These are protein, collagen, omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, biotin, iron, and selenium.
That means some supplement products may not contain what the label says.
Hair loss sparked by a nutrient deficiency may be reversed by supplementing with that vitamin or mineral.
Female brushing her curly hair with comb in bathroom mirror.Taras Grebinets / Getty Images
Here’s a look at the evidence behind some popular supplements used for hair loss.
No supplement is intended to treat, cure, or prevent disease.
Collagen
Collagenis a popular supplement for hair, skin, and nails.
But there’s not much evidence it lives up to the hype.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Loss of eyebrows and hair lightening have been associated with low levels ofomega-3 fatty acids.
It’s been studied at 50 milligrams (mg) daily for women with hair loss.
In this trial, about half of the women who took zinc reported improvement in hair loss.
Biotin
Many people usebiotin(vitamin B7) to prevent or treat hair loss.
who used 5 mg of biotin a day.
Biotin deficiencies are very rare in people who eat a balanced diet.
Along with hair loss, other symptoms of low biotin levels are rashes andbrittle nails.
Iron
Ironis essential in cells that rapidly divide, like hair follicles.
Low levels of iron are associated with hair loss.
Selenium
Interestingly, having either too littleseleniumor too much of it may cause hair loss.
However, the effectiveness is unclear since other vitamins were also taken during the trial.
Selenium also has been researched at a dose of 5 mcg/kg daily in infants with alopecia.
Hair loss is a common side effect of selenium toxicity (having too much in your body).
What Conditions Cause Hair Loss?
The following can cause hair loss:
What Medications Cause Hair Loss?
Some medications can contribute to hair loss as well.
These include the following:
Appropriate treatment of hair loss may differ depending on what’s causing it.
What Treatments Are Available for Hair Loss?
Many of the nutrients involved in the hair cycle are found in a healthy diet.
Some people may be deficient in one, like iron, zinc, or biotin.
The Mediterranean diet may benefit hair growth.
More clinical trials are needed to confirm this.
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