<p>If you’ve already tried using <a href=”https://www.prevention.com/beauty/hair/a45860977/hair-oiling-benefits/” target=”_blank”>hair growth oils</a> and <a href=”https://www.prevention.com/beauty/hair/g39865543/best-hair-serum/” target=”_blank”>serums</a> to help <a href=”https://www.prevention.com/beauty/hair/a38164380/how-to-make-hair-thicker/” target=”_blank”>make hair thicker</a> and longer with no success, you may want to consider vitamins for hair growth. These supplements are formulated specifically for those experiencing <a href=”https://www.prevention.com/beauty/hair/a45919873/how-much-hair-loss-is-normal/” target=”_blank”>hair loss</a>, breakage, or <a href=”https://www.prevention.com/beauty/a20450254/9-causes-of-hair-loss-and-thinning-hair/” target=”_blank”>thinning hair</a> to help you achieve stronger strands.</p><p>“Hair growth supplements are helpful for anyone who is experiencing <a href=”https://www.prevention.com/beauty/a20450254/9-causes-of-hair-loss-and-thinning-hair/” target=”_blank”>hair loss</a>, <a href=”https://www.prevention.com/beauty/hair/10-best-products-for-thinning-hair/” target=”_blank”>hair thinning</a>, or for those who just want thicker or longer hair,” says <a href=”http://www.drdendyengelman.com/” target=”_blank”>Dendy Engelman, M.D.</a>, board-certified dermatologic surgeon.</p><p class=”body-tip”>Meet the Experts: <a href=”http://www.drdendyengelman.com/” target=”_blank”>Dendy Engelman, M.D.</a>, board-certified dermatologic surgeon in New York City; <a href=”https://www.advanceddermatologypc.com/doctors/suzanne-friedler/%20″ target=”_blank”>Suzanne Friedler, M.D.,</a> board-certified dermatologist with Advanced Dermatology PC and clinical instructor of dermatology at Mt. Sinai Medical Center in NYC; <a href=”https://www.drjaliman.com/” target=”_blank”>Debra Jaliman, M.D.</a>, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City and the author of<em> <a href=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/1250000955?” target=”_blank” rel=”nofollow”>Skin Rules</a></em>; and others.<br></p><p>But there may be more serious reasons for <a href=”https://www.prevention.com/beauty/hair/a45919873/how-much-hair-loss-is-normal/” target=”_blank”>hair loss</a> or hair thinning at play. So, it’s important to speak with a dermatologist to assess any changes in your hair, <a href=”http://www.zeichnerdermatology.com/” target=”_blank”>Joshua Zeichner, M.D.</a>, director of cosmetic and clinical research at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, explains. </p><p>“We know that certain conditions like nutritional or vitamin deficiencies are associated with thinning hair—for example, in anemia and <a href=”https://www.prevention.com/health/a35183225/vitamin-d-benefits/” target=”_blank”>vitamin D</a> deficiency, patients may notice hair loss,” he says. Always check with your medical provider if you’re concerned about any underlying conditions that could be the cause behind your lackluster strands.<br></p><p>Now that you have the basics down, here are the most effective vitamins and supplements that will help you grow healthier, shinier hair—dermatologist-approved!<br></p><blockquote class=”body-blockquote”><em>Dietary supplements are products intended to supplement the diet. They are not medicines and are not intended to treat, diagnose, mitigate, prevent, or cure diseases. Be cautious about taking dietary supplements if you are pregnant or nursing. Also, be careful about giving supplements to a child, unless recommended by their healthcare provider.</em></blockquote>”/>
1
BEST Vitamins for Hair Growth OVERALL
Hair Growth Nutraceutical
Pros
- Includes ashwagandha to help reduce stress
- Contains a variety of hair-growth vitamins in one pill
- No artificial additives
Cons
- Pricey
Dr. Engelman favors this supplement to target hair thinning. “This uses highly concentrated botanicals to address every stage of the growth cycle,” she says, such as vitamin E, ashwagandha (a type of herb), anti-inflammatory biocurcumin, and others. “It has excellent clinical studies to support its efficacy. I recommend it daily to my patients.”
One peer-reviewed study (which was funded by Nutrafol) published in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, found that women who said their hair was thinning reported improved growth and thickness after taking it for six months. The researchers also found an increase in hair density after three months.
| Active Ingredients | Biotin, zinc, and vitamins A, D, and C |
|---|---|
| Form | Capsule |
| Serving Size | 4 capsules |
| Servings Per Container | 30 |
| Third-Party Tested | Yes |
2
BEST VALUE Vitamins for Hair Growth
Nature’s Bounty Biotin
Now 53% Off
Pros
- Helps the structure of Keratin
- Biotin promotes healthy hair, skin, and nails
- Serving size is just 1 softgel
Cons
- May be too much biotin for some
This B vitamin is an ingredient in many different hair supplements—for good reason. “Biotin is a water-soluble vitamin that supports the growth of hair, skin, and nails by helping to break down fats and carbohydrates,” says Dr. Engelman. Run low and you may notice your hair is weak, or you may start to lose it.
You can expect the vitamin to increase the speed of hair growth, but it won’t increase thickness, she says. However, it is far cheaper than other supplements, making it a good starting point. For one good biotin supplement, Debra Jaliman, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist in New York City and the author of Skin Rules, recommends Nature’s Bounty Biotin.
| Active Ingredients | Biotin |
|---|---|
| Form | Softgel |
| Serving Size | 1 softgel |
| Servings Per Container | 120 |
| Third-Party Tested | Yes |
3
Best Vitamins for Hair Growth With Rave Reviews
Vitafusion Multivitamin Plus Beauty
Pros
- Ingredients also benefit nails and skin
- Made with no artificial flavors or sweeteners
- Fruity flavor
Cons
- Some reviewers reported a chemical taste
Enriched with biotin, vitamins C and E, as well as other must-have nutrients like zinc and folate, these gummies not only claim to improve the look and growth of hair, but reviewers rave about the noticeable difference it makes in brittle nails, too. “This stuff enhances my curl pattern and puts a stop to breakage and split ends and knots,” one happy Amazon reviewer wrote. “I’ve noticed that my hair is thicker and a little longer, too.”
Plus, these “beauty” gummies also contain vitamin A (what retinol is derived from) to help contribute to healthy skin. A small 2023 study found that oral supplementation of vitamin A combined with topical retinol application showed greater skin improvement than topical application alone. However, more research is needed on vitamin A for hair growth to better understand its benefits.
| Active Ingredients | Biotin, zinc, folate, and vitamins C and E |
|---|---|
| Form | Gummy |
| Serving Size | 2 gummies |
| Servings Per Container | 45 |
| Third-Party Tested | Yes |
4
Best Vegan Gummy Vitamins for Hair Growth
Hum Hair Strong Gummies
Pros
- Vegan
- High biotin content
- Also beneficial for nails and skin
Cons
- Flavor isn’t for everyone
Biotin, zinc, B12, PABA, and folic acid are all packed into these adorable little chews. They’re vegan and free of synthetic colors and artificial sweeteners. The chews are clinically proven to result in improvements in hair growth. All you have to do is take two gummies a day and let the vitamins get to work.
“I have noticed my hair is stronger, and I lose way less each day during styling,” said one reviewer. “These little hair gummies not only taste amazing but actually WORK when it comes to helping my hair grow + strengthen my strands!” another wrote. “I’ve noticed a difference in my hair finally growing for first time in 10 years.”
| Key Ingredients | Biotin, zinc, B12, PABA, and folic acid |
|---|---|
| Form | Gummy |
| Serving Size | 2 gummies |
| Servings Per Container | 30 |
| Third-Party Tested | Yes |
5
Best-Selling Vitamins for Hair Growth
Hair Growth Supplements
Pros
- Contains vitamin C
- Good source of iron
- Includes biotin
Cons
- Some reviewers report gas pains
Containing a marine complex, as well as biotin, zinc, vitamin C, iron, and horsetail extract, Viviscal “uses vitamins to extend the anagen (growth) phase of the hair growth cycle,” says Dr. Engelman. In a 2015 study published in Dermatology Research and Practice found that after 90 days, adult women taking Viviscal had an increase in hair volume and lost significantly fewer hairs after washing compared to a placebo.
“This works! My hair is growing way faster and my hair is falling less than it ever did,” one reviewer wrote. “Since taking Viviscal hair growth supplements for the past six weeks my hairline has filled in and I have inch-long hair growing throughout my hair on the top and along the sides of my head,” another added.
| Active Ingredients | Biotin, zinc, vitamin C, iron, niacin, and an AminoMar marine complex |
|---|---|
| Form | Pill |
| Serving Size | 2 pills |
| Servings Per Container | 30 |
| Third-Party Tested | N/A |
6
Best Multivitamin for Hair Growth
Nature Made Multi For Her
Pros
- Inexpensive
- Boosts imune system
- Supports bone and muscle health
Cons
- Not specifically made to target hair growth
A good basic multivitamin can go a long way in encouraging hair growth, says Dr. Friedler. That’s because multis contain your mane needs: biotin, vitamins C and D, zinc, and iron. This one from Nature Made is well-priced, is USP-verified for safety, and is in a softgel form, making it easy to swallow.
“Lifesavers! It’s been about two months and my hair is definitely growing fuller and thicker, I feel less tired and fatigued (this I noticed within days), and overall my mood has been the best it’s been in months!” one reviewer wrote.
| Active Ingredients | Vitamins C and D, Biotin, zinc, and iron |
|---|---|
| Form | Softgel |
| Serving Size | 1 softgel |
| Servings Per Container | 60 |
| Third-Party Tested | Yes |
7
Best B complex Vitamins for Hair Growth
Keranique KeraViatin Hair & Scalp Health Supplements
Now 19% Off
Pros
- Vitamins B1, B6, and B12 nourish the scalp
- Amino acids promote hair growth
- Softgels are easy to swallow
Cons
- Pricey
This supplement packs a range of B vitamins to help the body break down nutrients to nourish hair growth, plus zinc, antioxidant curcuminoids, and amino acids like L-cysteine. “Cystine (which is formed by two cysteine molecules) is an amino acid, which is a protein building block that helps to maintain the structure of proteins in the body—and is one of the most crucial amino acids for hair growth,” says Dr. Jaliman.
“After covid, I was having problems with the health of my hair, and losing it too. This product has restored my hair’s thickness and gotten me back on track to healthy hair!” one reviewer wrote. “My hair was thinning and falling out after having three children so I thought I would try Keranique and my hair is thicker and longer and not falling out anymore!” another wrote.
| Active Ingredients | Biotin, cystine, riboflavin, curcumin, saw palmetto extract, and vitamins B1, B6, and B12 |
|---|---|
| Form | Softgel |
| Serving Size | 2 softgels |
| Servings Per Container | 30 |
| Third-Party Tested | Yes |
8
Best prenatal Vitamins for Hair Growth
One A Day Prenatal 1 Multivitamin
Now 45% Off
Pros
- Iron promotes healthy hair
- Supports bone health
- No artificial sweeteners or corn syrup
Cons
- Some reviewers report a fishy smell
Whether you’re pregnant or not (and even if you don’t intend to be!), your hair can benefit from a prenatal, says Suzanne Friedler, M.D., board-certified dermatologist with Advanced Dermatology PC and clinical instructor of dermatology at Mt. Sinai Medical Center in NYC. “A prenatal vitamin has the nutrients you need to support hair growth in high enough concentrations,” she says. Prenatals are specifically often packed with iron. “Many of my patients whose hair is thinning are missing iron,” she says. The beauty of this One A Day is that it contains biotin as well as iron—28 mg (156% of your daily need).
“I like these a lot. They make my skin and hair so healthy (I’m not pregnant.. I’m taking them in preparation) and I feel more energized when I take them regularly,” one reviewer wrote.
| Active Ingredients | Iron, folic acid, DHA, and vitamin D |
|---|---|
| Form | Softgel |
| Serving Size | 1 softgel |
| Servings Per Container | 60 |
| Third-Party Tested | Yes |
9
Best gluten-free Vitamins for Hair Growth
Ouai Thick & Full Supplements
Pros
- Pea sprout extract helps shedding
- Vegan
- Gluten free
Cons
- Brand says it takes 60 days to see results on average, which is two bottles
This supplement contains pea sprout extract to promote thicker hair and prevent shedding. Biotin helps speed growth, while the multivitamin complex protects your scalp, resulting in healthier and faster hair growth, per the brand. To top it off, you can refill you jar for a more sustainable packaging option.
One shopper who’s been using the product for about six months noted, “[I] have had some new hair growth up around my temple area and my hair feels and looks thicker.” Another shopper added: “I was experiencing pretty severe postpartum hair loss and I saw amazing results after only 30 days of taking these supplements. The decreased shedding and regrowth were both pretty significant!”
| Active Ingredients | Pea sprout extract, biotin, multivitamin complex |
|---|---|
| Form | Capsule |
| Serving Size | 1 capsule |
| Servings Per Container | 30 |
| Third-Party Tested | N/A |
10
BEST VITAMINS FOR HAIR GROWTH WITH VITAMIN D
Nordic Naturals Vitamin D3 Gummies
Now 15% Off
Pros
- Vitamin D helps produce new hair follicles
- Non-GMO
- Easy-to-eat gummies
Cons
- Some reviewers don’t like the sugar coating on the gummies
Telogen effluvium (TE) is the medical term for when you shed more hair than normal. It often shows up a few months after a stressful event, like childbirth. That’s where vitamin D comes in. “The number one vitamin that’s not respected enough as a serious cause of hair not growing back in TE is a vitamin D deficiency,” says Sapna Palep, M.D., founder of Spring Street Dermatology in New York City.
Vitamin D is involved in the production of new hair follicles, so Dr. Palep recommends taking a hair growth vitamin (her pick is Nutrafol) and then supplementing with additional vitamin D. These berry-flavored gummies from Nordic Naturals provide 1,000 IU of vitamin D3 (an easily absorbable form of vitamin D) in each serving. Just make sure you’re not overdoing it on the vitamin, as it can sneak into multivitamins you may already be taking.
| Active Ingredients | Vitamin D3 |
|---|---|
| Form | Gummies |
| Serving Size | 1 gummy |
| Servings Per Container | 120 |
| Third-Party Tested | Yes |
11
Best Vitamins for Hair Growth Subscription
Ritual Essential for Women 18+
Now 34% Off
Pros
- Vitamin D and magnesium may promote bone health
- Microalgae and vitamin B12 may support brain health
- Subscription for automatic refills
Cons
- Only recommended for women
People like Ritual’s multi because it’s vegan, GMO-free, and leaves out dyes and fillers. What’s more, this one is packed with nine specially chosen nutrients designed to fill common shortfalls while not giving you more than you need.
Most importantly for hair, it contains vitamin D3 (2,000 IU) and iron (8 mg, which is 44% of your daily need), the two nutrients that Dr. Friedler flags as two of the more fairly common culprits of thinning. Conveniently, Ritual is a subscription vitamin service—so you never have to worry about running out (and you may be more likely to take them).
| Active Ingredients | Folate, iron, magnesium, microalgae and vitamins D3, B12, and E |
|---|---|
| Form | Capsule |
| Serving Size | 2 capsules |
| Servings Per Container | 30 |
| Third-Party Tested | Yes |
12
Best Vitamins for Hair Growth That Combats DHT
Moon Juice SuperHair Daily Hair Nutrition
This supplement combines the practicality of a multivitamin with vitamins A, B, C, D, E, and K, plus ashwagandha and ginseng, adaptogenic herbs that help buffer your body’s stress response. Since stress is implicated in hair thinning and loss, these may help you hold onto the strands you have. Happy users say that they notice they lose less hair in the shower and benefit from noticeable hair regrowth.
“This multivitamin makes my hair stronger and overall healthier,” one reviewer wrote. “I’ve noticed my hair has decreased in breakage significantly since taking this consistently. This gives me all the nutrients that my diet is lacking to grow my hair! No more thinning and coarse texture.”
| Active Ingredients | Ashwagandha, ginseng, horsetail extract, saw palmetto, pumpkin seeds, and vitamins A, B, C, D, E, and K |
|---|---|
| Form | Capsule |
| Serving Size | 4 capsules |
| Servings Per Container | 30 |
| Third-Party Tested | Yes |
How to choose vitamins for hair growth
If you’ve ever tried to shop for a hair growth supplement, you know there are tons of bottles to wade through. “That’s why it’s best to read labels and check for ingredients we really want,” says Dr. Jaliman. Dietary supplements aren’t regulated the same way as drugs are by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, so it’s important to scan the ingredients carefully. And, you should always talk to your doctor before taking one to ensure it won’t interact with any medications you’re taking. Below are some more tips to keep in mind when choosing the right vitamin for hair growth for you:
Find out if you have any nutritional deficiencies: Hair thinning and hair loss are typically caused by a deficiency of certain vitamins, iron, or biotin. Blood work can determine if you have any nutritional deficiencies, and your doctor can suggest dietary changes or recommend which vitamins you should be taking.
Get your hormone levels checked: Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a health condition that can cause female patterned hair loss. If you have other symptoms pointing to PCOS, such as an irregular menstrual cycle, acne, hirsutism, or weight gain, make a visit to the gynecologist or an endocrinologist. They can diagnose you with PCOS and prescribe medications or vitamins to balance your hormone levels.
What ingredients to look for in vitamins for hair growth
Daily multivitamins are beneficial for general health and wellness purposes, but look closely at the active ingredients for vitamins or minerals that support healthy hair growth. Ife J. Rodney, M.D., founding director of Eternal Dermatology Aesthetics and professor of dermatology at Howard University and George Washington University, recommends looking for a vitamin for hair growth that contains the following ingredients:
- Biotin (Vitamin B7): This is a water-soluble vitamin that helps with the production of keratin, which is a protein that makes up your hair, skin, and nails. “While it primarily helps with nail growth, there may be some overlap to hair growth,” Dr. Rodney says.
- Vitamin C: This vitamin helps with the production of collagen, a protein that can help strengthen skin at your hair roots, and, ultimately, keratin in the body. “Both are important for hair’s elasticity, strength, and luster,” says Dr. Rodney.
- Zinc: This “helps to boost overall immunity,” Dr. Rodney says, which may be beneficial for hair growth. Studies show correlations between low levels of zinc and those with telogen effluvium and androgenetic alopecia (two common forms of hair loss).
- Folic acid: Folic acid, or folate, is a type of B vitamin (a group of vitamins Dr. Engelman recommends as a whole for hair health) and a common ingredient found in hair growth vitamins. While more studies are needed, its importance for DNA synthesis and red blood cell formation suggests it may help promote hair growth.
- Omega fatty acids: Dr. Engelman suggests looking for vitamins and supplements containing omega-3 fatty acids, commonly found in fish oil supplements. One study found that after taking omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, participants showed increased hair density.
How do vitamins for hair growth work?
When you take an oral supplement, it is absorbed in the bloodstream where it nourishes all cells, including your hair follicles. Just know that vitamins for hair growth work in more of an indirect process. “In terms of vitamins, there are few, if any that specifically target hair growth,” says Dr. Rodney. However, she adds, some vitamins benefit “overall health, which can ultimately impact hair growth.”
“We know that certain conditions like nutritional or vitamin deficiencies are associated with thinning hair—for example, in anemia and vitamin D deficiency, patients may notice hair loss,” Dr. Zeichner says. “So we always want to make sure if vitamin D and iron levels are where they should be.” Basically, if your health or vitamin intake isn’t where it should be, your body will focus on that and potentially shuttle hair-healthy vitamins away from your strands.
Are vitamins for hair growth safe?
“For most people, trying a hair growth supplement won’t hurt and it can help, so you can start at your first sign of hair thinning,” says Blair Murphy-Rose, M.D., F.A.A.D., board-certified cosmetic, medical, and surgical dermatologist at Laser & Skin Surgery Center of New York, but advises seeing a dermatologist to help make a diagnosis of the root of the problem contributing to your hair thinning.
Choose supplements that have been specifically tested for safety and efficacy to avoid any problems, recommends Vivian Bucay, M.D., F.A.A.D., board-certified dermatologist at Bucay Center for Dermatology and Aesthetics. “There are countless supplements touted for hair growth, but only a very few of the available formulations that contain a combination of vitamins and minerals have undergone rigorous testing to prove that they work,” Dr. Bucay says.
According to Mount Sinai Hospital, there are risks for having too much iron, calcium, vitamin D, and vitamin A, so it’s best to consult your doctor first and only take supplements if you have lower levels or a deficiency of a certain vitamin.
If you decide not to go the supplement route, there are plenty of foods for hair growth that you can add to your diet to benefit your tresses. Also, see our favorite hair growth shampoos and oils that you can easily add to your hair care regimen.
Why is my hair thinning?
Genetics play a large role in the thickness of hair and hair thinning is common as you age, but sudden or extreme hair loss can point to signs of an underlying health condition, hormonal imbalance, autoimmune conditions, or a nutritional deficiency.
“Androgenetic alopecia (a.k.a hormonal thinning) and telogen effluvium are two of the most common causes I see in my practice,” says Dr. Murphy-Rose. “Others include nutritional deficiencies like iron deficiency or vitamin D deficiency, underlying medical conditions like a thyroid disorder, and then there are many inflammatory skin conditions that can lead to hair loss.”
Beyond genetics and internal health conditions, hair thinning can also be caused by lifestyle practices. Heat damage from curling irons and straighteners can cause hair shedding, says Dr. Bucay. She adds that hairstyling practices such as chemical straightening or tight braiding can also contribute to hair thinning.
When to see a doctor for hair loss
If you try the supplement route, you’ll want to give it a little time to work. “If you are using at home supplements already and they are not helping after a month or so, it may be time to touch base with your dermatologist to make sure you are using the right products for your hair needs,” Dr. Zeichner says.
It’s best to see a doctor when the supplements aren’t helping, your hair loss began out of nowhere, or it feels like you’re shedding abnormal amounts of hair. “Sudden unexplained hair loss should prompt a visit to the dermatologist to rule out certain conditions such as alopecia areata (autoimmune) or even an autoimmune cause such as thyroid disease or systemic lupus,” Dr. Bucay says. “Once the cause of hair loss has been established, then a dermatologist can offer advice regarding prescription and nonprescription options for treatment.”
A doctor can also order a blood test to check for any underlying nutritional deficiencies or hormonal imbalances, which can help you decide a more direct treatment plan.
How we chose the best vitamins for hair growth
We consulted Vivian Bucay, M.D., F.A.A.D., board-certified dermatologist at Bucay Center for Dermatology and Aesthetics; Dendy Engelman, M.D., board-certified dermatologic surgeon in New York City; Suzanne Friedler, M.D., board-certified dermatologist with Advanced Dermatology PC and clinical instructor of dermatology at Mt. Sinai Medical Center in NYC; Debra Jaliman, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist in New York City and the author of Skin Rules; Blair Murphy-Rose, M.D., F.A.A.D., board-certified cosmetic, medical, and surgical dermatologist at Laser & Skin Surgery Center of New York; Sapna Palep, M.D., founder of Spring Street Dermatology in New York City; Ife J. Rodney, M.D., founding director of Eternal Dermatology Aesthetics and professor of dermatology at Howard University and George Washington University; and Joshua Zeichner, M.D., director of cosmetic and clinical research at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. Additionally, we conducted our own research and sifted through online reviews to pick the best options.
Why trust us
For more than 70 years, Prevention has been a leading provider of trustworthy health information, empowering readers with practical strategies to improve their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Our editors interview medical experts to help guide our health-focused product selections. Additionally, Prevention also examines hundreds of reviews—and often conducts personal testing done by our staff—to help you make informed decisions.
Jessica Migala is a health writer specializing in general wellness, fitness, nutrition, and skincare, with work published in Women’s Health, Glamour, Health, Men’s Health, and more. She is based in the Chicago suburbs and is a mom to two little boys and rambunctious rescue pup.
Madeleine, Prevention’s assistant editor, has a history with health writing from her experience as an editorial assistant at WebMD, and from her personal research at university. She graduated from the University of Michigan with a degree in biopsychology, cognition, and neuroscience—and she helps strategize for success across Prevention’s social media platforms.
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