Many people deal with hair loss, but certain vitamins could help prevent it and even encourage new hair growth
Doctors have highlighted a range of vitamin supplements that could help boost hair growth and combat hair loss – a condition affecting millions in the UK. As many as 15.4 million Brits are thought to be grappling with hair loss in the UK.
While shedding 50 to 100 hairs daily is normal, various factors can lead to more significant hair loss. These could include hormonal imbalances or shedding caused by stress.
The hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is known to shrink hair follicles, resulting in finer strand. Meanwhile cortisol, the stress hormone, can disrupt hair growth and cause thinning.
Dr Alexis Missick of UK Meds says there are multiple causes for hair loss. “Hair loss is a broad term that is used to refer to a person losing hair from different parts of their body, most commonly the scalp,” the expert said.
“Hair loss can be permanent or temporary and can be caused by a number of different conditions and factors. Typically, hair loss is caused by genetics, hormones, medical conditions and some medications
“Some people may experience an increase in hair loss after they have had surgery. There is not a great amount of research that can link anaesthesia and hair loss and It should be noted that stress can cause temporary hair loss.”
She continued: “When someone is having to go through a rigorous medical procedure which involves anaesthesia it is likely that any hair loss experienced is caused by stress, as opposed to the anaesthetic itself.”
She added that it’s common for women to experience hair loss during different hormonal cycles. “Postpartum hair loss is a common condition that affects women after they have given birth,” she said.
“After a woman has given birth, hormonal fluctuations can cause hair follicles to enter the resting phase, which can lead to an increase in hair loss. The duration of postpartum hair loss can vary from person to person. It can last for around six to 24 weeks, and rarely lasts any longer than 15 months.”
If you are experiencing severe hair loss, speak to your doctor. Persistent hair loss or thinning could signal a health problem or deficiency.
Taking the following supplements could help people experiencing hair loss. Studies have shown that these supplements may help improve the quality of your hair and help reduce shedding.
1. Biotin
Biotin, a vital B vitamin, plays a crucial role in extracting energy and nutrients from carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. If you lack biotin, it could result in hair loss, but fear not, as supplements can assist in promoting hair growth.
However, evidence has not shown that biotin supplements can boost hair growth in those without a deficiency. Dr Alexis Missick explained: “Biotin is a vitamin that is important for the growth and maintenance of hair and skin.
“Some studies suggest that using a biotin supplement can improve the thickness of hair and can help to reduce hair shedding.”
2. Zinc
Not having enough zinc in your system can mess up the balance of nutrients needed for healthy hair growth. This might cause problems like hair loss. A zinc deficiency could make your hair follicles weaker, leading to thinner hair and more shedding.
On Zinc, Dr Alexis Missick added: “Zinc is an essential mineral that is important for a variety of bodily functions including the immune system and wound healing. Zinc can also play a role in the synthesis of keratin, a protein that makes up hair, skin and nails.”
3. Vitamin C
Vitamin C acts as an antioxidant, stopping free radicals in their tracks and can help prevent damage being caused to the body by these reactions. Regarding Vitamin C, Dr Missick noted that while scientific evidence is limited on its effects on hair loss, it’s vital for overall health and supports healthy hair growth.
4. Omega-3
Speaking about Omega-3, the hair expert mentioned that these fatty acids are crucial for many body functions, including maintaining healthy hair and skin. There have been a few studies indicating that omega-3s could potentially enhance the health of your hair, especially if you’re experiencing hair loss.
However, it’s important to note that the evidence supporting this is currently limited. If you’re interested in increasing your intake of fish oil, you can achieve this by either making dietary changes or considering supplements.
5. Iron
On Iron, Dr Missick further explained: “Iron is an essential mineral that is necessary for the production of haemoglobin, which carries oxygen to the body’s tissues, including the hair follicles. Without enough iron, the hair follicles can become weak and the hair can become brittle, dry, and prone to breakage.”
6. Collagen
Discussing collagen, Dr Missick pointed out: “There is evidence to suggest that collagen peptides, also known as CP, can help to promote hair growth. Two separate studies by Hwang et al, in 2022, were conducted to see whether collagen taken from different sources would have an effect on hair growth.
“The conclusion of these tests found that collagen may be a viable treatment option to help promote healthy hair growth in humans.”
