- Saw palmetto: This natural blocker of dihydrotestosterone plays an important role in hair loss. You should discuss the pros and cons with your provider, but it is considered an effective ingredient.
- Ashwagandha: It is an antioxidant known to help fight stress and has been shown to support hair growth and reduce hair breakage.
- Tocotrienols: This can increase hair density.
- curcumin: Known to reduce dihydrotestosterone, which is associated with hair loss.
- collagen: Although the verdict is still out on its effectiveness, anecdotal evidence and research suggests that collagen supplements may promote hair growth and strength and have positive effects on skin and nails. There is.
- Biotin: Once hailed as the best hair growth vitamin, it has fallen into disrepute somewhat due to a lack of data. Generally, it won’t harm you, but at high levels it can cause acne and affect certain laboratory values.
Who should take these supplements? And what is the best way to take them?
Vitti says you should take supplements if you feel your micronutrient levels are depleted due to daily caffeine intake, medication use, alcohol consumption, menstrual cycles or periods of high stress, diet, or exercise habits. Supplementing with micronutrients has been shown to be very beneficial.
However, most people can take most of these supplements. Ideally, there should be different formulations for different genders, ages, and other factors. If you’re trying to conceive or are pregnant, Dr. Gordon warns that certain ingredients should be avoided.
Which vitamin deficiencies can cause hair loss?
According to Dr. Gordon, vitamin D and vitamin B deficiencies are among the most commonly observed in hair loss cases. Although these may not necessarily be the direct cause, they are essential components of hair growth. “Other important tests to check include blood tests to make sure you’re not anemic, and thyroid function,” she added.
Are there any side effects I should be aware of?
“There are always potential side effects,” Dr. Gordon says, stressing the importance of sourcing plants from reliable sources, as research is limited. Many plants target dihydrotestosterone and can cause the side effect of low testosterone, but this is generally rare. Too much biotin can cause acne and should be stopped before certain blood tests to avoid interference with the laboratory. Iron supplements can cause constipation, and collagen can cause diarrhea and gastrointestinal problems in some people.
meet an expert
- Dr. Hardik Doshi is a dual board-certified plastic surgeon and lead hair restoration surgeon at Ample.
- Dr. Jennifer Gordon is a board-certified dermatologist at Westlake Dermatology.
- Alisa Vitti (HHC, AADP) is a functional nutrition and female hormone expert and founder of modern hormone healthcare company FLO Living.
