage, and beans.
Work on Lowering Your Stress Levels
Stress can have a negative impact on every area of your body, and your hair is no exception. Having too much on your plate can speed up hair loss, so you definitely want to find a way to get it under control.
There are many ways you can do this, it’s just a question of choosing the right one, or more, for you. Consider starting an exercise program, taking a yoga class, getting regular massages, talking out your issues with a friend or counselor, working less hours, and many other possible remedies for high stress.
Get Your Hair Cut Regularly
It sounds counterproductive when you’re trying to grow your hair, but it actually makes perfect sense. You have to get rid of the split ends and unhealthy hair on the bottom so that your healthy hair can grow in faster. How often will vary from person to person but try to go for a trim every 2-6 months.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Below, we answer some of the most common questions about vitamins and supplements for hair growth:
Q: What Are the Best Vitamins For Hair Growth?
A: Is there one best vitamin for hair loss? In fact, there are several vitamins that can have a potent impact on hair growth and overall health.
Most of these also have powerful antioxidant properties and can repair hair and follicle damage
and protect from UV rays and pollutants. They also have anti-inflammatory agents which may reduce redness and swell on the scalp.
Vitamin A – This key nutrient promotes cell growth, and it also produces sebum which keeps the scalp healthy and hydrated. A lack of Vitamin A may cause hair loss.
Vitamin D – This vitamin may create new hair follicles, leading to increased hair growth and thickness. Vitamin D may slow or prevent hair loss and shedding.
Vitamin C – Besides being a potent antioxidant, this vitamin can promote collagen production. Collagen is a protein that strengthens the hair and promotes growth.
Vitamin E – This is an antioxidant which can repair scalp and follicle damage and elevate the overall health and immunity of the hair.
B Vitamins – These vitamins produce red blood cells, which in turn transfer oxygen and nutrients to the cells. This promotes hair growth and health.
Q: Are Hair Growth Supplements and Vitamins Expensive?
A: The prices for these products vary quite a bit. You can purchase hair growth pills and vitamins for about $20, and you can also get them for close to $100.
Don’t make the mistake of thinking more expensive is better, as this is not always the case. Evaluate each brand carefully as there are some good products at a modest price.
Q: Is Zinc Good For Your Hair?
A: Zinc is an important mineral for the hair which may help with growth by repairing damage to the follicles and tissue. In addition, it can assist in the absorption of other nutrients. Zinc can participate in regulating hormones, which may also prevent hair loss.
A study in the Annals of Dermatology found a connection between low serum zinc levels and hair loss and suggested it as a potential treatment (10).
Q: Does biotin help hair growth?
A: There’s no definitive answer on whether biotin really helps grow hair. According to dermatologist Vivian Bucay, MD, clinical assistant professor at the University of Texas Health Science Center, if you’re taking a stand-alone biotin supplement, you’d need to take at least 5 milligrams daily for it to have the chance of affecting hair growth—but even then, there’s no guarantee it’ll do anything.
Q: Do Hair Growth Supplements and Vitamins Have Side Effects?
A: Whether there are side effects depends on the brand and the ingredients. Look at the list carefully and do your research. The best supplements for hair growth are fairly safe and wouldn’t likely lead to any serious symptoms.
Q: Where Can I Buy Hair Growth Supplements and Vitamins?
A: Generally speaking, you can purchase hair supplements and vitamins from numerous online retailers and from many offline shops like pharmacies and department stores. If you’re looking for one brand, you’ll have to research which retailers sell it specifically.
Q: Are Hair Growth Supplements and Vitamins FDA Approved?
A: Hair growth products are not medicinal, they are organic supplements which do not require FDA approval. However, check that the company does its production in an FDA-registered facility for safe manufacturing.
Q: Why Should You Buy Hair Growth Supplements and Vitamins?
A:
- These supplements nourish and support healthy hair.
- Hair vitamins and supplements often have immune strengthening benefits.
- These hair growth products can decreases shedding and breakage.
- Hair supplements and vitamins can thicken the hair and give it more volume.
- The best hair growth products give your confidence a big boost.
Q: What Are the Best Hair Growth Vitamins for Women?
A: Hair growth for women is not all that different compared to men, and the best vitamins for women are the same as we discussed earlier in this article. Make sure any product you buy has B vitamins, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Vitamin E, as well as the minerals Biotin, Zinc, Iron. For successful hair regrowth for women and men, you should also look for a supplement that contains protein.
If you have already experienced hair loss, Amy Lee, MD, doctor of internal medicine and head of nutrition for Nucific, recommends B12 vitamins because they help “produce new hair cells and promote growth.”
Q: Are Hair Growth Supplements and Vitamins Safe?
A: There’s no general answer to this problem, as it really depends on the product itself and what the ingredients are. Look for a brand that is 100% organic, with no harmful chemical or artificial additives. In addition, make sure the company manufactures in an FDA-approved facility under ideally GMP safety standards.
Q: How long does it take to see results from hair vitamins?
A: “Hair regrowth is absolutely not an overnight process,” says Gohara. You’ll usually start to see results within 6 to 12 weeks, but it typically takes up to 24 weeks (six months) to see full results, according to Kinsley.
Hair vitamins can live up to their claims to give you long, lush locks, but you shouldn’t expect overnight results. “As we all know, it takes time to grow hair,” says Lilly-Rose Paraskevas, MD, director of Rose Dermatology in New York City.
Q: What Vitamin Deficiency Causes Hair Loss?
A: A lack of certain vitamins can disrupt hair growth and potentially lead to hair shedding and loss. Two key vitamins involved are biotin and iron. A biotin deficiency prevents keratin, a key protein in hair, from forming properly. This causes hair to become thin and brittle, resulting in breakage. Low iron levels result in insufficient oxygen delivery to follicles through the blood. Hair enters a resting telogen phase prematurely and sheds more quickly.
Q: Is Vitamin D Good For Hair Growth?
A: Vitamin D is one of the best vitamins for hair growth. It may assist in building new hair follicles, which can promote new growth. In addition, there’s evidence that a deficiency in Vitamin D can lead to greater shedding (11).
According to Sapna Palep, M.D., founder of Spring Street Dermatology in New York City, Vitamin D is “the number one vitamin that’s not respected enough as a serious cause of hair not growing back (1).”
Do Hair Growth Supplements and Vitamins Really Work?
Hair growth supplements and vitamins often do work, but of course, it depends on the brand and the ingredients included. Products that work are rich in vitamins and other nutrients which support hair health and include substances that have research supporting their benefits. In the next section are some of the key ingredients you should look for in a hair growth brand.
Hair vitamins can make hair healthier and stronger in addition to longer. “There will be an increase in hair production, yes, but more importantly, there will be an increase in hair quality,” says Julie Russak, MD, dermatologist and founder of Russak Dermatology Clinic in New York City. “You can have a lot of hair, but if it’s thin and brittle, what good does that do?”
The Final Word
For many people, hair loss can be upsetting and even have a negative impact on self-esteem. Of course, there are prescription medications, but some people want an organic solution and the market is full of some of the best supplements for hair growth. Taking a natural product or vitamin for hair loss has helped many people to regain growth and fullness and get back their confidence.
Understanding the causes of hair thinning is essential when considering a treatment plan. Hair thinning can be triggered by various factors, including hormonal changes, stress, nutrient deficiencies, and even genetics. These underlying causes can affect the hair growth cycle, leading to noticeable hair loss. By targeting these causes with the right supplements or vitamins, many individuals have successfully restored their hair’s thickness and health.
As we stressed in this article, you have to do your research before buying a new product because not every hair growth brand is alike. There are some key ingredients to look for in a supplement such as a biotin, stinging nettle, Vitamin, E, Horsetail, and saw palmetto, as well as important vitamins and minerals.
You should also check the reputation of the manufacturer, the reviews, guarantees, and compare with other similar brands. In terms of safety, ensure there are no potentially harmful additives in the formula.
You want 100% pure organic ingredients which will enrich your hair health. A formula rich in nutrients like many of these supplements will also boost general health, and it can strengthen the immune system.
Now that you’re armed with information, you can go out and find the best hair vitamins or supplements for hair growth that the market has to offer. There’s a whole world of options out there and your hair growth journey is about to begin.
This article was originally published at an earlier date and has been updated.
Up NEXT – Best Supplements for Hair, Skin, and Nails, According to Experts