How to Grow LONG Natural Hair | alexuscrown
Vitamin C is used across the globe as an immunity-boosting supplement to prevent illness. Also referred to as ascorbic acid, which is the form of vitamin C found naturally in food, this ingredient can be found in everything from makeup to toothpaste.1 In the beauty world, it is an essential part of skincare routines for its ability to help create a more radiant, even skin tone.
As a powerful antioxidant and natural collagen booster, vitamin C seems like it would be beneficial to the hair and scalp as well as the face. The skin of the scalp is often neglected, and it may seem natural to want to improve your scalp skin health with the same products that have proven beneficial for your face. So we turned to dermatologists Brendan Camp, MD, and Marisa Garshick, MD, for their expert opinions on vitamin c for hair.
MEET THE EXPERT
Brendan Camp, MD, FAAD, is a double board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology in New York City.
Marisa Garshick, MD, FAAD, is a board-certified dermatologist at MDCS: Medical Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery Centers, and a clinical assistant professor of dermatology at Cornell University.
Does vitamin C have as many benefits for the hair as it does for the skin? Keep reading to find out.
VITAMIN C FOR HAIR
TYPE OF INGREDIENT: Antioxidant
MAIN BENEFITS: Neutralizes free radical damage, aids in collagen production, and boosts shine
WHO SHOULD USE IT: In general all hair types can benefit from vitamin C, but it may be especially helpful for those with dull hair and hair that is susceptible to breakage.
HOW OFTEN CAN YOU USE IT: As a topical treatment, it depends on the specific product formulation; many can be used two to three times per week. As an oral supplement, vitamin C can be taken daily, but dosage should be discussed with your doctor before starting a new supplement.
WORKS WELL WITH: Vitamin C can be paired with other ingredients such as vitamin E, niacinamide, hydrating ingredients, or caffeine.
DON’T USE WITH: Products that alter the pH of skin or hair, such as AHA, BHAs, or alkaline ingredients
Benefits of Vitamin C for Hair
Vitamin C is an essential supplement for the normal functioning of the human body.2 In skincare, vitamin C is popular for its ability to brighten skin and promote collagen production.3 As one of the most powerful antioxidants in the skin, vitamin C has been shown to protect against photoaging and to have an anti-aging effect by increasing collagen synthesis.4 Typically, vitamin C is applied topically to the skin in the form of serums or moisturizers.
When applied to the scalp, it can have similar benefits. "Vitamin C works as an antioxidant to help neutralize free radical damage which can help to maintain scalp health," Garshick explains. Camp agrees, adding that vitamin C neutralizes free oxygen radicals that develop during the day as a result of normal metabolism and UV exposure. "Free oxygen radicals are damaging to cellular structures like DNA, lipids, and proteins," Camp explains. Vitamin C can also help boost collagen production in the scalp and hair, which Garshick says can in turn help to strengthen and promote hair health.
Neutralizes free radical damage: Vitamin C works as an antioxidant to help neutralize free radical damage, which, according to Garshick, can help in maintaining scalp health. These antioxidant properties of vitamin C are beneficial topically and when orally ingested.
Strengthens the hair: Vitamin C is a known collagen booster and collagen is a key component of strong hair.4 "Vitamin C can help to boost collagen production which can also help to strengthen and promote hair health," says Garshick.
Boosts shine: Vitamin C can also work to brighten and improve the overall shine of the hair, shares Garshick. Vitamin C also contributes to a healthy scalp environment, which can influence the appearance of the hair overall.
May prevent hair loss: Vitamin C may interact with DHT, a hormone that contributes to hair loss, says Camp. "DHT causes miniaturization and shrinkage of the hair follicle. Vitamin C reduces the formation of DHT." Research has shown vitamin C's ability to repress DHT, meaning it may help to prevent hair loss. 5
May help promote new hair growth: Garshick shares that "by boosting collagen, vitamin C may help to promote hair regrowth." Camp adds that in reducing the formation of DHT, vitamin C allows for improved hair growth.
Hair Type Considerations
Our experts agree that vitamin C is safe for all hair types, though it may have more benefits for some types than others. Those with color-treated or damaged hair may garner extra benefits from the collagen-boosting powers of vitamin C. "It can be used by all hair types, but is especially helpful for those with dull hair and hair that is susceptible to breakage," says Garshick. Camp adds that vitamin C can be used on most hair types and textures, but that people with dry hair may want to exercise more caution, as some hair products remove more oils from the hair shaft and contribute to dryness.
While it can be used by all hair types, it is always good to speak with a medical professional to determine the underlying cause of your hair concerns says Garshick. And while someone may not have an allergy to vitamin C itself, the other ingredients in a vitamin C product may have the potential to cause irritation. "Someone with an allergy to an ingredient in the hair product should avoid it, and those with more sensitive skin may want to apply the product to a test spot on the inside of the elbow for a few days before using it on their scalp," advises Camp.
How to Use Vitamin C for Hair
There are many benefits to taking vitamin C orally and using it topically. Vitamin C is an essential supplement for overall health, but unlike most animals, humans are unable to synthesize vitamin C due to a missing enzyme.6 This means that we must depend on dietary sources of vitamin C, like citrus fruits or vitamin supplements, to meet our physiological need for vitamin C.
In using vitamin C for hair, topical application is most effective for observing the benefits to the scalp and hair follicles. Both experts recommend using pre-formulated products containing vitamin C specifically intended for use on the hair and scalp. Products that are intended for use on the face may contain other ingredients that can damage hair or be too heavy in consistency. Camp suggests closely reading the directions on the product you're using, and following them to a T. "Overzealous application can sometimes lead to scalp or hair irritation, and too little of the product may not lead to beneficial results."
The Best Products With Vitamin C
hair oil
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This hair oil is designed to act like a lip gloss for your hair. "This gloss contains kakadu plum oil, which is a source of vitamin C," says Camp. "It can be used as a leave-in treatment or before-shampoo mask."
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Camp recommends this conditioner, as he says it is packed with a number of nutrients including vitamins B, C, and E. Vitamin E works especially well with vitamin C.
Vitamin C Brightening Hair Treatment
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A hair treatment is a great way to use vitamin C on the hair, as it gives strands time to absorb the benefits. Garshick recommends The Inkey List's Vitamin C Brightening Hair Treatment, as she says it works to brighten hair and increase shine while helping to repair any damage.
FAQ
What benefits does vitamin C have for hair?
Vitamin C works as an antioxidant to help neutralize free radical damage, which can help to maintain scalp health. It can also help boost collagen production in the scalp and hair.
What types of hair is vitamin C best for?
Those with color-treated or damaged hair may benefit most from the collagen-boosting powers of vitamin C.
Does vitamin C treat hair loss or promote hair growth?
Research has demonstrated vitamin C's ability to repress DHT—a hormone that contributes to hair loss—meaning it may help to prevent hair loss.5
Hair Care: A healthy diet helps promote hair health. You must add all essential vitamins to your diet. Vitamin C is one of the important vitamins you must add to your diet. By: DoctorNDTV Updated: Aug 7, 2020 10:26 IST3-Min Read SHARES Hair Health: Heres How Vitamin C Can Help Boost Hair GrowthHair Care: Vitamin C is beneficial for your skin as well as hair
HIGHLIGHTS
A healthy diet promotes hair growthFollow a healthy hair care routine to promote hair growthVitamin C can help promote hair growth
Everyone dreams of healthy and shiny hair. There are innumerable hair care products in the market that promise lustre, volume and health. But often leaves your hair exposed to harmful chemicals. Several hacks and home remedies are quite popular to manage your hair. A few common ones are - application of curd or egg, honey mask and much more. But it is important to understand the significance of vitamins to your body including your hair. One such magic ingredient is Vitamin C. Let us understand Vitamin C and how it helps in building holistic hair care.
Hair care: How vitamin C helps boost hair growth and control hair problems
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The prime reason for hair damage is a free radical attack, which blocks your hair growth and causes them to age. One needs to understand that these free radicals are nothing but highly unstable oxidised molecules, that look out for stabilization (by stealing one electron from some other molecule), creating more free radicals in that process! Interestingly, Vitamin C plays an extremely crucial role here. It protects your hair from oxidative stress and acts as an antioxidant. An antioxidant is a molecule that donates an electron to stabilize the free radicals, without becoming free radicals themselves!
Also read: Can Vitamin C Help Control High Blood Pressure? Our Expert Explains
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Vitamin C can boost immunity, skin and hair health
Photo Credit: Pixabay
Additionally, 'collagen' is an important part of your hair structure. It is rich in amino acids that your body needs to build keratin, the protein that makes up hair. Vitamin C plays an important part in collagen formation. Eating foods which are high in vitamin C boost your body's natural collagen production which makes the hair stronger and supports in growth.
Also read: Vitamin E For Hair Growth: Here's How It Works
Vitamin C helps in the absorption of iron, an essential mineral for hair growth. It will surprise you to know that iron deficiency leads to low level of haemoglobin - a protein that transports oxygen for growth and repair of all body cells, including cells of the hair follicles. Vitamin C holds incredible benefits. It also prevents the hair from ageing faster. Now, let's understand how to receive optimum levels of vitamin C.
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Consume citrus fruits like lemons, orange, sweet lime, kiwi and amlas
Include bell peppers, tomatoes, broccoli, potatoes, spinach, moong, sprouts in your diet
Squeeze lemon at the time of consumption of vegetables, especially your beans and grains
Drink lemon juice for a refreshing start to your day
Lemon and honey are another good combination to add lustre to your hair
So, the next time you go for fresh fruits and vegetable shopping do not forget to pick-up your Vitamin C rich foods that ensure the long-term health of your hair.
Also read: Hair Care Tips: 5 Vitamins You Must Add To Your Diet For Those Healthy Locks
(Sakina Patrawala is a registered dietician, sports nutritionist and Founder of Zealwellness)
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Disclaimer: The opinions expressed within this article are the personal opinions of the author. NDTV is not responsible for the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this article. All information is provided on an as-is basis. The information, facts or opinions appearing in the article do not reflect the views of NDTV and NDTV does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.
Is vitamin C serum good for hair?
The best hair care products work by keeping your hair healthy. With healthy hair that’s strong and hydrated, it becomes much easier to style your hair any way you want. That’s why products like vitamin C serums for hair are becoming a staple part of people’s hair care routines.
So how does one use vitamin C serum for hair? This can be as simple as leaving on the serum after showering. Here’s what you should know about applying vitamin C serum and whether it’s an effective treatment you should add to your regimen.
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Steps to Use Vitamin C Serum
The first thing you should do is to identify the type of serum you’re using. Some serums are applied in the morning while getting ready for the day. Others are leave-on serums you put on before going to bed. In this article, we’ll be providing instructions on day serums.
Applying serum to your hair is easy. To nourish your hair, it’s best to apply after showering while your hair is still damp. You can also use it on dry hair after styling to give your hair a layer of protection for the rest of the day. Here’s a guide on how to use vitamin C serum for your hair correctly.
Dispense a pea-sized amount of serum. For those with medium-length hair, one or two pumps of serum are enough to cover your hair. Avoid using excess serum, as it can make your hair feel greasy and heavy.
Rub the serum between your palms and then massage the serum onto the middle to the tips of your hair. Keep massaging until all the serum is gone from your hands.
Style your hair as usual.
Pump a small amount of serum and rub it on your palms until they’re evenly coated. Apply the serum onto your styled hair starting from the back and making your way to the front. Add more serum to your hands as needed, but be careful not to use too much because this can make your hair look oily.
What Is Vitamin C Hair Serum?
Vitamin C serums are a topical product in the form of a liquid or gel with concentrations of vitamin C. The topical vitamin can be applied to the skin or hair to give the applied areas a stronger dose of vitamin C that your body doesn’t necessarily give.
While you might have vitamin C in your diet, not all of it goes to hair or skin care. Assuming you’re consuming the right amount of vitamin C every day, it can be enough to produce healthy hair. However, it might not be enough to protect your hair from external factors like UV rays, free radicals, heat treatments, and other damaging habits and practices.
Does It Work?
Many people notice a significant difference in their hair’s health after consistently using vitamin C serum in their daily routine. This is because vitamin C plays a role in healthy hair growth as well as protecting your existing hair as an antioxidant.
Over time, you can start to notice how the added vitamin C serum can protect your hair and scalp. By reducing the effects external factors can have on your hair and maintaining a healthy diet with enough vitamin C, you can see the full effect your hair can have from the added serum and see healthier and stronger hair.
Vitamin C Serum Benefits
Vitamin C (or L-ascorbic acid) is essential for several bodily functions. When it comes to the benefits of vitamin C for your hair, there are three main benefits.
First, vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant. When there are much more free radicals than antioxidants around you, it can cause oxidative stress. Your hair is vulnerable to this stress, which can lead to premature aging and hair graying. Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that can neutralize the free radicals around you and keep your hair from breaking down due to oxidative stress. As an antioxidant, the properties of vitamin C can also protect your hair from sun exposure. Sun exposure can result in both free radicals and UV exposure, which can age and dry out your hair, making it brittle.
Vitamin C also helps your body with collagen production. Collagen is an essential protein for skin and hair. For hair, proper collagen formation is necessary to develop stronger hair strands. When collagen production is healthy, it can build stronger hair that’s less prone to breakage. Your hair also becomes stronger at the roots, making it less prone to hair fall.
Finally, vitamin C helps your hair by improving blood circulation. Your body needs iron to help with blood flow, but certain conditions and medication can affect your body’s ability to absorb iron. Vitamin C can enhance your ability to absorb iron, which can improve blood flow and keep your scalp and hair follicles healthy.
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Other Ways to Keep Your Hair Healthy
Vitamin C serum can protect your hair, but it’s best to also take steps to practice healthy hair habits. Here are some of the habits you should observe to maintain your hair’s health and avoid exposing it to damaging factors:
Avoid shampooing your hair too much – how often it can vary between people, but an average estimate is around two to three days. If your hair is oily, your scalp itchy, and your head flaky, it’s a sign you’re not shampooing enough.
Minimize heat treatment – blow dryers, curling irons, and flat irons can dry out your hair’s natural oils. As much as possible, avoid heat treatments when necessary. If you really must use these, use a heat protectant spray or serum before using these devices.
Avoid prolonged sun exposure – this exposes your hair to free radicals and UV rays that can dry out your hair and cause premature aging signs like graying and hair loss. Vitamin C serums can minimize the effects of sun exposure, but wearing a hat outdoors is a good added layer of protection.
Minimize tight hairstyling – tight ponytails, braids, and cornrows can tug your hair from the roots for long periods of time. This can cause excessive hair loss. Consider tying your hair loosely (or not tying your hair at all) as much as possible.
Have a balanced diet – having a vitamin C deficiency can affect your hair growth, which can cancel out the effects of applying vitamin C serum. You need to consume sources of vitamin C every day, so if your diet doesn’t have vitamin C-rich food, you can take vitamin C supplements on a daily basis. Consult with your doctor before taking dietary vitamin supplements.
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Vitamin C serum is a great addition to your hair, scalp, and skincare routine. When used properly, it can give your hair an added layer of protection against drying factors that can damage your hair throughout the day. Combined with a healthy diet and proper care for your hair, you can have stronger, thicker, healthier hair to look and feel your best.
How long do I keep vitamin C in my hair?
Hate Your New Color? Here’s an Unexpected Solution
Giving your hair a different shade can offer you a major energy boost, but a big question hangs over every hair coloring treatment: What if I hate it? Thankfully, there’s a way to remove unsatisfactory treated color that won’t harm your hair any further.
The numbers are in:
According to the latest national consumer statistics, over 66 million people nationwide have used hair coloring products in 2018…
...and the year’s not even over yet!1
Of course, if you’ve ever experimented with your own color, you certainly understand the appeal.
Giving your tresses a revitalized, revamped, or bracingly different shade can offer you a major energy boost…
...infusing you with restored confidence, and making you feel like a brand new you!
“Whether you’re going darker, lighter, or enhancing your natural shade, revivified hair color can truly make you feel alive!”
But a big, terrifying question hangs over every hair coloring treatment:
WHAT IF I HATE IT?
Think of it:
You put your hair through the often abrasive punishment of a chemical coloring treatment.
Then you look in the mirror…and see a color that’s dull, brassy, or absolutely unsuited to your skin tone, workplace, or lifestyle.
That sinking feeling from a bad color treatment can break your heart like nothing else.
Plus, now you’ve got another tough question facing you:
HOW DO I GET RID OF THIS?
After all, you just put the health and condition of your hair at risk to achieve this new color.
The last thing you want is a color-removal treatment that leaves your hair even more damaged!Blond woman shopping
“Every hair dye removal treatment on the market promises you outstanding results...but how can you really be sure?”
Thankfully, there’s a way to remove unsatisfactory treated color that won’t harm your hair any further.
In fact, this treatment actually pampers your strands with essential invigorating nourishment.
And all it takes is combining your trusted shampoo with one of nature’s most steadfast wellness supporters:
VITAMIN C
Chances are, you already know about this vitamin’s bountiful health benefits…
...about the numerous studies celebrating vitamin C as a defender against everything from high blood pressure to heart disease.2
But it turns out vitamin C also packs the power you need to strip away unwanted treated color!
Bundle of Orange
“You’ve trusted your body to the power of vitamin C for years...now it’s time to give your hair that same tender loving vitamin C care!”
Here’s how it works:
Most hair coloring treatments change your hue by a process called oxidative dyeing.
HAIR LOSS NEVER AGAIN - 6 Vitamins for Faster Hair Growth, Thicker Hair, Hair Loss and More
That means when the dye hits a hair strand, it penetrates the shaft and transforms into larger molecular structures.
These structures wedge themselves between your cuticles, locking in the new color...and making them hard to get rid of!
But vitamin C is an acid, which gives it the scouring strength to work its way into those dye molecules…
...loosening their hold, and freeing that unattractive color from its vise grip on your hair.
And the best part is, it does this without harming the vitality of your hair’s natural shade!
A BEAUTIFUL BONUS
You’ll also be glad to know vitamin C doesn’t just work as a color treatment remover.
It also helps restore the health and strength your hair sacrificed to that treatment!
That’s because vitamin C helps your body generate collagen…
...a protein that offers vital support to the structure, shape, and flexibility of your hair strands.
And it enhances your body’s ability to absorb iron…
...a mineral critical for allowing you to keep growing sturdy, style-ready hair!3
Put this all together, and there’s no denying it:
Vitamin C is ready to make your hair look and feel fantastic...inside and out!
SAY GOODBYE TO BAD COLOR WITH VITAMIN C
To make this hair treatment, you’ll need some vitamin C tablets. You can find these at any pharmacy or store that specializes in nutritional supplements.
And you’ll be combining these tablets with the cleansing energy of your favorite shampoo.
Clarifying shampoo actually seems to mix especially well with the vitamin C...its ingredients super-charging the color-stripping potency of the vitamin’s acid.4
Dreamy Purifying Shampoo 8FL OZ
“A clarifying product like our Dreamy Purifying Shampoo helps you get even more color-treatment-stripping strength from the vitamin C.”
To make this simple-to-use at-home color-saving solution, here’s all you have to do:
Pour a quarter-sized dollop of the shampoo into a dish. If you’ve got especially long hair, you may want to use a little more.
Crush 5 to 10 vitamin C tablets into a fine powder.
Add the crushed tablets to the shampoo, and mix them together into a paste.
Apply this paste to your damp (not drenched) hair, making sure your locks are thoroughly coated.
Leave the mixture in your hair for 30 to 60 minutes. The time frame for this treatment makes it ideal to use while you’re reading, watching TV, or just enjoying some “me time.”
Rinse your hair completely.
Then, shampoo and condition as normal.
In just a few uses of this nutrient-rich, restorative vitamin C treatment…
...not only will your hair be returning to its healthy natural shade…
...it will also be battling its way back from the damage of that unsatisfying color!5
THE KIND OF COLOR YOU CRAVE
There’s no quicker way to feel like a whole new woman than treating yourself to a fresh hair color.
Unfortunately...there’s also nothing that hurts quite like a color treatment that leaves you looking less than your loveliest!
So, until the day when your hair comes with a built-in reset button…
...this no-fuss combination of shampoo and vitamin C is an outstanding go-to color cure.
Give it a try if you find yourself facing the bad color blues.
It’ll leave your hair enriched, energized, and ready to deliver a color and style that truly satisfies!
Can you put vitamin C on scalp?
Hundreds of years ago, before vitamin C was known to science, sailors would fall ill with the dreaded “scurvy.” Without fresh citrus fruits and vegetables to provide this vital nutrient, they suffered from weakness, exhaustion, bleeding gums, skin ulcers, and even death.
Did they also suffer from dandruff? Possibly!
Vitamin C is an essential nutrient for human beings. If you’re not getting enough in your diet (through fresh fruits and vegetables or through a water-soluble vitamin supplementation), you can run into a range of health complications. Let’s explore how your body uses vitamin C, and why it’s so important for your scalp and hair health.
An Essential Nutrient for Skin & Body
Getting enough vitamin C is crucial to the body’s ability to repair damage, fight intravenous conditions (because it stimulates white blood cells), and produce collagen - a protein that makes up much of our connective tissue and provides our skin with its elasticity and structure.
Today, most Americans are getting their daily recommended dietary allowance of vitamin C. Maybe you take an extra dose as part of a dietary supplement or multivitamin to help fight off the sniffles of a common cold and boost your general health and wellness.
Or you might have come across specialized, skincare products with high levels of vitamin C or vitamin C supplements, especially face serums with large doses of vitamin C content. Applied directly to the skin, vitamin C is famous for its ability to brighten rough, dull, or discolored areas, and for its anti-aging effects. When marketed with the name L-ascorbic acid, it is said to help plump up the skin and reduce fine lines (again, thanks to its promotion of collagen production).
You’ve probably also heard about vitamin C’s antioxidant properties, which can help stave off cellular damage in the skin and throughout the body. Vitamin C’s potency as an antioxidant is also responsible for its immune-boosting powers and some of its anti-aging effects in skin care without very many side effects. Plus, it can help your body with the absorption of iron, which can help treat anemia. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), it's been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease, tightening the cells lining your blood vessels, and so much more.
Given all these powerful benefits of vitamin C for general wellness and skin health, it shouldn’t be too surprising that it can help your scalp, too. But how exactly does it work? And what’s the best way to get the benefits of this vitamin?
More on that in a moment - but first, let’s get clear on what dandruff is and what causes it.
Scalp Health 101
Little white flakes. If you’re experiencing dandruff, you know and probably dislike them. Those flakes, and the itchiness that comes with them, are due to the irritation of your scalp. It’s not a serious health threat, but it can cause a lot of discomfort.
But few people are familiar with dandruff’s root causes. That may be because dandruff is a bit taboo as a conversation topic, even though over half the population is believed to suffer from it. It turns out that there are many reasons your scalp might get irritated, and they all lead to the same outcome: itchy, flaking skin. Here are some of those risk factors:
Diet
Researchers think diets lacking certain nutrients could make dandruff more likely. These may include vitamin C deficiency, as well as zinc, omega 3 fatty acids, B vitamins, and others. Some scientists believe diets that are known to cause inflammation - like those high in sugar, unhealthy fats, processed foods, and allergens - are likely to exacerbate dandruff symptoms, too.
Climate & Air Quality
Humidity levels, air pollution, and sun exposure can play a role in skin health, causing a kind of damage at the cellular level called oxidative stress as well as visible signs of aging. Dandruff tends to get worse for many people in cold weather, dry climates, and in polluted areas.
Genetics
Your genes can play a role in how prone to dandruff symptoms you are. Skin conditions, allergies, or general skin sensitivities can all be genetic.
Stress Level
Stress is increasingly recognized for the toll it can take on our physical health. For some, stress can cause stomach aches and digestive problems. Others grind their teeth at night or have acne breakouts. And some see dandruff symptoms worsen.
There are many reasons to invest in regular self-care to manage stress - whether that’s time in nature, mindfulness meditation, or exercise - the benefits of which can improve your overall physical health including your ability to fight dandruff.
Microbes
The “microbiome” of the gut has become a trending topic in health and wellness. You might have heard discussions about how the natural flora in your intestinal tract can impact everything from your immune system to your mood.
The truth is that billions of tiny microorganisms play crucial roles in every part of our body - including our skin. Malassezia is a genus of fungus that naturally occurs on human skin. An overgrowth of Malassezia is thought to play a role in dandruff.
Age
Hormone levels are another likely factor in dandruff, which could help explain why the risk for dandruff varies according to age. For some, symptoms often start during puberty and get less severe over time.
Underlying Skin Conditions
Psoriasis, eczema, and dermatitis can all cause or contribute to flaking. If you have symptoms beyond an itchy, flaky scalp, it’s smart to see your doctor or dermatologist to address your health concerns. But also be aware that it’s definitely possible to have dandruff without having any of these skin conditions.
Vitamin C can be a powerful aid in breaking the unhealthy skin cycles that often lead to dandruff symptoms.
Every Dandruff Case is Unique - But The Treatment is The Same
Dandruff isn’t curable. And with so many potential risk factors, it can be hard to pinpoint precisely what’s behind any one case. Fortunately, dandruff can be easily managed. It’s entirely possible to keep flakes and irritation in check using a proven scalp treatment in combination with small lifestyle changes.
The process leading to scalp itchiness and flaking generally includes a buildup of excess sebum on your scalp and too much of a fungus that feeds on it (Malassezia). This fungus then produces waste that the scalp can find especially irritating, leading to itching and flaking.
Treating the symptoms associated with dandruff effectively means interrupting this process. The key is regular use of a scientifically formulated product including the active ingredient, Zinc Pyrithione, that helps remove excess sebum and dead skin while taming Malassezia overgrowth.
How Vitamin C Can Help
The effects of Vitamin C can be powerful at breaking the unhealthy skin cycles that often lead to dandruff symptoms. Common good sources of vitamin C include ascorbic acid and ascorbate. These compounds are crucial to the body’s ability to repair damaged tissues. Aside from vitamin C supplementation, it can be found in foods such as brussels sprouts, red peppers and, most famously, citrus fruits.
Here’s how the special properties of vitamin C might help address dandruff:
A Potent Antioxidant
Oxidative stress - a type of damage occurring within the cells of our body - is thought to play a central role in aging, including many age-related diseases like Alzheimer’s disease, macular degeneration, cataracts, cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus, and more. Oxidative stress from sun exposure, smoking, and pollution is also behind many of the visible signs of aging in the skin, including dark spots, loss of elasticity, and wrinkles.
Vitamin C is thought to combat this type of damage. As one of the most potent antioxidants in the skin, it helps neutralize molecules called free radicals that cause oxidative stress. This may help promote wound healing, and can help strengthening the scalp and hair through increased collagen production.
Collagen Booster
Collagen provides essential structure in the body. It is also a major element in skin and helps keep it strong, elastic, and moisturized - elements we associate with a youthful and healthy appearance.
High doses of vitamin C seems to boost collagen production, which can help fight the appearance of dryness and rough skin on a scalp with dandruff.
Immune System Regulator
The immune system is thought to play a role in dandruff, in part because people with seriously compromised immune systems are more likely to suffer from the condition. Some researchers think the immune system in dandruff sufferers may actually be overreacting to an overgrowth of the Malassezia fungus on the scalp. This would explain the resulting irritation.
While it’s still not clear exactly how the immune system works in causing or contributing to dandruff, strengthening your body’s ability to fight infection is never a bad idea. Vitamin C’s role in boosting immunity may have some benefit in addressing dandruff.
Vitamin C is known to be “immunomodulatory” - in other words, it doesn’t just boost your immune function, it can help to better regulate it. So whatever the immune system’s role in dandruff, it’s possible vitamin C can help.
Antimicrobial Properties
Since fungal overgrowth is linked to dandruff, it’s wise to look to antimicrobial ingredients to help control the condition. Vitamin C is known to fight infections, including those from bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
Should I Try Vitamin C Skin Serum on My Flaky Scalp?
Although vitamin C can be a useful part of your skin care routine, it’s not a good idea to simply pour it on your scalp, especially without medical advice from a health professional or your healthcare provider. Instead, look for this ingredient as part of a balanced chemical formulation built with your scalp health in mind which will lower the risk of adverse effects.
The pitfalls of going DIY with scalp care are significant, especially for people who already have sensitive or irritated skin. Using vitamin C in high concentrations directly on the scalp can lead to increased irritation.
Through clinical trials, vitamin C intake on its own is proven to not be very shelf stable and will break down quickly if not combined with other ingredients to help stabilize it. This is another reason to look to professional anti-dandruff formulas; they’re designed to stay fresh and keep the vitamin C they contain active.
But the most important risk of going DIY with your dandruff remedy is that it just won’t work. A professionally formulated anti-dandruff product is the key, and you need one containing Zinc Pyrithione, a proven dandruff-fighting active ingredient, and tested in the lab to ensure it’ll really kick your flakes to the curb.
Don't Be Flaky
It's important that your anti-dandruff product treats your flakes and itching but also nourishes and indulges your hair and your senses at the same time. Look for the powerful active ingredient Zinc Pyrithione to help fight dandruff, paired with calming, luxe ingredients like vitamin C and vitamin E to leave your scalp and hair looking its best.
How can I stop my hair loss?
Seeking treatment early is key to preventing baldness. Since hair loss only gets worse with time, there is a point where it is not treatable.
Losing your hair isn't the end of the world, but for most people it certainly isn't ideal. You may be wondering what you can do to prevent hair loss (alopecia) from happening to you. According to NYU Langone Health, as many as 80 percent of men and 50 percent of women will experience some form of hair loss in their lifetime. But are there things you can do to prevent baldness from happening altogether?
There are certain factors to take into consideration. “As people age, their rate of hair growth slows. Some people, however, due to genetic makeup or underlying medical conditions develop alopecia, which is also known as hair loss or baldness,” Ricardo Castrellon, MD, a plastic surgeon at Mercy in Miami Hospital tells WebMD Connect to Care.
In most cases, hair loss actually can be prevented, but taking early action is important. “Baldness is preventable, but early intervention is key. If a person starts to notice thinning and shedding or hair loss of any kind, it is important to get on a regimen as soon as possible. Hair loss is a progressive condition and only gets worse with time, and there is a point where it is not treatable,” Jared Reynolds, BIOCHEM, founder of Zenagen Hair Care says.
HAIR THINNING | 5 Nutrient Deficiencies Linked to Hair Loss (and how to fix it!)
Is All Hair Loss Preventable?
According to Mayo Clinic, the majority of baldness is caused by genetics, usually known as male-pattern baldness and female-pattern baldness, and cannot be prevented. This type of hair loss is called androgenic alopecia, which is a genetic condition. While androgenic alopecia cannot be prevented, it can be treated and its progression can be slowed.
“Androgenic alopecia can start at any age. Unfortunately, by the time hair loss is noticeable 50 percent of hairs have already fallen from the scalp. The earlier you begin treatment, the more effective non-surgical treatments can be,” Matthew Lopresti, MD, chief surgeon at Leonard Hair Transplant Associates says.
Alopecia areata is also a genetic disease and usually first appears during childhood. The good news is that when someone has alopecia areata, their hair can grow back even after it has fallen out. So while hair loss from alopecia areata cannot be prevented, it can be treated. According to the National Alopecia Areata Foundation, your hair follicles remain alive even during active periods of alopecia areata and you can experience hair regrowth even if you have already lost more than 50 percent of your hair.
If your hair loss is not due to a genetic condition, it’s likely that it can be prevented. According to NYU Langone Health, hair loss from stress, menopause, pregnancy, smoking, or other lifestyle or medical conditions can be prevented and sometimes even reversed once it starts happening.
How To Prevent Balding
One of the best things you can do to prevent hair loss is to take charge of stress. Exercising and finding time to relax can keep you healthy and help you prevent hair loss by lowering your stress levels. Especially if you are experiencing a major life event, such as the loss of a loved one or the end of a relationship, it’s important to find outlets to relieve your stress so that you do not experience stress-induced hair loss.
If you want to prevent hair loss, you can also prioritize a diet high in healthy proteins, Omega-3 fatty acids, and fresh fruits and vegetables. If you’re trying to prevent baldness, you can take vitamins such as iron, biotin, vitamin D, vitamin C, and zinc. It’s always a good idea to consult with your doctor before taking any new vitamins or supplements.
Don’t Wait. Get Help Today.
The sooner you address the symptoms of hair loss, the more likely you are to prevent irreversible damage. Speak to a medical professional today to begin your journey to a fuller head of hair.
What vitamins Am I lacking if my hair won't grow?
Are you struggling to maintain strong, healthy-looking hair? What many people don’t realize is that hair growth has a great deal to do with diet. The growth of hair is a complex metabolic process requiring multiple nutrients, vitamins, and enzymes. If you have a vitamin deficiency then you may experience hair loss and your hair won’t be able to grow to its full potential. So what vitamin deficiencies cause hair loss?
What Vitamin Deficiency Causes Hair Loss and Breakage?
Which vitamins are the best for hair? To find out it is important to know which deficiencies cause poor hair growth. Based on our research, here is a list of the top 11 vitamins and minerals for healthy hair growth.
1. Vitamin C Deficiency Hair Loss
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant and integral vitamin to the immune system. It plays a role in collagen production and the absorption of iron. A deficiency in this vitamin may contribute to hair loss or brittle, weak hair.3 Vitamin C deficiency is known to cause scurvy, an ancient disease that resulted in poor gum health and other connective tissue problems.
Vitamin C is necessary for the development and repair of all tissues throughout your body. It helps with the production of collagen, an essential protein to make healthy skin and strong hair. Vitamin C is also needed for healing wounds and maintaining healthy teeth and bones.1
Vitamin C deficiency causes dry, breaking hair, rough skin, and bleeding gums.2 Along with other nutrients, vitamin C helps support hair growth by assisting with collagen production and supporting the absorption of non-heme iron3 (iron from plant sources).
Because Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin, your body cannot store excess amounts of it so it must be replenished through your diet. Good sources of vitamin C include dark leafy greens, green and red bell peppers, potatoes, broccoli, brussels sprouts, spinach, and citrus fruits.
2. B-Complex Vitamins Deficiency Hair Loss
There are 8 B-complex vitamins (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B9 and B12) that support a number of body functions such as the production of healthy cells (B1), warding off damage caused by free radicals (B2), and monitoring and supporting brain function and mood (B9).
Biotin
B-complex deficiency may cause dizziness and fatigue as well as hair loss and weak, brittle hair. B vitamins, particularly biotin (B7), support hair growth by strengthening the keratin structure of the hair shaft, the part of the hair structure that is visible. Hair loss and dry skin are both signs of biotin deficiency. The daily dosage for biotin ranges from 30 micrograms and more. Dairy products, eggs, nuts and meat contain large amounts of biotin. Biotin supplements typically supply 5,000 mcg per dose.
10 Vitamins and Minerals Deficiencies that Cause Hair Loss
Vitamin B-5 (Pantothenic Acid)
Although biotin is probably the best known of the B-complex vitamins for hair growth, there’s also B5, or pantothenic acid. Many hair growth products contain vitamin B5 because it can improve hair growth. Scientist studying mice on a purified diet noticed that a lack of inositol and pantothenic acid caused mice to become hairless.14 You’ll find vitamin B5 in chicken, eggs, dairy products, nuts, beef, and potatoes.
Vitamin B-6 (Pyridoxal-5-phosphate)
Hair growth is a complicated metabolic process involving thousands of chemical reactions. Vitamin B-6, or pyridoxal-5-phosphate is involved in 100 or so reactions involving protein, lipids, and glucose metabolism.14 Your hair is actually a product of protein synthesis. Beautiful hair gets its shine from lipids or oils produced by the scalp. Because of Vitamin B-6’s role in protein and lipid metabolism it is a great vitamin to take for hair loss. Good Vitamin B-6 sources include cheese, fish, poultry, spinach, and whole grain cereals.
Vitamin B-12 Deficiency Hair Loss
Vitamin B12 is involved in the synthesis of DNA and the production of red blood cells. Blood is made up of oxygen-carrying red blood cells and Vitamin B-12 is essential to producing enough red blood cells. Having enough circulation ensures good hair growth.
Studies have found that low serum vitamin B12 levels is a common trait in those with forms of hair loss, particularly telogen effluvium.21
You can find vitamin B-12 in beef liver, clams, dairy products, eggs, and fortified cereals.
Vitamin B-9 (Folate) Deficiency Hair Loss
Folate, also known as vitamin B9 or folic acid, plays a central role in the synthesis of DNA, RNA, and proteins. All of these processes are involved in the production of hair. Many cereal and grain products include folate, and it’s also found in legumes, leafy greens, and fruits.
Folate, like iron, is involved with producing red blood cells and therefore helps maintain healthy skin, nails, and hair. Folate deficiency can contribute to anemia and impairs the proper transport of oxygen and nutrients to hair cells.20
3. Vitamin E
Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin and a potent antioxidant that helps prevent damage to cells and tissues caused by free radicals. Free radicals are highly reactive and can damage DNA, RNA, as well as proteins. Vitamin E is also involved in the synthesis of blood cells which are important for circulation and the supply of oxygen to tissues throughout the body.4
Although vitamin E deficiency is rare, deficiency can lead to nerve and muscle damage as well as vision problems. This vitamin helps support hair growth by supporting circulation in the scalp and reducing free radical damage to hair follicles.
Vitamin E comes in eight naturally occurring forms, though alpha-tocopherol is the only usable form recognized to meet human needs. Concentrations of vitamin E in the blood are regulated by the liver, which takes up vitamin E after its various forms have been absorbed by the small intestine.
Vitamin E is naturally found in numerous foods. Alpha-tocopherol is found in nuts, seeds, vegetable oils, and green leafy vegetables. Many breakfast cereals are also fortified with alpha-tocopherol. In the average American diet, vitamin E most commonly comes in the form of gamma-tocopherol, which is found in canola, soybeans, corn, and related vegetable oils.
4. Vitamin A
As well as helping with the development and maintenance of healthy skin, teeth, and bones, vitamin A produces pigments in the retinas of your eyes and helps with vision, particularly in low light. This is because vitamin A is an essential component of the protein rhodopsin, which is responsible for absorbing light in retinal receptors. Vitamin A also helps with wound healing and strengthens your immune system.
Vitamin A deficiency is rare but when it happens you can expect to have symptoms such as dry eyes, poor night vision, skin problems, and diarrhea.5
Vitamin A is another powerful antioxidant. In one study patients with alopecia areata were found to have lower blood levels of vitamin A and other antioxidants.17 Vitamin A supplementation could support hair growth by helping to maintain high levels of antioxidants. Keep in mind that while you need some Vitamin A to support hair growth, too much of this vitamin may cause the hair problems you are trying to avoid. Too much Vitamin A over-stimulates hair follicles, causing hair to reach the end of its growth cycle prematurely. When this happens, hair becomes thinner because your body is unable to create new hair growth fast enough.6
Vitamin A is available in two forms in the human diet. Preformed vitamin A, comprising retinol and retinyl ester, comes from animal sources of food, including fish, dairy products, and meat, particularly liver. Provitamin A carotenoids, including alpha-carotene, beta-carotene, and beta-cryptoxanthin, are compounds that are converted into vitamin A in the body. Provitamin A carotenoids comprise plant pigments and are most often found in orange-colored fruits and vegetables, including carrots, sweet potatoes, pumpkins, and squash. Both preformed vitamin A and provitamin A carotenoids must still be converted into active forms of vitamin A (retinal and retinoic acid).24
DrFormulas® HairOmega® line of hair vitamins contain the perfect amount of Vitamin A to support skin health and hair growth, between 100-200% of the Daily Value.
5. Vitamin D Deficiency Hair Loss
While the main role of vitamin D is to maintain healthy levels of calcium and phosphorous in the blood, research shows that vitamin D has important roles in hair growth.7 Vitamin D plays an important role in maintaining immune health. Immune systems can sometimes attack the body’s own hair follicles, causing poor growth and hair loss. Some of these autoimmune conditions include alopecia areata and alopecia totalis. Supplementation with vitamin D can help blunt inflammatory responses that impair hair growth.
Vitamin D is synthesized endogenously when your skin is exposed to UV rays from the sun. This means that you probably don’t need vitamin D supplementation if you spend a lot of time in the sun. Since vitamin D aids hair growth, if you aren’t outside much or it’s during the dark days of winter, consider investing in a sun lamp or taking a vitamin D supplement.
Vitamin D is not found in many foods naturally, though beef liver, salmon, and eggs are good sources of vitamin D. Most of the vitamin D in the average American diet comes from fortified foods, including milk, breakfast cereals, and some brands of yogurt, orange juice, and margarine. The two most important forms of this vitamin are D2, which is obtained from plant foods, and D3, which is made by animals and by the skin when exposed to sunlight. Most supplements contain vitamin D3.
6. Iron
Iron is an essential mineral that mainly plays a role in the production of hemoglobin, a substance in red blood cells that allows them to carry oxygen throughout the body, 8 including cells that contribute to hair growth.
UNCLOG YOUR FOLLICLES FOR BETTER HAIR GROWTH!! | SCALP CARE 101
Iron deficiency is the most common form of nutritional deficiency. It causes anemia, a condition that inhibits red blood cells from delivering oxygen throughout the body. Symptoms include fatigue, pale skin, shortness of breath, brittle nails, cold hands and feet, and hair loss.9 In extreme cases, those suffering from iron deficiency may develop pica, or a craving for non-food items such as dirt.
Iron supports hair growth by promoting healthy circulation and transporting oxygen and other essential nutrients to hair follicles.
Iron deficiencies can result in a variety of symptoms, including extreme fatigue, poor appetite, and brittle nails. Without iron, hair cells may lack the necessary oxygen and nutrients to properly grow, potentially resulting in hair loss or brittle hair.18
Iron deficiency hair loss most often affects women. Women who regularly experience heavy periods are especially at risk for iron deficiency.16 Fortunately, a simple blood test performed by your doctor can detect iron levels. If your iron levels are low, the doctor may recommend an iron supplement. It is not wise to take iron supplements if they are not necessary, so don’t purchase over-the-counter iron supplements unless you have had a blood test and your doctor recommends a specific type of supplement.
Dietary iron comes in heme and nonheme forms. Meat, seafood, and poultry contain both heme and nonheme, while plant sources and fortified foods generally only contain nonheme iron. Heme iron has a higher bioavailability than nonheme iron, and sources of heme iron can increase the absorption of nonheme iron.
Foods rich in iron include salmon, dried fruit, pork, spinach, and peas, and these are ways to boost iron without supplementation. You may also want to consume iron-fortified cereals. Vitamin C allows your body to absorb iron, particularly nonheme iron, more effectively, so make sure to include lots of foods containing this antioxidant in your diet in order to ensure optimal absorption and bioavailability of iron.
7. Magnesium Deficiency Hair Loss
Magnesium is necessary for the division, growth, and function of cells. Magnesium participates in more than 300 biochemical reactions in the body including growth of hair. Many enzymes require magnesium to function, particularly those involved with transferring energy and nucleic acid synthesis. Magnesium is also necessary for the structural development of bones, as well as synthesis of DNA, RNA, and glutathione (a vital antioxidant).
Because of magnesium’s role in metabolism and metabolic reactions having ample magnesium supports hair growth. Low magnesium may contribute to hair loss or weakening particularly in women going through menopause.24
Magnesium also helps support a healthy immune system, normal muscle, and nerve functions. It also keeps your heart strong, regulates blood glucose levels, and helps with the production of protein and energy.10
Signs of magnesium deficiency include nausea, weakness, fatigue, vomiting, irregular heart rhythms, muscle contractions, and hair loss.
Thankfully, magnesium is easily found in plant and animal sources. In general, any foods containing dietary fiber also provide magnesium. This includes green leafy vegetables, nuts, legumes, seeds, and whole grains. Magnesium is also commonly added to breakfast cereals and fortified foods. However, some forms of food processing can significantly deplete the magnesium content in foods. For example, refined grains often undergo a process that removes the germ and bran, which are rich in magnesium and other nutrients.
8. Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fatty acids. Although they are necessary for good health, the body does not make them, so they must be obtained through one’s diet from fatty fish such as sardines, salmon, and mackerel, eggs, walnuts, flaxseed, or supplements.
In supplement form, they are available in fish, flaxseed, or borage oils. Omega-3 fatty acids not only keep hair thick and full, but helps your skin look radiant. Because omega-3 fatty acids fight inflammation, they can help prevent hair loss, fight acne, lower your risk of heart disease, and are important for healthy brain functions. Omega-3 fatty acids primarily support hair growth by reducing inflammation.
Symptoms of omega-3 fatty acid deficiency include poor memory, fatigue, dry skin, poor circulation, and mood swings.11
9. Zinc Deficiency Hair Loss
Zinc is an essential mineral that is involved in various parts of cellular metabolism, protein synthesis, and general immune function.
Zinc deficiency can cause hair loss, diarrhea, and eye and skin conditions.12
Having enough zinc supports cellular replication and the hair growth. Studies suggest that those experiencing some forms of hair loss have low zinc levels, and supplementing with zinc may contribute to hair growth.13
10. Selenium Deficiency Hair Loss
Selenium is an essential nutrient that is not made in the body but can be found in foods like spinach, eggs, chicken, and yellowfin tuna. Selenium contributes to the health of your joints, eyes, reproductive system, and immune system. It is also required as a cofactor in certain enzymes for hair growth.
Selenium also has antioxidant properties, which means it helps reverse some of the damage to cells and tissues caused by free radicals. In combination with zinc, selenium supports healthy hair growth by maintaining healthy hormone levels, metabolism, and the production of hair.
Your body only needs a trace of selenium, as too much can cause brittle nails, hair loss, skin rashes, fatigue, and irritability.
11. Copper Deficiency Hair Loss
Copper is necessary for the proper metabolism and absorption of iron, both of which work together to help the body form red blood cells. Copper is also necessary to immune function and healthy bones, nerves, and blood vessels. Low copper levels may prevent proper creation of red blood cells, preventing a supply of nutrients to hair cells. Copper is also essential to the production of melanin, the compound responsible for providing skin, eyes, and hair with their color, so a copper deficiency may potentially contribute to premature greying hair.22
What are the best vitamins for hair loss?
Vitamins that contain the aforementioned ingredients will help support healthy hair growth. However, if you are having pattern hair loss or more specifically androgenetic alopecia or female pattern hair loss, you may also need to use a DHT Blocker along with your hair vitamins.
What vitamin makes your hair grow?
Vitamins and supplements that promise hair growth almost sound too good to be true. Can taking a pill once or twice a day really make your hair longer, stronger and healthier?
Hair loss or thinning hair can be caused by a variety of culprits—including nutrition deficiencies. So while vitamins and supplements are not a miracle cure by any means, the right ones just might make a difference in the way your hair looks and feels.
Here’s a look at the best vitamins for hair growth, and a few supplements experts recommend.
Ritual Essential For Women Multivitamin 18+
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Cost
$0.50
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Features
Gluten Free, Major Allergen Free, Vegan-friendly, Non-GMO
Key Nutrients
Iron, Omega-3 DHA, Vitamin D, Magnesium
Ritual Essential For Men Multivitamin 18+
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On Ritual's Website
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$0.50
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Gluten Free, Major Allergen Free, Vegan-friendly, Non-GMO
Key Nutrients
Vitamin D, Folate, Vitamin A, Magnesium
Ritual The Co-Habit
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Cost
$50
Vegan-friendly
Yes
Essential for Women 18+ Ingredients
Vitamin D3, Vitamin K, Vitamin B12, Omega-3 DHA, Folate
Essential for Men 18+ Ingredients
Vitamin A, Vitamin D3, Folate, Omega-3 DHA, Vitamin K
(Note: Product details and prices are accurate as of publication and are subject to change.)
What Types of Vitamins Help With Hair Growth?
Hair growth and healthiness are influenced by a number of factors, including nutrition, genetics, medical conditions, hormones and even stress. Research finds that a deficiency in vitamins and minerals important for normal cell growth and function may contribute to hair loss[1].
“Vitamins are essential for healthy hair growth and may help in preventing hair shedding and thinning,” says Michele Green, M.D., a cosmetic dermatologist in New York. “The best vitamins for hair growth include B vitamins, vitamin D, vitamin E, zinc, biotin and iron.
Vitamin B
Complex B vitamins play a role in hair growth, and are “essential for metabolism and nervous system function,” says Dr. Green. “It is no wonder that B vitamins like vitamin B7 (biotin) and B12 are important to strengthen and condition the hair.”
Research shows you can easily reach the daily allowances of B vitamins by eating a balanced diet. B vitamins can be found in a variety of foods, including 100% whole grains, meat, fish, whole eggs, nuts and avocados.
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Biotin
Biotin, also known as vitamin B7, is a complex B vitamin that is often touted for having hair growth benefits. And some of that hype may actually be worth it. Biotin has functions in “creating red blood cells, which carry oxygen and nutrients to the scalp and hair follicles,” says Dr. Green. It also “plays a role in keratin production, which is a main component of hair.”
Most people receive enough biotin from the foods they eat, notes the National Institutes of Health. The best way to get more is to eat biotin-rich foods. Dr. Green recommends milk, eggs, bananas, salmon, sweet potatoes and almonds. If you do feel you need an extra boost, talk to your doctor—supplement labels reveal that many biotin supplements for hair, skin and nails far exceed the recommended daily amount.
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Vitamin C
Vitamin C isn’t only good for maintaining immunity, it may also make hair stronger. Dr. Green notes that as a powerful antioxidant, vitamin C is essential for healthy hair growth. “Vitamin C helps increase blood circulation throughout your body, including your scalp,” she says. “When there is increased blood circulation to your scalp, there is greater stimulation of your hair follicles, which may help promote hair growth.”
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Iron
Iron plays a surprisingly important role in hair growth, too, and research in the Journal of Korean Medical Science suggests a link between iron deficiencies and hair loss among women[2]. This micronutrient boosts circulation and helps move oxygen to your cells more efficiently, explains Dr. Green, which may aid in hair growth. “If you do not get enough iron, your body cannot produce sufficient hemoglobin, which will falter oxygen delivery to your scalp and contribute to hair loss,” she says.
She recommends eating foods high in iron, such as clams, red meat, spinach and lentils. An iron supplement may also be worth adding to your routine if you are at risk of iron deficiency, but check with your doctor first.
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Keratin
Keratin is a protein that makes up our hair, skin and nails, notes Dr. Green. It’s naturally produced by the body, and there are many keratin supplements out there that claim to help with hair growth. However, Dr. Green suggests “supplementing” with keratin in a more natural way—by eating protein-rich foods like eggs, beans, fish and meats—rather than taking a pill. “There are no reliable studies that show keratin helps with hair growth,” she says. “Additionally, over-supplementing keratin can be harmful due to excess protein buildup in the body.”
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Vitamin D
A deficiency in vitamin D may result in hair loss, according to Dr. Green. “Vitamin D is metabolized in the skin by keratinocytes, skin cells that produce keratin,” she says. “When the body does not have enough vitamin D, the keratinocytes in hair follicles have trouble facilitating hair growth, resulting in shedding and hair loss.”
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Zinc
Zinc is a trace mineral and only needed by the body in small amounts. It’s small but mighty, and plays a role in everything from the growth of cells to creating DNA. “Low levels of zinc have been associated with hair loss and poor wound healing,” says Dr. Green. She recommends eating zinc-rich foods, like meat, beans, nuts and seeds.
3 HAIR GROWTH HACKS YOU NEED TO KNOW!
If you struggle with hair loss or hair thinning, it also might be worth talking to your doctor about whether a zinc supplement could be right for you. One small study found that zinc supplementation should be given to alopecia patients who have a low serum zinc level[3].
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Vitamin A
Vitamin A might help with hair growth, but there’s a catch: taking too much of it might actually result in hair loss.Vitamin A refers to a group of compounds that include retinol, retinal, retinoic acid and provitamin A carotenoids, explains Dr. Green. “There has been a study involving mice that showed dietary vitamin A activated hair follicle stem cells,” she says. “However, this is complex…on the contrary, there has been evidence that high levels of vitamin A through over-supplementation is linked to hair loss.”
She notes that while vitamin A deficiency can contribute to hair loss, it’s not common in the U.S, adding that unless you have proof of a vitamin A deficiency, there’s no reason to supplement.
Eating foods rich in vitamin A may be better, she says, including leafy greens like kale, spinach and broccoli, orange vegetables like carrots, pumpkin and sweet potatoes, and yellow vegetables like squash.
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Other Nutrients for Hair Growth
The above vitamins and minerals aren’t the only way to improve your hair health; Dr. Green notes that some oils, like rosemary and coconut oil, may also help with hair growth. A study found that consistent use of rosemary oil over several months led to an increase in hair count[4].
You May Also Be Interested In Hair Growth Supplements Available On Amazon
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Meanwhile, another study that compared coconut oil to mineral oil and sunflower oil found that coconut oil was the only one that reduced the protein loss for both undamaged and damaged hair when it was used as a pre-wash and post-wash treatment[5].
Supplements for Hair Growth
In addition to a diet that’s rich in all the vitamins and minerals that can impact hair growth, there are an array of over-the-counter supplements specifically geared toward those struggling with hair thinning or hair loss. As with any supplement, though, be sure to speak with your doctor.
Here are a few hair growth supplements recommended by experts.
Nutrafol
Nutrafol is a line of supplements designed to encourage hair growth, make hair thicker and stronger and reduce shedding. The brand sells a few different types of supplements: one for women, one for postpartum, one for menopausal women and one for men.
Dr. Green—who is a part of Nutrafol’s physician network and offers the supplement through her practice—recommends Nutrafol if you’re looking for an effective supplement that will help with hair growth. “I like Nutrafol supplements because the company and products cater to different genders as well as ages,” she says. “It contains all natural ingredients that target the causes of hair thinning like stress, DHT, free radicals and nutrition.”
Nutrafol has products for men that include saw palmetto, which she says “prevents the conversion of testosterone to DHT [the hormone linked to male pattern baldness].” Meanwhile, Nutrafol for Women contains ashwagandha, which she says “addresses the negative effects of chronic stress by controlling cortisol, a stress hormone.” There are also products for women over 45 years of age, which are made with organic maca root to “promote healthy female hormone balance and contribute to better sleep, positive mood and reduced hot flashes.”
Nutrafol also contains vitamins A, D, and C, biotin and zinc.
You May Also Be Interested In Nutrafol Products Available On Amazon
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Nutrafol Strengthening Duo
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Cost
$119
Type
Men's Hair Growth Supplement and Physician-Formulated Collagen
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Capsule and Powder
Nutrafol Women’s Balance
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Cost
$157
Type
Hair Supplement For Menopause and Growth Activator Hair Serum
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Capsule and Serum
Nutrafol Postpartum Supplement
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Cost
$88
Type
Postpartum Supplement For Hair Growth
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Nutrafol Men Hair Supplement and Growth Activator Hair Serum
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Cost
$157
Type
Nutrafol Men Hair Supplement and Growth Activator Hair Serum
Items Form
Capsules and Serum
(Note: All prices are accurate as of publication and are subject to change.)
Viviscal
Viviscal is another line of supplements for hair growth. The brand offers supplements for both women and men, and has a line of haircare products including shampoos and conditioners.
Dr. Green recommends Viviscal as a good option for hair growth, saying “it is 100% drug-free and contains ingredients like vitamin C, biotin and other essential amino acids.”
Hum Nutrition Hair Sweet Hair
Hum Nutrition’s Hair Sweet Hair is a line of vegan gummies designed to make hair stronger and healthier, which encourages growth. Dr. Green recommends these gummies since they contain biotin, folic acid, vitamin B12 and zinc, as well as other ingredients that have been shown to promote the health of hair follicles and prevent hair loss.
“These are formulated with all-natural and clinically-proven ingredients that can make a difference in your hair with consistent usage,” she says.
When To See a Doctor
It’s normal to shed anywhere from 50 to 100 hairs a day, even if that seems like a lot, Dr. Green points out. For many, hair loss is also part of getting older.
However, there are cases in which a trip to the doctor is warranted. Dr. Green recommends seeing a board-certified dermatologist to go over your options.
“Getting treatment for hair loss in its early stages can help minimize overall hair loss and increase treatment’s efficacy,” says Dr. Green. “During a hair loss consultation, a doctor can extensively note your family and medical history and perform a physical evaluation of the hair and scalp. Bloodwork may be taken and sent to the lab to determine if any abnormalities are contributing to the hair loss. Additionally, a hair sample or a scalp biopsy may be taken to further examine the underlying causes of the hair loss.”
How do I apply vitamin C to my hair?
How are you all doing? I am doing good and hope everything is great at your end. Today the weather is really good here in Mumbai as the monsoon days have finally arrived. 🙂 Coming to this article, today we would be talking about the benefits of Vitamin C serum for your skin and hair. Vitamin C is an important nutrient for a glowing, flawless and radiant skin. And, it is required for optimum hair growth too. So let’s read on to know more about the benefits of Vitamin C.
Skin and Hair Benefits of Vitamin C Serum
Protects your skin from sun damage
Vitamin C keeps your skin protected from the sun and its damaging effects. Vitamin C keeps your skin protected from free radicals also, which may harm your skin and make it age faster. Due to the high amounts of antioxidants, Vitamin C promotes clear and radiant skin. Hence, it is excellent for tanned skin.
Keeps the signs of aging at bay
Vitamin C serum can keep your skin forever young. Vitamin C contains a high amount of antioxidants which help to get rid of wrinkles, fine lines and other aging spots. It also prevents dryness caused due to aging. Massage your Vitamin C serum and keep it overnight to get the best results on your aging or mature skin.
Treats under eye circles
woman applying eye cream on dark circles
Vitamin C serum prevents dark circles, too. Vitamin C promotes even tone skin and also heals puffiness or eye bags around the eyes. So invest in a good Vitamin C eye serum if you’ve been dealing with dark circles.
Promotes younger skin
A good Vitamin C serum can promote younger and glowing skin. It fades away the signs of aging and tightens the skin too. Application of Vitamin C serum promotes collagen on the skin, thus keeping your skin younger and beautiful. It is a great skin care must-have for bright skin, too.
Reduces skin inflammation
Regular application of Vitamin C reduces skin inflammation easily. This serum is good for people who often wake up with inflamed or slightly red skin. Massage a few drops of Vitamin C serum at night and wake up with gorgeous skin.
Improves hair growth
long and thick beautiful hair
Vitamin C serum is not only beneficial for skin, it is equally good for your hair also. Vitamin C contains antioxidants, which kill free radicals that cause dry, weak and brittle hair. Generally, Vitamin C deficiency may lead to dry and brittle hair. In order to use Vitamin C serum on your hair, take half a cup of yogurt and add 5-8 spoons of Vitamin C serum to it. Mix both the ingredients well and apply on your hair as a mask. Wash off with cold water.
Treats dandruff problem
Dandruff is generally caused after the pores get clogged. This serum helps kill the bacteria and also keeps dandruff away. Take some Vitamin C serum and apply on the scalp directly. Massage your scalp and leave the serum on overnight. Wash off with cold water. Due to the antiviral properties, Vitamin C serum can treat dandruff effectively.
Promotes thick hair
By improving blood circulation in the body, Vitamin C strengthens the hair and also repairs damaged hair follicles. Regular use of Vitamin C promotes younger, thicker and stronger hair. Apply some Vitamin C on your scalp, massage a little and wash it off after some time to get the best results.
Prevents greying of hair
woman looking into the mirror for grey hair
Vitamin C not only treats several hair disorders but also prevents premature greying of hair. You can take Vitamin C capsules to treat this problem. Apply some Vitamin C serum directly on the roots and wrap your hair with a warm towel. Rinse off after 3 hours.
Does vitamin C thicken hair?
What vitamins are good for hair growth and thickness? Vitamin B7 (Biotin), Vitamin C and Vitamin B3 (Niacin) are 3 of the most important vitamins for hair. Learn why these are 3 key vitamins that make hair thicker, and what foods or hair growth supplements provide these essential hair vitamins for growth and thickness.
Top Vitamins for Thicker Fuller Hair
Does hair growth have to do with a healthy diet? Do you want to promote fuller, healthier looking hair? Find out which top vitamins promote healthy and fuller tresses!
1. Biotin (Vitamin B7)
Eggs have biotin
Biotin is one of the best vitamins for hair thickness. Vitamin B7, also known as vitamin H, enables the body to metabolize fats and carbs, and helps the body convert the amino acids in protein into sugar for energy. Because it helps break down proteins, Biotin is critical the strengthening the structure of hair and nails. If you do not get enough Biotin, your hair and nails will be drier and more brittle, you may have thinning and discoloration of the hair. A Biotin-rich diet improves the strength and elasticity of the cortex, the thickest layer of the hair shaft, protecting against hair damage and breakage from sun, chlorine, overstyling, heat styling and other environmental factors. Foods such as eggs and nuts contain some Biotin but another good source of this hair thickening vitamin is clinically proven Viviscal hair growth supplement.*
2. Vitamin C
orange juice has vitamin C for hair growth
Orange juice has vitamin C
This antioxidant that helps the body absorb more Iron into the blood, making it one of the most powerful vitamins for hair thickness. Hair loss is a common symptom of Iron deficiency (anemia), so boosting Vitamin C in your diet helps promote hair growth. Vitamin C is also of the top vitamins for thicker fuller hair because it’s critical for the body’s production of collagen, an essential ingredient in the hair structure. Foods such as red bell peppers, dark leafy greens, tomatoes and citrus fruits are rich in Vitamin C. To ensure you are getting Vitamin C as well as complete vitamins for thick hair growth, take a clinically researched and drug free hair growth supplement for men or for women.
Viviscal Hair Growth Supplements
3. Niacin (Vitamin B3)
peanuts have niacin for hair growth
Peanuts have niacin
Niacin is another critical B vitamin that helps metabolize sugars and carbs to provide energy in the body. Niacin should be at the top of the list of anyone searching for how to get fuller hair. Niacin helps repairs DNA and helps maintain the healthy cells, including those that make up hair follicles, helping to repair damaged hair and promote hair growth. Healthy, nourished hair has less hair shedding, hair breakage and hair loss. To get more Niacin in your diet, eat more dairy products, marine proteins, lean meats and legumes. Or take a supplement with complete hair vitamins for growth and thickness.
It Takes More Than Vitamins for Thicker Fuller Hair
Take these top thicker hair vitamins will help you get to your thicker fuller hair and less hair shedding in no time. But healthy hair is more than just hair vitamins. Healthy hair growth depends on a scientifically formulated combination of vitamins, minerals (including Zinc and Iron) and other nutrients such as Millet Seed Extract and marine extracts. Clinical trials show that a hair growth supplement containing marine extracts plus vitamins and minerals effectively increases the number of hairs and the thickness of hairs over 3-6 months of consistent use. So read up on the best vitamins for thicker fuller hair and take your Viviscal vitamin supplements. You’ll have thick bombshell hair in no time.
Does vitamin C cause hairloss?
People commonly inquire about vitamin and mineral supplementation and diet as a means to prevent or manage dermatological diseases and, in particular, hair loss. Answering these queries is frequently challenging, given the enormous and conflicting evidence that exists on this subject. There are several reasons to suspect a role for micronutrients in non-scarring alopecia. Micronutrients are major elements in the normal hair follicle cycle, playing a role in cellular turnover, a frequent occurrence in the matrix cells in the follicle bulb that are rapidly dividing. Management of alopecia is an essential aspect of clinical dermatology given the prevalence of hair loss and its significant impact on patients’ quality of life. The role of nutrition and diet in treating hair loss represents a dynamic and growing area of inquiry. In this review we summarize the role of vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin E, iron, selenium, and zinc, in non-scarring alopecia. A broad literature search of PubMed and Google Scholar was performed in July 2018 to compile published articles that study the relationship between vitamins and minerals, and hair loss. Micronutrients such as vitamins and minerals play an important, but not entirely clear role in normal hair follicle development and immune cell function. Deficiency of such micronutrients may represent a modifiable risk factor associated with the development, prevention, and treatment of alopecia. Given the role of vitamins and minerals in the hair cycle and immune defense mechanism, large double-blind placebo-controlled trials are required to determine the effect of specific micronutrient supplementation on hair growth in those with both micronutrient deficiency and non-scarring alopecia to establish any association between hair loss and such micronutrient deficiency.
ONLY 1 INGREDIENT AND YOUR HAIR WILL GROW LIKE CRAZY! USE ONCE A WEEK FOR MASSIVE HAIR GROWTH
Plain Language Summary: Plain language summary available for this article.
Keywords: Alopecia, Biotin, Ferritin, Folic acid, Hair loss, Vitamin A, Vitamin B, Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Zinc
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Plain Language Summary
Hair loss is a common problem that may be improved with vitamin and mineral supplementation. Vitamins and minerals are important for normal cell growth and function and may contribute to hair loss when they are deficient. While supplementation is relatively affordable and easily accessible, it is important to know which vitamins and minerals are helpful in treating hair loss.
Androgenetic alopecia (AGA), telogen effluvium (TE) are two common types of hair loss. Studies show that supplementing the diet with low levels of vitamin D can improve symptoms of these diseases. If a patient with AGA or TE has low iron levels (more commonly seen in females), supplementation is also recommended. These iron-deficient patients should also ensure their vitamin C intake is appropriate. At the present time there is insufficient data to recommend zinc, riboflavin, folic acid, or vitamin B12 supplementation in cases of deficiency. Neither vitamin E or biotin supplementation are supported by the literature for treating AGA or TE; in addition, biotin supplementation can also lead to dangerous false laboratory results. Studies show that too much vitamin A can contribute to hair loss, as can too much selenium, although more studies are needed to establish the latter relationship.
Alopecia areata (AA) occurs when the immune system attacks the hair follicle. Studies have shown a relationship between AA and low vitamin D levels. Vitamin D should be supplemented if levels are low. However, more studies are needed to determine the effect of iron and zinc supplementation on AA patients. There is currently not enough data to recommend supplementation of folate or B12. Biotin supplementation is not supported by available data for the treatment of AA. It is unclear if selenium plays a role in this disease; therefore, supplementation with this mineral is not recommended.
Iron, vitamin D, folate, vitamin B12, and selenium are vitamins and minerals that may be involved in hair graying/whitening during childhood or early adulthood. Supplementing these deficient micronutrients can improve premature graying.
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Introduction
People commonly inquire about vitamin and mineral supplementation and diet as a means to prevent or manage dermatological diseases and, in particular, hair loss. Answering these queries is frequently challenging, given the enormous and conflicting body of evidence that exists on this subject. The latest findings promote new evidence-based recommendations for the prevention and treatment of atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, acne, and skin cancer and have highlighted the requirement for ongoing research studies [1, 2].
The human scalp contains approximately 100,000 hair follicles. Of these, 90% are in the anagen phase, where there is no alopecia, requiring essential elements, such as proteins, vitamins, and minerals, to efficiently produce healthy hair [3, 4]. Micronutrients, including vitamins and trace minerals, are therefore crucial components of our diet [5]. According to Stewart and Gutherie [6], in 1497 Vasco de Gamma recorded the deaths of 100 of his 160 sailors due to scurvy and 300 years later James Lind linked scurvy with vitamin C deficiency, noting skin hemorrhage and hair loss [6]. In protein-energy malnutrition, skin and hair changes are prominent, as seen, for example in children with kwashiorkor, marasmus, and marasmic-kwashiorkor conditions [7]. A severe reduction in carbohydrate intake results in hair loss [8].
Management of alopecia is an essential aspect of clinical dermatology given the prevalence of hair loss and its significant impact on patients’ quality of life. Androgenetic alopecia (AGA), telogen effluvium (TE), and alopecia areata (AA) represent the three most common types of non-scarring alopecia [9]. There are several reasons to suspect a role for micronutrients in non-scarring alopecia. The most noteworthy of these is that micronutrients are major elements in the normal hair follicle cycle, playing a role in the cellular turnover of the matrix cells in the follicle bulb that are rapidly dividing [10].
The role of nutrition and diet in treating hair loss represents a dynamic and growing area of inquiry. In this review we summarize the role of vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin E, iron, selenium, and zinc, in non-scarring alopecia.
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Methods
We performed a broad literature search of PubMed and Google Scholar in July 2018 to compile published articles that study the relationship between vitamins and minerals, and hair loss. The search terms included “hair loss,” “alopecia,” “vitamin A,” “vitamin B,” “vitamin C,” “vitamin D,” “vitamin E,” “iron,” “ferritin,” “biotin,” “zinc,” “selenium,” “folic acid,” “telogen effluvium,” “alopecia areata,” “androgenetic alopecia,” “female pattern hair loss,” “male pattern hair loss,” and “premature hair graying.” Only published articles on human subjects that were written in English were selected. After three authors had independently screened titles and abstracts for relevance and had thoroughly examined the clinical results, 125 articles were selected to be included in this review. This article is based on previously conducted studies and does not contain any studies with human participants or animals performed by any of the authors.
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Vitamin A
Vitamin A represents a group of fat-soluble retinoids that includes retinol, retinal, and retinyl esters [11, 12]. This vitamin serves many roles in the body: it is critical for vision, involved in immune function, and is necessary for cellular growth and differentiation [13]. Vitamin A exists in the diet as preformed vitamin A (from animal sources) and as provitamin A carotenoids (sourced from plants). Both sources of vitamin A must be metabolized intracellularly to their active forms (retinal and retinoic acid). The majority of vitamin A is stored in the liver as retinyl esters. When measuring retinol and carotenoid levels, plasma levels are typically sufficient for determining adequacy. A plasma retinol concentration of < 0.70 μmol/L signifies vitamin A inadequacy [13].
In most cases, a balanced diet will supply a healthy amount of vitamin A [14]. The recommended dietary allowance of vitamin A for adults aged ≥ 19 years is 1300 mcg/day (4300 IU [international units]) for U.S. populations. While there is no upper intake level for provitamin A carotenoids, ingestion of very high levels of preformed vitamin A can be toxic. For adults aged ≥ 19 years, the tolerable upper intake level of preformed vitamin A is 10,000 IU [13]. It is therefore important to consider what form of vitamin A is contained in supplements (provitamin A carotenoids or preformed vitamin A) and in what proportion.
As a general rule, consuming too much or over-supplementing vitamin A can cause hair loss [15, 16]. Typically, fat-soluble vitamin A is stored in the liver where its dispersal is tightly regulated by anabolic and catabolic reactions between the inactive and active metabolite. When levels of vitamin A are too high, the capacity of the transport system is exceeded and vitamin A spills over into the circulation [17]. Maintaining homeostasis—and by extension the proper concentration of active metabolite—is important for healthy hair [18].
In one study with the aim to determine the effects of isotretinoin on acne vulgaris in the skin, special care was taken to evaluate changes in the hair and hair growth. Thirty patients were evaluated over a 4- to 7-month treatment period, with examinations carried out using a FotoFinder dermoscope (FotoFinder Systems, Inc., Columbia, MD, USA) with TrichoScan® Professional software. Consistent with other findings, the authors reported a decrease in hair count, density, and percentage of anagen hairs [19].
In a case documented in 1979, a 28-year-old woman undergoing renal dialysis noticed sudden hair loss. Further investigation revealed that she had been taking a daily vitamin A supplement (5000 IU) and that her vitamin A serum levels were well above normal (140 μg/dL). Gentle traction yielded four to five hairs, all of which were in the telogen phase. One month after termination of vitamin A supplementation, hair loss was no longer a problem. The authors concluded that signs of hypervitaminosis A were misinterpreted as symptoms of chronic renal failure. The authors also highlighted the possible “insidious” effects of exogenous vitamin A on dialysis patients [20].
Consumption of vitamin A exceeding the recommended daily limit of approximately 10,000 IU a day can lead to vitamin A toxicity. In a case report, a 60-year-old male who had been taking excess vitamin A supplements experienced non-scarring fronto-central alopecia as well as decreased pubic and axillary hair. The patient also reported dystrophic nail changes and an erythematous rash. Taken together, these changes were concurrent with drug toxicity that aligned with the patient’s over-consumption of vitamin A [21].
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Vitamin B
The vitamin B complex includes eight water-soluble vitamin substances—thiamine (B1), riboflavin (B2), niacin (B3), pantothenic acid (B5), vitamin B6, biotin (B7), folate, and vitamin B12—that aid in cell metabolism. The recommended daily allowances of these vitamins can be reached by eating a balanced diet, with the exception of biotin, which is the only B vitamin produced by the body. In healthy individuals biotin does not need to be supplemented [14]. Only riboflavin, biotin, folate, and vitamin B12 deficiencies have been associated with hair loss.
Vitamin B2 (riboflavin) is a component of two important coenzymes: flavin mononucleotide (FMN) and flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD) [22]. FMN and FAD represent 90% of dietary riboflavin, and both play roles in cellular development and function, metabolism of fats, and energy production [23]. The body stores only small amounts of riboflavin, in the liver, heart, and kidneys. Riboflavin deficiency—while extremely rare in the USA—can cause hair loss [24].
Vitamin B7 (biotin or vitamin H) is a cofactor for five carboxylases that catalyze steps in fatty acid, glucose, and amino acid metabolism. Biotin also plays roles in histone modification, cell signaling, and gene regulation [25]. Most dietary biotin is found in protein. Dietary protein must be broken down into free biotin, which is then stored in the small intestine and liver. An adequate intake of biotin for adults is 30 mcg/day in U.S. populations. The average dietary intake of biotin in Western countries is adequate, and biotin deficiency is rare. Severe biotin deficiency in healthy individuals eating a normal diet has never been reported [26, 27]. While there is no upper limit for biotin intake—as there is no evidence for biotin toxicity—high biotin intake can cause falsely high or falsely low laboratory test results [28]. Many supplements for hair, skin, and nails far exceed the recommended daily intake of biotin [28].
The presence of biotin can in fact interfere with tests that use biotin–streptavidin technology. The interaction between biotin and streptavidin is used as the basis for many biotin-based immunoassays, and these immunoassays are vulnerable to interference when they are used to analyze a sample that contains biotin. Exogenous biotin in the sample competes with biotinylated reagents for the binding sites on streptavidin reagents, creating false positive or false negative results [29]. Biotin interference in biotin–streptavidin immunoassays have been described in patient samples for thyroid-stimulating hormone, free tri-iodothyronine (FT3), free thyroxine (FT4), parathyroid hormone, estradiol, testosterone, progesterone, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, vitamin B12, prostate-specific antigen, luteinizing hormone, and follicle-stimulating hormone. Other non-hormonal tests include cardiac and tumor markers, infectious disease serologies, biomarkers of anemia and autoimmune diseases, and concentrations of immunosuppressive drugs [29–32].
Furthermore, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, biotin interference (from supplemental biotin) caused a falsely low result in a troponin test that led to a missed diagnosis of a heart attack and a patient’s death [28]. In addition, a recent study showed that some human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) devices are subject to biotin interference in individuals taking dietary biotin supplements. Therefore, clinicians and laboratory technicians need to be aware of this potential interference with qualitative urine hCG tests and should suggest quantitative serum hCG measurement. The latter is not subject to biotin interference [33].
Biotin deficiency can be genetic or acquired. Genetic causes of biotin deficiency can be either neonatal or infantile. The neonatal type is a life-threatening condition manifested during the first 6 weeks of life, and it is due to a holocarboxylase enzyme deficiency. It is usually manifested with severe dermatitis and alopecia, where there is loss of vellus and terminal hair on the scalp; eyebrows, eyelashes, and lanugo hair can also be absent. The infantile form of biotin deficiency occurs after 3 months of delivery and is due to a lack of the enzyme called biotinidase. In this form, hair of the scalp, eyebrows, and eyelashes is sparse or totally absent [34].
Acquired biotin deficiency can be due to increased raw egg consumption, where avidin particles attach to biotin and inhibit its absorption into the intestinal gut. In cooked eggs the avidin particles are destroyed [35]. Other causes of acquired biotin deficiency include states of malabsorption, alcoholism, pregnancy, prolonged use of antibiotics that interrupt normal flora, medications such as valproic acid, and isotretinoin intake. The aforementioned medications interfere with biotinidase activity [34]. Evidence suggests that 50% of pregnant women are deficient in biotin [36].
While signs of biotin deficiency include hair loss, skin rashes, and brittle nails, the efficacy of biotin in supplements for hair, skin, and nails as a means to remedy these conditions is not supported in large-scale studies [25, 26]. In fact, only case reports have been used to justify the use of biotin supplements for hair growth. These case reports were in children and found that 3–5 mg biotin daily could improve hair health after 3–4 months in children with uncombable hair syndrome [37, 38].
A recent review article evaluating biotin and its effect on human hair found 18 reported cases of biotin use on hair and nail. In ten of these 18 cases there was a genetic cause of biotin deficiency; the remaining eight patients had alopecia that was improved after they had taken biotin supplementation. There were three cases of uncombable hair syndrome, three cases of brittle nail syndrome, one case of alopecia due to valproic acid intake, and one case of an infant on a biotin-free dietary supplement. All of these 18 patients had underlying causes of biotin deficiency and, once treated with biotin supplement, showed clinical improvement in a variable time period [35].
Researchers in another study investigated the serum biotin level in 541 women participants complaining of hair shedding (age range 9–92 years). Low biotin levels (< 100 ng/L) were found in 38% of these subjects. Of this 38% with biotin deficiency, 11% were found to have an acquired cause of biotin deficiency, such as gastrointestinal disease, valproic acid, isotretinoin, and antibiotic use, and 35% were found to have associated underlying seborrheic dermatitis. These results suggest a multifactorial cause of hair loss [39].
A case–control study was conducted on 52 Indian subjects aged < 20 years with premature canities (graying of the hair), with a matched control for each patient. The authors assessed and compared biotin, folic acid and vitamin B12 levels in both groups. The results showed a deficiency of vitamin B12 and folic acid in the patients evaluated and lower levels of biotin without any obvious biotin deficiency in the cases [40].
Folate is another water-soluble B vitamin and includes naturally occurring food folate and folic acid (fully oxidized monoglutamate). Folate is a coenzyme in the synthesis of nucleic acids and in amino acid metabolism. It exists in the plasma as 5-methyl-tetrahydrofolate, while about half of the total body content exists in the liver [22, 41]. The recommended dietary allowance of food folate is 400 mcg daily for adults, which is supported by required fortification of some foods in the USA [22]. The tolerable upper intake level of folate is 1000 mcg [42]. While most people in the USA ingest adequate amounts of folate, certain groups are at risk for deficiency (usually in association with poor diet, alcoholism, or a malabsorptive disorder). Folate deficiency can cause hair, skin, and nail changes [22].
Vitamin B12 is necessary for DNA synthesis, neurological function, and red blood cell formation [22]. The active forms of B12 are called methylcobalamin and 5-deoxyadenosylcobalamin. Vitamin B12 is a cofactor for methionine synthase and thereby affects the synthesis of nearly 100 substrates including DNA, RNA, and proteins [22]. The recommended dietary allowance of vitamin B12 is 2.4 mcg for adult U.S. populations. There is no established upper limit for vitamin B12 intake, as it has a low potential for toxicity [22].
The role of folate and vitamin B12 in nucleic acid production suggest that they might play a role in the highly proliferative hair follicle [43]. However, few studies to date have addressed the relationship between B vitamins and hair loss. Turkish authors investigated folate level in 43 patients with AA and 36 healthy controls and found no significant differences in serum folate and vitamin B12 levels between the AA subjects and the healthy controls [44]. Also, the authors found that serum levels did not vary with duration or activity of the disease [44]. In another study conducted in Turkey 75 subjects with AA and 54 controls were enrolled. Blood samples were taken to investigate the serum folic acid and vitamin B12 levels. The results were similar to those reported by the authors of the previous Turkish study [44], with the authors finding no significant differences in vitamin B12 and folate levels between affected and healthy patients [45].
A study including 29 patients with AA that involved > 20% of the scalp showed that mean red blood cell folate concentrations were significantly lower in the patient group than in controls and significantly lower in patients with alopecia totalis/alopecia universalis than in patients with patchy hair loss [46]. Of interest, a genetic study including 136 Turkish patients with AA and 130 healthy controls found that the affected patients had a higher prevalence of mutations in the methylene-tetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene [47]. This gene regulates folate metabolism, influences nucleic acid synthesis and DNA methylation, and is associated with other autoimmune disorders. These results suggest that mutations in MTHFR might impact the risk of AA in the Turkish population. However, there was no difference between serum levels of folate or vitamin B12 in affected patients and controls [47].
A retrospective cross-sectional study evaluated folate and vitamin B12 levels in 115 patients with TE (acute and chronic). The results showed that 2.6% of subjects had vitamin B12 deficiency but none had folate deficiency. the lack of a control group is a major limitation of this study [48]. The authors of a case–control study attempted to determine the prevalence of trichodynia in 91 patients with diffuse hair loss, including those with AGA and TE. These researchers found no significant difference in folate and vitamin B12 levels between patients with hair loss and control patients [35]. Ramsay et al. reported a reduction in vitamin B12 levels in females with AGA treated with ethinyl estradiol and cyproterone acetate (Diane/Dianette and Androcur). This reduced vitamin B12 level resulted in vitamin B12-related anxiety, causing some patient to stop treatment. However, a daily 200 µg vitamin B12 supplement corrected the reduced B12 concentrations. Interestingly, the reduction in vitamin B12 levels had no adverse effects on hair shedding or hair growth [49].
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Vitamin C
Vitamin C, or ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin derived from glucose metabolism. It is a potent antioxidant preventing the oxidation of low-density lipoproteins and free radicals damage. It also acts as a reducing mediator necessary for collagen fiber synthesis through hydroxylation of lysine and proline. Vitamin C plays an essential role in the intestinal absorption of iron due to its chelating and reducing effect, assisting iron mobilization and intestinal absorption [50]. Therefore, vitamin C intake is important in patients with hair loss associated with iron deficiency.
Humans are naturally deficient in an enzyme called l-gulonolactone oxidase that is required for vitamin C synthesis, and should therefore take vitamin C through their diet. Citrus fruits, potatoes, tomatoes, green peppers, and cabbages have particularly high concentrations of vitamin C [51]. Although vitamin C deficiency is typically associated to body hair abnormalities [52], there are no data correlating vitamin C levels and hair loss.
How I Stopped my Hair Loss - MASSIVE Hair Growth Update + Tips for Hair Growth
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Vitamin D
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin synthesized in epidermal keratinocytes [53]. Vitamin D obtained from the diet or synthesis in skin is inactive and needs to be activated enzymatically. Serum levels are primarily maintained through the UVB-mediated conversion of 7-dehydrocholesterol in the skin to cholecalciferol, which is hydroxylated in the liver and kidney to the active form of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D [1,25(OH)2D] [54, 55]. There is strong evidence that vitamin D exerts an anti-inflammatory and immunoregulatory effect, in addition to its important role in maintaining adequate serum levels of calcium and phosphorus [54, 56]. The mechanisms underlying the role of vitamin D in autoimmunity are not fully understood [54, 55]. Low vitamin D levels have been reported in several autoimmune diseases [54, 55, 57–60].
Vitamin D modulates growth and differentiation of keratinocytes through binding to the nuclear vitamin D receptor (VDR). Murine hair follicle keratinocytes are immunoreactive for VDR, showing their highest activity in the anagen stage [61]. The role of vitamin D in the hair follicle is evidenced by hair loss in patients with vitamin D-dependent rickets type II. These patients have mutations in the VDR gene, resulting in vitamin D resistance and sparse body hair, frequently involving the total scalp and body alopecia [62–64]. In addition, Forghani et al. identified novel nonsense mutations in the VDR gene in two patients that resulted in hereditary vitamin D-resistant rickets and alopecia [65].
Vitamin D and AA
Published data on AA suggest that vitamin D, due to its immunomodulatory effect, may be involved in AA [66, 67]. Lee et al. conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies on the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency and/or serum vitamin D levels and AA [68]. These authors analyzed a total of 14 studies that involved 1255 patients with AA and 784 control patients without AA. The mean serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] level in patients with AA was significantly lower than that in the non-AA control group, by 8.52 ng/dL (95% confidence interval − 11.53 to − 5.50 ng/dL). Vitamin D deficiency was also highly prevalent in patients with AA, leading the authors to suggest that the vitamin D level has to be measured in patients with AA. These results also suggest that vitamin D supplements or topical vitamin D analogues should be considered for patients with AA and vitamin D deficiency. However, the meta-analysis did not find any clear correlations between extent of hair loss and serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D level [68].
Thompson et al. evaluated the association between AA and vitamin D in a prospective study. Survey data encompassing lifestyle and medical history from 55,929 women in the Nurses’ Health Study were investigated. The authors found that there was no significant association between dietary, supplemental, or total vitamin D intake and risk of developing AA [69].
More recently, a cross-sectional study conducted by Gade et al. sought to assess serum vitamin D levels in patients with AA as compared to healthy controls, and to further identify the association between vitamin D levels and disease severity in patients with AA. The study included 45 adult patients with AA and 45 control subjects. Serum vitamin D was estimated using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits. The severity of AA was determined using the Severity of Alopecia Tool (SALT) score. The mean vitamin D level was found to be significantly lower in patients with AA (17.86 ± SD 5.83 ng/mL) than in the healthy controls (30.65 ± SD 6.21 ng/mL) (p = 0.0001). The level of vitamin D showed a significant inverse correlation with disease severity (p = 0.001) [70].
Dorach et al. conducted a prospective study to correlate serum vitamin D levels with the severity, pattern, and duration of AA and with the density of vitamin D receptor (VDR) expression over hair follicles in patients with AA. These authors evaluated 30 subjects with AA and 30 healthy controls with a mean age of 28.9 ± 9.96 and 31.17 ± 9.43 years, respectively. Of the 30 patients, 96.7% were vitamin D deficient (< 20 ng/mL), compared to 73.3% of the 30 healthy controls (p = 0.001). Serum vitamin D levels negatively correlated with the severity of the disease and duration of disease; however, vitamin D did not correlate with the pattern of AA and VDR expression in tissue samples. VDR expression was reduced in all patients and was normal in controls. There was an inverse correlation of VDR with the presence of inflammation, as assessed in histology studies (p = 0.02) [71].
Female Pattern Hair Loss and TE
Data on vitamin D in female pattern hair loss (FPHL) and TE contradict data derived from studies indicating that women with FPHL or TE have lower levels of vitamin D than controls, and studies showing no correlation or even opposite results [72–76]. To elucidate the role of vitamin D in FPHL and TE, additional large-scale trials are necessary [77].
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Vitamin E
Immune cells are extremely sensitive to oxidative damage. They also produce reactive oxygen species as part of the immune defense mechanism, which can induce a lipid peroxidation reaction. Antioxidant supplementation fundamentally reverses several age-associated immune deficiencies, leading to increased numbers of total lymphocytes and T-cell subsets, elevated levels of interleukin-2, increased natural killer cell activity, enhanced antibody response to antigen stimulation, improved mitogen responsiveness, decreased prostaglandin synthesis, and decreased lipid peroxidation [78].
Several clinical studies have implicated oxidant/antioxidant discrepancy in patients with AA, which is a disease dependent on autoimmunity, genetic predisposition, and emotional and environmental stress. These studies have been reviewed, with most reviewers reporting increased levels of oxidative stress biomarkers and decreased levels of protective antioxidant enzymes in patients with AA [79].
Vitamin E is involved in the oxidant/antioxidant balance and helps to protect against free-radical damage [80]. Ramadan and colleagues evaluated the serum and tissue vitamin E levels in 15 subjects with AA and found significantly lower levels of vitamin E in patients with AA than in the healthy controls (p < 0.001) [81]. These results were not confirmed by Naziroglu and Kokcam who found no statistical difference in plasma vitamin E levels between patients with AA and healthy controls [80].
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Iron
The most common nutritional deficiency in the world is iron deficiency, which contributes to TE [82, 83]. The serum ferritin (iron-binding protein) level is considered to be a good indicator of total body iron stores and is relied upon as an indicator in hair loss studies [84]. However, serum ferritin levels may be raised in patients with inflammatory, infectious, and neoplastic conditions, and in those with liver disorders.
Iron deficiency is common in women with hair loss [85]. Nevertheless, the association of hair loss and low serum ferritin level has been debated for many years. There is an ongoing discussion of whether low serum ferritin levels ought to be designated as a nutritional deficiency triggering hair loss (mainly TE) [86]. Using serum ferritin levels as a marker for iron storage deficiency, the definition of iron deficiency (but not specifically iron deficiency anemia) in several studies has ranged from a serum ferritin concentration of ≤ 15 to < 70 μg/L [87–92]. A cut-off of 30 μg/L has a sensitivity and specificity in detecting iron deficiency of 92% and 98%, respectively; a cut-off of 41 μg/L has a sensitivity and specificity of 98% [93]. In order to reverse severe hair loss due to TE, some authors recommend maintaining serum ferritin at levels of > 40 ng/dL [94] or 70 ng/dL [82]. There is insufficient evidence on the efficacy of the replacement of iron on the outcome of TE, although some benefits have been achieved in a few controlled studies [95]. Menstruation is the biggest cause of iron deficiency in otherwise healthy premenopausal women. The lower female serum ferritin reference ranges have been questioned due to confounding by widespread iron deficiency in premenopausal females sampled when determining population reference levels [96, 97].
The role of essential amino acids in anemia is well known, but just how amino acids affect iron uptake is the subject of ongoing research. Also, the possible impact of amino acids on hair growth has yet to be elucidated. The bioavailability of l-lysine is restricted primarily to fish, meat, and eggs. Little is known about the influence of l-lysine on iron uptake and utilization. In one study, some of the participating women achieved a modest increase in serum ferritin level after iron supplementation, i.e., supplementation with elemental iron 50 mg twice daily; adding l-lysine (1.5–2 g/day) to their existing iron supplementation regimen resulted in a significant (p < 0.001) increase in the mean serum ferritin concentration [85].
Trost et al. [82] and St. Pierre et al. [93] reviewed several studies that examined the relationship between hair loss and iron deficiency. Almost all of these studies had focused on non-scarring alopecia and addressed women [82, 93]. The authors of most studies suggested that iron deficiency may be related to TE [85, 94, 98–100], AA [94, 101], and AGA [88, 94]—but a few did not [86, 102–104]. Of note, Sinclair’s paper [86] was criticized by Rushton et al. [105] since the study evaluated only five women with TE with a serum ferritin level of < 20 µg/L and presented no data on the final serum ferritin level. According to Rushton et al., the study was too short and did not achieve the increase in ferritin levels which is necessary to treat iron-induced chronic telogen effluvium (CTE) in women with a normal hair density [105].
Olsen and colleagues performed a controlled study on 381 women to determine if iron deficiency may play a role in FPHL or in CTE. Their results showed that iron deficiency is common in females, but not increased in patients with FPHL or CTE as compared with their control participants [106]. This paper was also a source of discussion as Rushton et al. [105] criticized the methodology of the study which may have led to selection bias as a potential significant confounder. According to Rushton and colleagues, the results of the Olsen et al. study instead showed significant differences between premenopausal women with FPHL (p = 0.004) or CTE (p = 0.024) and control subjects [107]. Consequently, Olsen and colleagues published a reply letter stating that the serum ferritin was performed in two different laboratories with same normal reference range. These authors also stated ‘‘we were careful to evaluate difference in the iron status in both premenopausal and postmenopausal women with CTE versus FPHL and in each of these hair loss conditions versus controls at three different level of serum ferritin’’. Olsen and colleagues noted a high percentage of iron deficiency in premenopausal controls versus patients using a cut-off ferritin level of ≤ 15 μg/L; the premenopausal controls however had a lower mean age, which might have affected the results [108].
Gowda et al. conducted a cross-sectional study to evaluate the prevalence of nutritional deficiencies in 100 Indian patients with hair loss. Their results indicate that a relatively higher proportion of participants with TE (20.37%) had iron deficiency compared to those with FPHL (16.67%) and male pattern hair loss (MPHL) (2.94%) (p = 0.069). Furthermore, transferrin saturation and ferritin levels were lower in patients with FPHL (41.67%) and TE (40.74%) than in patients with MPHL (11.76%) [109]. Iron deficiencies were found to be related to gender rather than to type of hair loss.
In contrast to the study of Gowda et al. [109], a study conducted by Deo et al. in India aimed to detect the prevalence of several forms of hair loss in females and to correlate these data with levels of hemoglobin and serum ferritin. This observational study involved 135 subjects, the majority (62.2%) of whom had TE, with the next largest group having FPHL (23.7%). Neither low hemoglobin (< 12 gm %; 73.4%) nor low serum ferritin (< 12 μg/L; 6.7%) levels were found to be statistically significant [110].
In 2017, Thompson et al. reviewed five other studies investigating the relationship between AA and iron [55]. None of these studies supported an association between AA and iron deficiency [27, 44, 111–113].
A study was conducted in India on 35 students aged < 20 years who had premature graying of hair, who were matched with 35 healthy controls. The subjects were investigated for hemoglobin level, total iron binding capacity, and levels of ferritin, calcium, and iron, and vitamin B12 and D3 levels. The authors of the study reported that serum calcium, serum ferritin, and vitamin D3 levels may play a role in premature graying of the hair [114].
In 2008, Du et al. [115] described the role of hepcidin in iron regulation and hair loss in the ‘mask mouse,’ which was reversed with iron supplementation [85]. Hepcidin is a liver-derived protein that restricts enteric iron absorption; this protein is considered the iron-regulating hormone found in all mammals and to be responsible for iron uptake. Several proteins stimulate the expression of the gene encoding hepcidin (HAMP) in response to high levels of iron or infection. However, the mechanism of HAMP suppression during iron depletion is not well understood. Du et al. reported the loss of body hair and development of iron deficiency anemia in the ‘mask mouse’ as a result of a mutation in the TMPRSS6 gene. The protein encoded by TMPRSS6 (matriptase-2) was found to negatively regulate the HAMP gene. In mice, a mutation in TMPRSS6 was associated with failure to downregulate the expression of HAMP and was associated with increased levels of the hepcidin, reduced absorption of dietary iron, and, consequently, iron deficiency. Interestingly, iron supplementation in these mice reversed the iron deficiency and induced hair growth [115].
The role of iron during the hair cycle has not been well studied. In 2006, an investigative study described gene expression specific to the bulge region of the hair follicle [116]. St. Pierre et al. [93] reviewed the literature for the function of genes that may be affected by fluctuating iron levels. The genes CDC2, NDRG1, ALAD, and RRM2 are upregulated in the bulge region and can be regulated by iron. The genes Decorin and DCT are downregulated in the bulge region and can also be regulated by iron. The authors hypothesized that iron deficiency might change the normal progression of the hair cycle. However, whether these six genes play a role in iron-dependent processes in the hair follicle remains to be elucidated. Although not yet proven, there is a prevailing view that hepcidin upregulation diverts iron from the hair follicle to support the essential iron requirements. The 33% of women experiencing CTE in the study of Rushton [85] might well represent this group, which could explain why some women with a serum ferritin below the lower male reference range (≤ 40 µg/L) do not experience any change in hepcidin-induced hair follicle regulation.
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Selenium
Selenium is an essential trace element required for the synthesis of more than 35 proteins. Glutathione peroxidase (antioxidant enzyme) depends on selenium as a co-factor. Selenium deficiency occurs in low-birth-weight infants and in patients requiring total parenteral nutrition (TPN). It can also occur among people living in a location where the soil lacks selenium [34].
Venton et al. described the loss of pigmentation of the hair in four patients receiving TPN without selenium supplementation. The serum and hair selenium levels were 38 ± 11 ng/mL and 0.34 ± 0.13 μg/g, respectively. Hair started to re-pigment after 6–12 months of therapy with intravenous selenium [117]. Similar findings, including alopecia with pseudoalbinism, were found in 6 infants receiving nutritional support. In these six infants, after starting daily selenium therapy (5 μg/kg/day), selenium serum levels returned to the normal range of 5–15 μg/dL, and alopecia and pseudoalbinism improved [118].
A clinical trial in patients with ovarian cancer undergoing chemotherapy showed a significant decrease in hair loss and other gastrointestinal symptoms in patients receiving selenium supplementation, as compared with controls. The authors concluded that ingesting selenium is a supportive element in chemotherapy [119].
The recommended dietary allowance for selenium is 55 μg daily for individuals aged ≥ 14 years in U.S. populations. The availability of selenium in a variety of foods, such as meat, vegetables, and nuts, are sufficient to meet the daily requirement [120]. Selenium ingestion in an amount exceeding 400 μg daily may cause toxicity. Symptoms of acute or chronic selenium toxicity include nausea, vomiting, nail brittleness and discolorations, hair loss, fatigability, irritability, and foul breath odor [120]. An outbreak of selenium toxicity from a liquid dietary supplement that contained 200-fold the labeled concentration of selenium resulted in severe hair loss in most patients [121].
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Zinc
Zinc is an essential trace element, which means that the body cannot generate it on its own; it must be supplied through the diet. The main dietary sources of zinc are fish and meat. Zinc deficiency can occur in patients consuming large amounts of cereal grain (which contains a phytate considered to be chelating agent of zinc), in those with poor meat consumption or TPN, and in infants on milk formula. Other causes of zinc deficiency include anorexia nervosa (secondary to inadequate intake, increased zinc excretion, and malabsorption due to laxative abuse), inflammatory bowel disease, jejunal bypass surgery, and cystic fibrosis. Alcoholism, malignancy, burns, infection, and pregnancy may all cause increased metabolism and excretion of zinc.
Alopecia is a well-known sign of established zinc deficiency with hair regrowth occurring with zinc supplementation [122], [123]. Data correlating zinc levels with TE and AGA are, on the other hand, not homogeneous. A retrospective cross-sectional study of 115 subjects diagnosed with TE (acute and chronic) found that 9.6% of subjects had zinc deficiency [48]. Another study comparing 312 subjects with hair loss (including AA, MPHL, FPHL, and TE) with 32 controls showed low levels of zinc in patients with AA and TE. These authors recommended zinc replacement if levels were < 70 µg/dL [124]. However, this finding was not confirmed by a recent study of 40 patients with CTE, with 30 healthy subjects as controls, with the authors finding no difference in zinc levels between the affected and control patients. [125].
A review article on zinc in patients with AA showed that four of the six case–control studies found low zinc levels in patients with AA as compared to healthy control groups [55]. One of these case–control studies was conducted by Kil et al. and included patients with MPHL, FPHL, and TE. The results of this study showed a strong correlation between zinc deficiency (< 70 µg/dL) and hair loss [124]. Another study found a strong association between zinc deficiency and AA severity and chronicity [126]. However, in contrast to these studies, there are two case–control studies carried out in Iran [111] and Finland [113] that showed no significant correlation between zinc level and AA compared to the controls.
The role of zinc supplementation is also open to debate. In a double-blinded placebo-controlled trial published in 1981, where the investigators administered 220 mg zinc gluconate twice per day for 3 months to AA subjects, there was no improvement of AA after zinc supplementation [127]. On the other hand, another study involving 15 patients with AA who took 50 mg zinc gluconate for 12 weeks showed good results in nine of the 15 subjects [128].
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Role of Micronutrients in Scalp Scaling Conditions
Passi et al. noticed a significant deficiency of serum vitamin E in patients with seborrheic dermatitis (both human immunodeficiency virus [HIV] seropositive or HIV seronegative) (p < 0.001) as compared with a control group [129]. Of note, zinc therapy was found to significantly increase both the size of the sebaceous glands and cell proliferation in the sebaceous glands in an animal study [130].
A possible relationship between vitamin D level and psoriasis, including scalp psoriasis, is controversial. The authors of an observational case–control study investigated 561 subjects, of whom 170 had psoriasis (6 with scalp psoriasis), 51 had autoimmune bullous diseases, and 340 were healthy controls. The 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] blood level in each group was measured and found to be significantly different in all three groups, with psoriatic patients having significantly lower vitamin D levels (21.8 ng/mL) than healthy controls (34.3 ng/mL) (p = 0.0007). The authors of this study concluded that vitamin D level may correlate with psoriasis duration [131].
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Restrictive dietary practice and TE
The matrix cells in the follicle bulb have a very high turnover. A caloric deficiency or deprivation of several elements, including vitamins, minerals, essential fatty acids, and proteins, caused by decreased uptake can lead to hair loss, structural abnormalities, and pigment changes, although the exact mechanism(s) are not well known [132]. Goette et al. described nine patients who developed TE after 2–5 months of starting a vigorous weight reduction program and losing 11.7–24 kg. It was thought that rigorous caloric restriction with subsequent inadequate energy supply of the hair matrix might be the cause for the precipitation of TE of the crash dieter [133]. In addition, a few case reports have been published relating TE with crash diet [134–136].
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Summary
Hair loss is considered to be a common problem in the dermatological community and has a profound negative psychological and emotional impact on patients. Micronutrients, such as vitamins and minerals, play an important, but not entirely clear role in normal hair follicle development and immune cell function. Deficiency of such micronutrients may represent a modifiable risk factor associated with the development, prevention, and treatment of alopecia. These effects are summarized in Table 1.
Table 1
The role of micronutrients in non-scarring alopecia and premature graying of hair
Micronutrients TE/AGA AA Premature hair graying ACP outcome study grading
Vitamin D Study results are conflicting, but most authors agree on supplementing vitamin D in patients with hair loss and vitamin D deficiency
Several studies showed an association between AA and low vitamin D levels
Correction of vitamin D deficiency improves AA outcome and enhances response to treatment
Screening for deficiency and supplementation are recommended Moderate in all studies
Vitamin C Crucial in patients with hair loss associated with iron deficiency Few studies, thereby precluding recommendations Data are not available Very low in AA studies
Vitamin E Data not available Conflicting data, thereby precluding recommendations Data are not available Moderate in AA studies
Iron/Ferritin Most authors agree on iron supplementation in patients with iron or ferritin deficiency and hair loss Iron deficiency reported in female patients, likely coincidental Screening for deficiency and supplementation are recommended Moderate in all studies
Zinc Data are not homogenous and findings are too inconsistent to recommend screening
Most studies revealed low serum levels in AA
Evidence-based information on efficacy of zinc supplementation in AA is lacking
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Data are not available Moderate in TE/AGA and AA studies
Selenium Toxicity can cause hair loss. There are no data to recommend screening No data to provide recommendations Screening for deficiency and supplementation are recommended Low in TE/AGA and premature graying of hair studies
Riboflavin Deficiency can cause hair loss. Data are too scarce to recommend screening Data are not available Data are not available Very low in TE/AGA studies
Biotin
Biotin levels can be low in patients complaining of hair shedding
Efficacy of supplementation not supported by evidence-based trials
Exogenous biotin interferes with some laboratory tests, creating false negative or false positive results
No studies on biotin as monotherapy Data are not available Low and very low in TE/AGA studies
Folic acid/Vitamin B12 Data are not sufficient to recommend screening and supplementation
A few studies suggest that the levels of folate or vitamin B12 might modify progression of AA
Data are scarce for recommending supplementation
Screening for deficiency and supplementation are recommended
-Low in TE/AGA studies
-Moderate in AA and in premature graying of hair studies
Vitamin A
Hypervitaminosis A causes hair loss
Screening is recommended in selected cases
Data are not available Data are not available Low and very low in TE/AGA studies
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AA alopecia areata, AGA androgenetic alopecia, TE telogen effluvium, ACP american college of physicians
Telogen Effluvium/Androgenetic Alopecia
Although a relationship between vitamin D levels and AGA or TE is still being debated, most authors agree in supplementing vitamin D in patients with hair loss and vitamin D deficiency. Vitamin C intake is crucial in patients with hair loss associated with iron deficiency. There are no data to support the role of vitamin E in AGA or TE.
Iron deficiency is common in females with hair loss, and most authors agree in supplementing iron in patients with iron deficiency and/or low ferritin levels. However, there is no consensus on “normal ferritin” levels, and most authors prescribe supplements to the patient when the ferritin level is < 40 ng/dL. l-lysine supplementation is recommended for vegan individuals with iron deficiency.
Data correlating TE and AGA with zinc level are not homogenous, and screening for zinc is not recommended. Selenium toxicity and riboflavin deficiency can cause hair loss. However, comprehensive studies are lacking, which preclude any recommendation for screening of selenium or riboflavin.
Biotin deficiency causes hair loss, but there are no evidence-based data that supplementing biotin promotes hair growth. Moreover, exogenous biotin interferes with some laboratory tests, creating false negative or false positive results. There are a few studies addressing the relationship between hair loss and folic acid or vitamin B12, but the lack of extensive studies precludes any recommendation for vitamin B12 or folate screening or supplementation. Hypervitaminosis A causes hair loss, and data on the effects of isotretinoin in hair loss support this association.
Alopecia Areata
Several studies show an association between AA and low vitamin D levels. Patients should be checked and given supplementation if vitamin D levels are low.
Studies on the role of iron in AA have shown a discrepancy in the results between females and males. There is a need for placebo-controlled clinical trials evaluating iron supplementation in the treatment of AA. Most studies on zinc have revealed lower serum levels in AA patients than in controls. However, double-blind trials investigating zinc supplementation in AA are lacking, and studies on selenium serum level in AA patients are very rare, which precludes any conclusion on the role of selenium in AA.
The authors of a few studies suggest that the levels of folate or vitamin B12 might modify the progression of AA, but data are still too limited to recommend screening or supplementation of B vitamins. Biotin supplementation has been successful in the treatment of brittle nails [137]. There are no studies of biotin as monotherapy for AA.
Premature Hair Graying
Deficiency in a few micronutrients has been implicated in the pigment loss of hair, including ferritin, vitamin D, folate, vitamin B12, and selenium deficiencies. We recommend screening for these vitamins and minerals in patients presenting with premature graying of hair and subsequent supplementation of the deficient micronutrients [114].
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Conclusion
Given the role of vitamins and minerals in normal hair follicle development and in immune cell function, large double-blind placebo-controlled trials are required to determine the effect of micronutrient supplementation on hair growth in those patients with both micronutrient deficiency and non-scarring alopecia to establish any association between hair loss and micronutrient deficiency. Each study conducted to data has its own specific limitation, and the constraint of cost and lack of motivated funders for this research are significant limitations.
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Acknowledgements
We would like to thank Maha Abdulmohsen Alenzi, a dietician from the Armed Forces Hospital in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia who provided insight and expertise that greatly assisted the research.
Funding
No funding or sponsorship was received for this study or publication of this article.
Authorship
All named authors meet the International Committee of Medical Journal Editors (ICMJE) criteria for authorship for this article, take responsibility for the integrity of the work as a whole, and have given their approval for this version to be published.
Disclosures
Antonella Tosti is a consultant for P&G, DS Laboratories, and Monat, and a principal investigator for Incyte, Pfizer, Aclaris, and Nutrifol. Hind M. Almohanna, Azhar A. Ahmed, and John P. Tsatalis have nothing to disclose.
Compliance with Ethics Guidelines
This article is based on previously conducted studies and does not contain any studies with human participants or animals performed by any of the authors.
Data Availability
Data sharing is not applicable to this article as no datasets were generated or analyzed during the current study.
Open Access
This article is distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/), which permits any noncommercial use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided you give appropriate credit to the original author(s) and the source, provide a link to the Creative Commons license, and indicate if changes were made.
Is Vitamin C good for fast hair growth?
Many people view healthy-looking hair as a sign of health or beauty. Like any other part of your body, hair needs a variety of nutrients to be healthy and grow (1Trusted Source).
In fact, many nutritional deficiencies are linked to hair loss.
While factors such as age, genetics and hormones also affect hair growth, optimal nutrient intake is key. Below are 5 vitamins and 3 other nutrients that may be important for hair growth.
1. Vitamin A
All cells need vitamin A for growth. This includes hair, the fastest growing tissue in the human body.
Vitamin A also helps skin glands make an oily substance called sebum. Sebum moisturizes the scalp and helps keep hair healthy (2Trusted Source).
Diets deficient in vitamin A may lead to several problems, including hair loss (3Trusted Source).
While it’s important to get enough vitamin A, you don’t want too much. Studies show that too much vitamin A can also contribute to hair loss (4Trusted Source).
Sweet potatoes, carrots, pumpkins, spinach, and kale are all high in beta-carotene, which is turned into vitamin A.
Vitamin A can also be found in animal products such as milk, eggs, and yogurt. Cod liver oil is a particularly good source.
SUMMARY
Your hair needs vitamin A to stay moisturized and grow. Good sources include sweet potatoes, carrots, spinach, kale, and some animal foods.
2. B vitamins
One of the best known vitamins for hair growth is a B vitamin called biotin. Studies link biotin deficiency with hair loss in humans (5Trusted Source).
Although biotin is used as an alternative hair loss treatment, those who are deficient have the best results. However, deficiency is very rare because it occurs naturally in a wide range of foods. There’s also a lack of data about whether biotin is effective for hair growth in healthy individuals.
Other B vitamins help create red blood cells, which carry oxygen and nutrients to the scalp and hair follicles. These processes are important for hair growth.
You can get B vitamins from many foods, including:
whole grains
almonds
meat
fish
seafood
dark, leafy greens
Additionally, animal foods are the only good sources of vitamin B12. So if you’re following a vegetarian or vegan diet, consider taking a supplement.
BOTTOM LINE
B vitamins help carry oxygen and nutrients to your scalp, which aids in hair growth. Whole grains, meat, seafood, and dark, leafy greens are all good sources of B vitamins.
3. Vitamin C
Free radical damage can block growth and cause your hair to age. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect against the oxidative stress caused by free radicals (6Trusted Source).
In addition, your body needs vitamin C to create a protein known as collagen — an important part of hair structure.
Vitamin C also helps your body absorb iron, a mineral necessary for hair growth.
Strawberries, peppers, guavas, and citrus fruits are all good sources of vitamin C.
SUMMARY
Vitamin C is needed to make collagen and can help prevent hair from aging. Good sources include peppers, citrus fruits, and strawberries.
4. Vitamin D
Low levels of vitamin D are linked to alopecia, a technical term for hair loss (7Trusted Source).
Vitamin D is thought to play a role in hair production, but most research focuses on vitamin D receptors. The actual role of vitamin D in hair growth is unknown.
That said, most people don’t get enough vitamin D. It may still be a good idea to increase your intake.
Your body produces vitamin D through direct contact with the sun’s rays. Good dietary sources of vitamin D include:
fatty fish
cod liver oil
some mushrooms
fortified foods
SUMMARY
Vitamin D’s actual role in hair growth is not understood, but one form of hair loss is linked to deficiencies. You can increase vitamin D levels through sun exposure or by eating certain foods.
5. Vitamin E
Similar to vitamin C, vitamin E is an antioxidant that can help prevent oxidative stress.
In one study, people with hair loss experienced a 34.5% increase in hair growth after supplementing with vitamin E for 8 months (8Trusted Source).
The placebo group had only a 0.1% increase (8Trusted Source).
Sunflower seeds, almonds, spinach, and avocados are all good sources of vitamin E.
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SUMMARY
Vitamin E helps prevent oxidative stress and boost hair growth. Good dietary sources include sunflower seeds, almonds, spinach, and avocados.
6. Iron
Iron helps red blood cells carry oxygen to your cells. This makes it an important mineral for many bodily functions, including hair growth.
Iron deficiency, which causes anemia, is a major cause of hair loss. It’s especially common in women (9Trusted Source, 10Trusted Source, 11Trusted Source, 12Trusted Source).
how long it REALLY takes to grow waistlength natural hair
Foods high in iron include clams, oysters, eggs, red meat, spinach, and lentils.
SUMMARY
Iron deficiency is a major cause of hair loss, especially in women. The best sources of iron include clams, oysters, eggs, red meat, spinach, and lentils.
7. Zinc
Zinc plays an important role in hair tissue growth and repair. It also helps keep the oil glands around the follicles working properly.
Hair loss is a common symptom of zinc deficiency (13Trusted Source, 14Trusted Source). Studies show resolving zinc deficiency with supplementation may reduce deficiency-related hair loss(15Trusted Source, 16Trusted Source).
However, there are some anecdotal reports that supplementing with too high of a dose can also contribute to hair loss.
For this reason, it may be better to get your zinc from whole foods. Foods high in zinc include oysters, beef, spinach, wheat germ, pumpkin seeds, and lentils.
SUMMARY
The mineral zinc can improve hair growth in people who are deficient in it. Good sources include oysters, beef, and pumpkin seeds.
😱DIY vitamin c / orange oil for faster hair growth. Use two to three times a week
8. Protein
Hair is made almost entirely of protein. Consuming enough is important for hair growth.
Animal studies show that protein deficiency may decrease hair growth and even lead to hair loss (17Trusted Source).
However, actual protein deficiency is extremely rare in Western countries.
SUMMARY
Eating enough protein is important for hair growth, although a protein deficiency is rare in Western countries these days.
Still searching for the right vitamins and supplements?
Let us help. We compile evidence-driven reviews and brand comparisons on top vitamins and supplements so you can meet your health goals.
The bottom line
Food is the best source of the vitamins you need for hair growth. However, if you fail to get enough in your diet, supplements may be helpful. According to research, supplements work best in individuals who are already deficient (19Trusted Source).
Furthermore, large doses of vitamins and minerals can be harmful if you aren’t deficient. So work with a doctor to determine if you have a deficiency.
At the end of the day, the best way to get these nutrients is by eating a balanced, real-food–based diet that includes plenty of nutrient-dense foods.
Can vitamin C make your hair grow?
There’s nothing more desirable than having shiny, beautiful, and super soft tresses that can turn heads. But attaining such healthy and gorgeous locks requires effort and choosing the correct hair care products. There are numerous chemical-infused products available in the market to choose from, but nothing beats the magic of natural ingredients and their effect. Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is one such wonderful ingredient that is enriched with antioxidants and assures enhanced natural health and growth of your mane. Dive into this article to know more about using Vitamin C and all that it can do for your tresses.
Table of Contents
Benefits Of Vitamin C For Silky Smooth Hair
Haircare Products Infused With Vitamin C
Benefits Of Vitamin C For Silky Smooth Hair
First off: does vitamin C damage hair? No, if you use vitamin C properly, not only that it does not damage hair, but is known to provide several benefits to improve natural hair health and enhance the nourishment of your hair and scalp. Here are a few of the most important benefits of Vitamin C for your hair:
Improves hair growth: According to several studies, Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is a natural ingredient that effectively boosts collagen production, ensuring enhanced hair growth. According to Rianna Loving, an advocate for wellness and clean beauty brands, “Vitamin C helps in the absorption of iron, which further aids in keeping our hair strong and silky.”
Prevention from oxidative stress: Free radicals can not only block the growth of your hair locks, but also lead to premature greying. As per a study published in the International Journal of Trichology, Vitamin C is packed with powerful antioxidants that work well to prevent the oxidative stress caused by free radicals.
Reverses premature greying: Infused with medicinal properties, Vitamin C is an exceptional ingredient to prevent premature greying of your locks. It also helps in retaining your natural hair color while maintaining its health and nourishment.
Tackles dandruff: Most of us have to deal with flakiness and dandruff, whether occasionally or on a regular basis, irrespective of our hair type. Bacterial overgrowth and fungal infections are the most common causes of dandruff. Packed with antibacterial and antiseptic properties, Vitamin C naturally heals your scalp and helps unclog the hair follicles.
Fights split ends and breakage: Structural damage caused by free radicals leads to the destruction of keratin, a protein that is essential for healthy hair growth, which can cause split ends and hair breakage. Adding products enriched with Vitamin C to your haircare regimen can help you actively fight free radicals and prevent hair damage. You can also take vitamin C tablets to boost collagen production and promote healthy hair growth.
Haircare Products Infused With Vitamin C
Besides acting internally by taking your nutritional supplements and vitamin C tablets, you should know that powerful hair care products infused with the goodness of Vitamin C are a perfect solution to combat the effects of pollution, excess styling, and several other factors affecting the health of your hair. Here’s our top recommendation: a shampoo and conditioner pack that can add that lost vibrancy and shine back to your lifeless mane.
Apple cider vinegar clarifying shampoo and Coconut/Avocado oil conditioner pack
Apple cider vinegar shampoo and Coconut/Avocado oil conditioner
WOW Skin Science combination pack of ACV shampoo and coconut / avocado oil conditioner can be added to your routine, no matter your hair type. Apart from being rich in Vitamin C, the shampoo’s clarifying formula works well to balance the pH level of your scalp fighting several hair care miseries. The strong botanicals present in the formulation naturally replenish and promote the health of your tresses.
After rinsing your hair, apply the nourishing conditioner. Infused with with virgin coconut oil, it promotes enhanced nourishment and moisturization of your locks, being particularly beneficial for dry hair. Rich in oleic acids and monounsaturated fats, avocado oil provides deep hydration to hair strands and keeps them protected against free radical damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does vitamin C thicken hair?
Vitamin C fights free radical damage, thus boosting healthy hair growth and potentially contributing to thickening hair. Check with your doctor if you could benefit from a vitamin C treatment.
2. Can vitamin C cure alopecia?
Vitamin C can work well in certain types of alopecia and other hair disorders by healing and soothing the scalp and strengthening the hair follicles.
3. Does vitamin C remove hair color?
In high concentrations, vitamin C can break down the chemical bonds holding your hair dye together and remove your hair color. However, you should not worry too much about naturally occurring vitamin C in popular ingredients for hair care, such as apple cider vinegar, as they’re only slightly acidic, not nearly enough to strip your hair color and lighten your hair.
Conclusion
Vitamin C deficiencies can not only cause difficulties for the functioning of your body and skin, but also dampen the natural growth and health of your hair. Using hair care products powered by vitamin C, which can actively fight against your hair care woes, can help ensure enhanced growth and leave your hair smooth and healthy.
WOW tip: You might also want to explore using vitamin C for your face to hydrate and energize dull, dry skin for a youthful glow. WOW Skin Science has a whole range of Vitamin C skin care products, from vitamin C face serum to vitamin C face washes, vitamin C skin mist toner and vitamin C enriched body butters.
Korean skincare is known for its innovation and forward-thinking products, leading to it becoming a growing beauty trend around the world. Now, a new hair tonic from Korean brand Vitabrid C¹², claims to be able to treat hair loss with a vitamin C solution.
But can vitamin C really help to regrow hair? And, if so, is applying it directly to the scalp better than ingesting it? We asked Belgravia superintendent pharmacist, Christina Chikaher, for her thoughts on this new product as well as how vitamin C can affect hair growth.
nutrition-juice-kiwi-strawberry-strawberries-vitamin-c-food-health-diet-hair-growthVitamin C and hair growth
Christina explains, “Vitamin C is a water soluble vitamin. The human body cannot manufacture or store it, therefore it must be consumed on a daily basis. In addition to being taken orally via food sources such as oranges, strawberries, kale and bell peppers, or through nutritional support supplements, vitamin C is essential for collagen biosynthesis and is available in a variety of topical creams, lotions and transdermal patches.”
The anti-oxidant is also used in topical cosmetic skincare products for its ‘anti-ageing’ properties and alleged skin brightening effects.
“Vitamin C is needed for a wide range of bodily functions, including wound healing, tissue support, bone health and collagen production. It also offers protection from free radical damage, also known as oxidative stress, which is important where hair loss is concerned,” advises Christina.
Oxidative stress is described by the Department of Medicine at the Sir Jules Thorn Institute in London’s The Middlesex Hospital, as ‘a disturbance in the balance between the production of reactive oxygen species (free radicals) and antioxidant defenses’. Essentially, it is a damaging form of internal stress caused by an excess of free radicals. These free radicals can be formed as a reaction to various lifestyle issues, including physical and emotional stress, excessive alcohol intake, smoking and/or an unbalanced diet, as well as environmental issues such as air pollution.
The reason this is important is because oxidative stress has been linked to premature hair loss in two recent clinical studies.
“Additionally, vitamin C is vital for the absorption of iron. An iron deficiency can cause chronic hair loss from anaemia-related Diffuse Thinning, though an excess of iron can also lead to this same hair loss condition,” notes Christina. “How effective Vitamin C would be in aiding iron absorption as a topical preparation is unclear.”
ChristinaTopical vitamin C as a hair loss treatment
Having looked into the new Korean hair tonic, we asked Christina, pictured, for her opinion on whether this vitamin C ‘hair loss treatment’ could work.
“In principle the theory behind this preparation seems very logical. However, I am always of the belief that if it seems too good to be true then it’s likely to be just that,” she tells us. “Perhaps I would have had more confidence if it was an oral and not a topical preparation as topical vitamin C is usually quite unstable. Because it is unstable and difficult to deliver into the dermis in the optimum dosage, research is constantly being done to find stable compounds of Vitamin C and newer methods of delivery of Vitamin C into the dermis.”
The hair tonic is the brand’s latest beauty product to use the Vitabrid C12 ingredient which was developed by Dr. Jinho Choy, a chemist working at Seoul’s Ewha Womans University. It is also used in skin brightening products and acne treatments. The tonic comprises a powder element which the user mixes in to a liquid spray bottle containing another solution, is sold by high-end department store Barney’s New York in the US, which states on its product information: “Through proprietary biotechnology, vitamin C is mixed with stabilizing zinc, a combination designed to capture the nutrient’s potency and allow it to penetrate the skin and scalp over the course of 12 hours.”
Despite zinc and vitamin C both having beneficial properties for hair health – hence their inclusion in Belgravia’s exclusive range of hair supplements for men and women, Hair Vitalics – Christina is still sceptical as to their topical benefits in relation to treating hair loss.
Cosmetic hair boosters
“This tonic claims stability and increased scalp penetration over 12 hours. It also claims – or rather hopes – that ‘because hair growth is a function of epidermal stem cells, the use of vitamin C may be able to trick the cells into behaving like they did when they were younger’, in order to generate hair from the follicles. However, I cannot find any published scientific research to reliably substantiate these claims.”
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Belgravia Centre Hair Loss Treatment Men Women Hair Growth Hair Care 360px“Also, there is the question as to which hairloss conditions it is meant to benefit as, for example, vitamins cannot treat androgenetic alopecia as they do not address the DHT issue. This is why we included saw palmetto in Belgravia’s Hair Vitalics for Men supplements and the soy isoflavones genistein and daidzen in the Hair Vitalics for Women – because research has shown that these can lower the levels of DHT in the bloodstream.”
In fact, it may be media coverage that is misconstruing the product’s actual purpose – which, thanks to cleverly worded marketing material, is easy to do. Though the brand’s website is still under construction, the available marketing information from vendors clearly states that the hair tonic is a ‘beauty treatment’ – meaning a product designed to cosmetically enhance the look of the hair, not a hair loss treatment, meaning a medical regime used to stabilise hair fall, promote hair growth and prevent baldness.
This sentiment is backed by various claims stating that the product is, in fact, “specifically formulated for intensive care of hair and scalp to promote the look and feel of thicker, fuller hair” and to “diminish the appearance of hair loss”. ‘Promoting the look and feel’ of thicker hair and ‘diminishing the appearance of hair loss’ infers a beauty product that works on a cosmetic level. For instance, a wig or microscopic hair fibres can make the same claims as they can temporarily make the hair appear thicker and reduce the appearance of hair loss. What these types of products do not do – unlike clinically-proven medications – is actually treat hair loss. With this in mind, whilst we do not doubt that this product may be useful to some, we believe it should be considered as a cosmetic concealant, or may possibly fall into the category of hair growth supporting products, rather than be classed – as media reports have done – as any kind of hair loss treatment.
There’s a secret to have long, beautiful and luscious hair and we’re about to uncover it for you. Along with choosing the correct shampoo and conditioner, it is also extremely essential to pay attention to your intake of vitamins.
You heard us, ladies! Piling up on expensive products and getting some of those bizarre beauty treatments done isn’t really the way to go! Just a minor change in your dietary intake can help you go a long way. So, it is time you reassessed your diet to check for certain important vitamins.
Getting hair of a quality like that of Rapunzel’s no longer remains a chimera. The right kind of nutrition can help you get thicker and longer hair.
Here’s everything you need to know about your vitamin intake:
Vitamin A:
Vitamin B
Vitamin C:
Vitamin D:
Vitamin E:
Vitamin A:
Vitamin A:
Why vitamin A?
Vitamin A is responsible for cell growth, which also includes the growth of your hair. It is a powerhouse of antioxidants that helps moisturize your scalp and prevents your hair from getting dry.
Apart from hair growth, it even plays a significant role in giving you thicker, stronger hair.
Plus, vitamin A is responsible for the production of the oily substance sebum which is vital to moisturizing and maintaining a healthy scalp.
Foods that provide vitamin A:
Include carrots, kale, spinach and sweet potatoes in your diet as they are rich in vitamin A. You can also include dairy products such as milk and yoghurt, or even eggs.
Deficiency of vitamin A can result in hair loss as this vitamin is responsible for stimulating hair growth and maintaining the health of your hair. Therefore, a lack of vitamin A can result in significant damage to your hair.
Vitamin B
Vitamin B
If you’ve ever visited a dermatologist or a trichologist, you’ll know that they emphasize strongly on the importance of vitamin B in your diet for healthy hair, especially B12. Vitamin B truly is kind of a big deal.
Along with B12, there is another important form of vitamin B, biotin or B7. Why is biotin so important, you might ask?
Well, your hair is made up of the protein keratin, and biotin plays an eminent role in maintaining and improving your body’s keratin infrastructure. It also helps carry oxygen and nutrients to your scalp, thereby promoting healthy hair growth. Along with giving you longer hair, it makes your hair thicker as well.
B12, on the other hand, improves and strengthens the condition of your hair. Deficiency of the vitamin B12, especially during menopause, leads to considerable hair loss.
And don’t forget niacin, more commonly known as the vitamin B3. Vitamin B3 helps with the growth of healthy hair. B3, or Niacin, is responsible for improving your overall blood circulation and more importantly, for increasing the flow of blood to your scalp, thus providing those essential nutrients to your hair follicles.
Foods that provide B-vitamin:
Nuts, bananas, beef, tuna, whole grains, mushrooms, meat and seafood are some of the foods rich in Vitamin-B.
Lack of biotin can result in you having brittle hair. Opt for small dosages of biotin supplements, with your doctor’s prescription, if you’re found to be really deficient in this vitamin.
Vitamin C:
Vitamin C:
How could we leave vitamin C out of this list? Vitamin C is essential to the absorption of iron which helps in hair growth.
Suffering from the premature greying of hair? Well, vitamin C can come to your rescue.
And the benefits don’t just stop there!
It also plays a major role in collagen production. Collagen is the protein that helps make your hair thicker.
Foods that provide vitamin C:
Citrus fruits such as lemons, strawberries and grapefruit are loaded with vitamin C.
Vitamin D:
Vitamin D:
When you think of vitamin D, you often also think of the sun’s rays! It is never really a bad idea to head outside and scoop up some of that sunlight essential for the production of vitamin D in your body.
If you have a vitamin D deficiency, you are most likely to suffer from alopecia, a severe form of hair loss. The intake of vitamin D enables the body to create new hair follicles, allowing new hair to grow.
Additionally, it also helps with the production of hair. So make sure that you maintain the requisite amount of vitamin D in your dietary intake.
Increasing your dosage of vitamin D during hair loss will certainly help your case. Although the shedding may still last for about as long as 2 months, you’ll soon begin to notice significant hair growth again.
Foods that provide vitamin D:
Egg yolk, fish, soy milk, cereal and cheese are rich in vitamin D.
Vitamin E:
Vitamin E:
Vitamin E is a fat-soluble anti-oxidant that helps build and repair tissues, making it extremely important for hair growth. It also helps reduce cell damage, thereby boosting the growth of your hair. Plus, it combats those free radicals that contribute to the loss of hair.
Studies have linked the consumption of vitamin E to a decrease in hair loss. It also helps repair any damage done to your hair and gives your hair a certain luster.
Just like vitamin C, vitamin E is an antioxidant that helps prevent oxidative stress, thereby reducing hair loss. Plus, vitamin E helps seal the moisture in your hair and prevents your hair from getting dry.
Foods that provide vitamin E:
Sunflower seeds, spinach, almonds and avocados are rich sources of vitamin E. You can also opt for vitamin E supplements if you wish to.
Along with certain foods, there are also certain shampoos that contain vitamin E. You can even choose to apply almond oil onto your hair as it is loaded with vitamin E.
It happened to me this weekend: I looked in the mirror and realized my hair part has gotten significantly wider. Maybe for you, it’s noticing your ponytail getting thinner and thinner. But, we’re not alone: 40 percent of Americans experience hair loss or thinning by the time they reach age 40. And while there are plenty of options lining store shelves that are designed to restore our once young, luscious locks, we may have been looking over one key ingredient that matters: vitamin C.
Vitabrid C¹², a Korean beauty leader, has launched what’s been called an “anti-aging potion for the scalp,” of which vitamin C is the main ingredient, and it’s delivering major results. The Hair Tonic ($80) includes a mixable vitamin C powder (it’s a brand-new form of the vitamin that’s created to sink into the scalp) and an OTC hair tonic to promote collagen production. The powder is poured into the tonic, then shaken, for the final hair-helping cocktail that should be sprayed onto the scalp twice a day.
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After applying the Hair Tonic to her scalp twice a day, this woman noticed significant results in just 90 days.
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According to the brand, vitamin C is “the most definitive and safest substance for boosting collagen synthesis in the scalp” (decreased collagen levels lead to a lessening of stem cells in individual hair follicles), but the vitamin itself is usually unstable, making it nearly impossible to be delivered deep into the scalp with a typical topical product. However, the combination of the powder and hair tonic allows vitamin C to be delivered into the scalp for 12 continuous hours, resulting in fuller, thicker hair.
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“Vitamin C is a terrific antioxidant that has the ability deliver significant anti-aging effects,” says West Palm Beach dermatologist Kenneth Beer, MD. “Because hair growth is a function of epidermal stem cells, the use of vitamin C may be able to trick the cells into behaving like they did when they were younger.” Not many topical hair products include the vitamin yet, but with results like these, it’s easy to predict that brands will soon follow suit.
Vitamin C has long been touted for its beauty benefits from anti-aging properties for younger-looking skin to growing longer, stronger hair and nails.
Are these just marketing claims that the cosmetics industry is using to make you think the products are natural, green, and healthy? Or are there true benefits to applying vitamin C externally to your hair and skin? Perhaps not surprisingly, the answer is sometimes yes, sometimes no.
What are the benefits of vitamin C?
Benefits for skin
Vitamin C is a popular component of many topically applied skin care products, where it has definite observed benefits when used above certain concentrations (5-15%).
Anti-wrinkle
At the surface, it acts as an anti-oxidant, combating damage caused by free radicals created by environmental pollutants and ultraviolet radiation exposure. This can help prevent formation of new wrinkles that occur when free radicals are present on skin.
Increased collagen
Vitamin C has also been shown to penetrate and transfer to epidermal tissue, where it aids in cellular repair, and promotes collagen production. It is beyond the scope of this article to explore all of the mechanisms and variables by which vitamin C benefits skin, but clearly, it does provide some genuine value.
Whether or not it provides benefits to hair is less dependent upon complicated cellular processes, and more dependent upon some basic chemical properties.
Chemical structure
Vitamin C is the common name for ascorbic acid, a small chiral molecule — in other words, one that can occur in two different forms that are non-superimposable mirror images of one another. The type of ascorbic acid found in plants, synthesized in animals and used in cosmetic and food products is the left-handed molecule (levorotatory enantiomer) of ascorbic acid (L-ascorbic acid). For whatever reason, the right-handed version (dextrorotatory) does not occur in nature and the lab-synthesized version offers no benefits over its more readily available isomer.
Benefits for hair
MILD CLEANSER
As with many acids, vitamin C — ascorbic acid — can act as a mild clarifying agent in shampoo and can be effective in helping remove mineral buildup accumulated on the surface of the hair. This improves the ability of the hair to accept moisture, which makes it more soft and supple and more resistant to tangling and breakage.
SHINE ENHANCER
Also, the lower pH of acidic shampoos smoothes and tightens the cuticle surface, rendering the hair more-evenly reflective and shinier.
HUMECTANT
The presence of multiple hydroxyl groups (oxygen-hydrogen, -OH) makes ascorbic acid extremely hygroscopic, meaning it attracts and binds water to itself. For this reason, vitamin C can act as a humectant and effective moisturizer in hair products when used in conditioners, leave-in conditioners and styling products.
ANTI-BREAKAGE
Also, when included as a component in leave-in conditioners and styling products, vitamin C can act as an antioxidant, much in the same manner as in skin creams. Free radicals can cause structural damage to the proteins in hair, which can lead to split ends and breakage.
COLOR RETENTION
They also can react with both natural melanin and synthetic dye molecules resident in the cortex of the hair strands and bleach color from hair, while simultaneously causing physical damage to it. For this reason, free radical scavengers such as vitamin C can be quite useful in color retention and maintaining the health and integrity of hair. Ascorbic acid is water soluble, and is thus not a concern for buildup or accumulation on the surface of hair, even when non-mainstream cleansing methods are employed (low-poo, no-poo).
Oftentimes, vitamin C is used as a preservative or pH adjuster in hair care products and has no significant impact at all on final properties of the product. If it appears as one of the last few ingredients, below what is known as the one-percent line, you can be assured that this is the case.
Does vitamin C make your hair grow?
The marketing materials for some hair care products claim that their vitamin-C containing formula can promote hair growth and repair an unhealthy scalp. While it is certainly true that ascorbic acid is capable of transfer to tissue and cells in specifically formulated skin care products where it can participate in cellular processes, this isn't usually the case in shampoos and conditioners.
The reasons for this are that the pH of hair care products is generally too high for the acid to be active, and the concentration of the ascorbic acid is too low for there to be any benefit. For this reason, most of these types of products will have no significant impact to the scalp or hair growth.
However, it is possible that a formula intended for direct skin application might be of some benefit to the scalp tissue. Whether this would promote hair growth is not certain, but a healthy scalp is in the best position to perform this function. This would probably fall into the category of “it couldn’t hurt to try in moderation.”
Possible side effects
Some users have reported that some vitamin C-based products have felt drying to their hands and hair. This is going to be very dependent upon an individual’s hair and skin type. as well as on the other ingredients in the formulation. It is doubtful that the vitamin C itself leads to dryness, but perhaps if coupled with harsh surfactants, a too-low pH, or insufficient emollients and moisturizers, a product could produce that undesirable tactile feel.
Always trust your own reaction to a product and use what works for you!
Have you used vitamin C for hair growth? If so, what was your experience? Share it with us in the comments below!
Time and time again, we hear experts sing the praises of vitamin C. Maybe the superfood we need to be more concerned about eating is a run of the mill, breakfast juice, or perhaps the staple orange. Given, it’s not as exotic as, say, kale, or chia seeds, but it tastes better. So why is vitamin C so incredibly essential? Well, it’s responsible for creating and maintaining collagen—i.e., the “glue that holds the body together.” From strengthening blood vessels and giving skin its elasticity and strength, Vitamin C is an antioxidant our bodies need. However, because Vitamin C is water-soluble, our bodies don’t store it or accumulate too much of it in our systems, which is why daily intake is highly important. But, in case you’re still not convinced, here’s what getting your C in daily can do for your hair, nails, and skin.
For Hair
Vitamin C is one of the most effective nutrients to help grow and strengthen hair, says Guy Parsons. “Vitamin C helps build collagen, which is highly important for hair growth, but maintaining the strength of hair is just as crucial,” Guy says. “Vitamin C plays a necessary role in absorbing iron, which keeps our locks strong and healthy.” “Women lose iron through blood loss during the menstrual cycle and women tend to eat less red meat which is a great source of iron. Iron is essnetial not just for our hair, but our overall beauty and well being. “When you deplete your iron stores, you can develop anemia and experience fatigue and weakness,” he says. “That certainly won’t help you look and feel vibrant or energized.”
To give your hair a vital dose of Vitamin C,try this for a hair cocktail: blend a pre-boiled, but not fully cooked, sweet potato, a half cup of gooseberries, three strawberries and half of a small red pepper until you get a creamy smooth mixture, then apply to scalp and hair. Leave the mask on for 15-to-25 minutes, then rinse off with warm water. “Vitamin C helps maintain the integrity of our nails by strengthening our skin, connective tissue, bones, and blood vessel walls,” Guy Parsons says. ” Because vitamin C strengthens and helps nails grow, it also prevents hang nails by aiding collagen formation, making this nagging issue a non-issue. Ingesting Vitamin C is the best route for optimal nail health, so be sure to take a supplement or eat citrus fruits often.
For Skin
Vitamin C maintains healthy skin by creating and promoting the expansion of collagen as well as the creation of ligaments and scar tissue,. By slowing the rate of free radicals, it also appears to slow the aging process by keeping wrinkles, dryness and fine lines at bay.
Vitamin C Benefits For Hair:
In order to get a healthy mane, we need to eat healthy food. A healthy diet reflects in our skin and hair. Vitamin C is more than an antioxidant and plays an important role in improving the health of our skin and hair. Vitamin C provides many benefits for the hair.
Improves Hair Growth:
Low intake of Vitamin C may be a root cause for a number of hair-related problems that affect our hair growth. Vitamin C deficiency may result in dry hair and split ends. These conditions are unfavourable for the regular growth of hair. When our body turns food that we consume into glucose for energy production, free radicals are naturally formed. These free radicals damage our hair by making it weak, brittle and thin. These conditions interrupt hair growth. Vitamin C’s antioxidant properties reduce the formation of free radicals and minimises their effect on our body. Having an adequate supply of Vitamin C in our diet is essential for antioxidant protection against free radicals. People who take huge amount of Vitamin C have healthy, strong and thick hair.
Fights Dandruff:
Our hair follicles often get clogged due to dandruff and dry, flaky skin. This can damage the hair follicles if not treated, and also inhibit the hair growth. Vitamin C helps fight the bacteria on the scalp. It wards off dandruff and helps to get rid of the follicles’ debris and encourages the growth of new hair. It also helps with dry and itchy scalps because of its antiviral properties.
Stops Hair Loss:
It is used to reverse adrenal gland fatigue. This is crucial for stopping hair loss and encourages more hair growth since the adrenal glands are the key to maintain proper hormonal balance.
Thicker Hair:
It also helps improve the blood circulation and strengthens and repairs the capillaries too. This is particularly important for getting stronger, thicker hair.
Fights Hair Disorders:
Vitamin C is an essential nutrient for damaged hair and thus, treats and prevents a variety of hair disorders which can damage the hair follicles and affect the normal growth of hair. A diet containing significant levels of Vitamin C can help combat alopecia and baldness in men.
Prevents Greying Of Hair:
Vitamin C not only helps combat hair loss but also helps retain the natural color by preventing the premature aging of the hair.
Vitamins to Thicken Hair
09 MAY, 2021
Having good hair represents good health and vitality. Throughout the ages, hair has been said to symbolize physical strength and virility. Healthy looking hair is said to represent the virtues and properties of a person. Hair has also been seen as a symbol of instinct, and especially female seduction and physical attraction. Healthy hair makes you feel great, and the good news is there are plenty of things you can do to enhance the look and feel of your hair making it thicker and physically better looking.
Do you feel like your hair's a little on the thin side? Is it lacking thickness and vitality? In this post we are going to show you a number of different ways to enhance the thickness of your hair. From self-care routines to purchasing some vitamins to thicken hair to strengthen it from within, allow this to be your guide to long-term thicker hair.
Self-care for Thicker Hair
self care for healthy hair
Have you looked in the mirror, ran your fingers through your hair and felt like it just isn’t what it used to be? Thinning hair can be caused by a number of different things such as;
The natural aging process
Genetics (the unfortunate one)
Poor quality nutrition/lack of vitamins and minerals
The use of poor quality/commercial hair products
Intolerances to chemicals or substances
Certain illnesses
Don't panic, for whatever reason you want your hair to be thicker we have a number of methods to help. Before we get to the vitamins part, we want you to really enhance your chances of saying goodbye to thinning hair so it’s important you partake in self-care for your hair routine first. This involves looking after your hair from the outside first, because we need to be ticking every box here.
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Here’s how to take care of your hair from the outside...
Thicker healthier hair with massage
Massage your scalp - According to certain studies, scalp massage can increase thickness of the har by stretching the cells of hair follicles. This action leads to the follicles producing thicker hair. It's also a possibility that a scalp massage can help dilate blood vessels beneath the skin, therefore encouraging hair growth.
Usage: When washing hair spend at least 3 minutes really massaging your scalp with your fingers until they ache then you know you’ve done enough.
Invest in sulphate & paraben free shampoos - Have you checked your shampoo to see if it contains parabens? They are guilty of causing a number of problems for your hair including drying out and irritating your scalp. They can fade your color, and even contribute to hair loss, they are generally unsafe. Sulfates are usually added to shampoos as they help to remove dirt and dead skin cells from your scalp, but they can also strip your hair of its natural oils, making it dry and brittle leading to thinner hair.
Usage: Ensure you use a good quality (natural is possible) sulphate and paraben free shampoo to achieve hair that is thicker and healthier.
Wash it less - Washing your hair can strip it of its natural oils leading to dry, brittle hair which is susceptible to breaking easily. Hair that breaks becomes thin. In order to get thicker, healthier looking hair wash your hair a lot less if you have been doing it almost every day. It might sound surprising but less really is more when it comes to hair washing.
Usage: Only wash your hair 2-3 times a week
Drying and brushing - After you have washed your hair it’s tempting to blow dry it so it dries faster. Try to allow your hair to dry naturally after a short and gentle towel dry. Blow drying can be harsh on the hair and strip it of moisture and natural oils. It can also cause a lot of hair breakage leading to thinner hair. For thicker hair
Usage: Gently brush your hair and avoid temptation to do it fast and rough. Only blow dry when absolutely necessary.
Olive oil - Olive oil is an age old remedy for the hair. Natural olive oil is a natural moisturiser that can add softness and strength to your hair by penetrating the hair shaft and preserving moisture. Moisturised hair means less chance of breakage and split ends leading to thicker, healthier looking hair.
Usage: Massage some warmed olive oil into your scalp once or twice a week and comb through hair. Leave in for 30 minutes and rinse out with a sulphate-free shampoo.
Aloe vera gel - Is one of nature's natural elixirs. The gel from the plant increase is known to enhance the volume and thickness of your hair, and can help with hair regrowth. Aloe gel contains proteolytic enzymes which repairs dead skin cells on the scalp leading to thicker, healthier hair.
Usage: Massage aloe vera gel into your scalp and hair. Leave on for around an hour and rinse out with sulphate-free shampoo.
Which Vitamins Can You Take to Help Thicken Your Hair?
Which vitamins are good for your hair
You now have the tools to support your hair thickening and growth from the outside so it’s time to take care of it from the inside too. Look at it in the way your car needs healthy internal workings to function and a strong outer body to protect
Everything we put into our bodies is utilised so taking the right vitamins and nutrients is crucial in supporting your journey to thicker, healthier hair. Below we have devised a list of our most highly recommended vitamins to help you achieve full-bodied, thicker hair.
Shop our full range of vitamins for hair thickening here.
Biotin with coconut oil
If you want thicker hair then biotin with coconut oil needs to be part of your supplement regime.
Biotin is also referred to as Vitamin B₇ and its functions are to form fatty acids and glucose, convert food into energy, help manage blood sugar levels and promote healthy hair and nails.
Biotin is a hard-hitting vitamin when it comes to achieving thicker hair.
Since biotin deficiency has been shown to contribute to thinning of the hair, it has been shown that taking biotin supplements can thicken hair and stimulate hair and nail growth. In a study conducted on patients with poor hair growth, all cases where the person was receiving biotin supplementation showed evidence of clinical improvement after receiving biotin.
Coconut oil combined with biotin is a match made in hair heaven. Biotin supplements that are enhanced with coconut oil are more readily absorbed by the body. The vitamins and fatty acids present in coconut oil help to nourish the skin of the scalp and help to keep the cuticle of the hair healthy. Coconut oil is the highest natural source of lauric acid which can nourish your hair from within with vitamins, minerals and the medium-chain fatty acids. Coconut oil can help to give you faster growing and healthier hair.
ZINC - The essential trace element
Zinc is described as an ‘essential trace element’ and is not naturally produced by the human body. Supplementing with zinc tablets is a very easy way to get all the zinc you need.
Zinc deficiency is characterized by loss of appetite, hair loss and impared immune function. So what is zinc? Zinc is a nutrient found in cells throughout the human body. The human body needs a healthy amount of zinc for growth and to synthesise proteins and DNA; the genetic material in all cells. For these reasons zinc is an imperative nutrient when it comes to hair growth. Are you a vegetarian or vegan? With meat being a good source of zinc it is easy for vegetarians and vegans to be deficient. Also, the beans and grains typically consumed as an alternative contain compounds that keep zinc from being fully absorbed by the body.
Studies have been performed, looking at the effects on zinc in patients with hair loss. The findings showed that four of the six case-control studies found low zinc levels in patients with hair loss as compared to healthy control groups. The results of this study showed a strong correlation between zinc deficiency (< 70 µg/dL) and hair loss. This shows that low levels of zinc can be a contributory factor to thinning and hair loss.
Vitamin C - For tissue repairs
Vitamin C is an essential nutrient crucial to your wellbeing and because your body doesn't produce vitamin C, you need to get it from your diet. You typically obtain Vitamin C from citrus fruits and vegetables but you can also supplement.
Do you have those irritating, dry corkscrew shaped bits of hair? This is one of the telltale signs of Vitamin c deficiency. You might not have looked at your hair before to tell if you are lacking in Vitamin C but it’s about time you did.
Vitamin C is well known for being a powerful antioxidant that helps protect your body against the oxidative stress caused by free radicals. Many of us are guilty of not obtaining enough Vitamin C from our diets. A convenient way to get all the Vitamin C you need is by taking a quality supplement.
In addition, your body needs Vitamin C to create a protein known as collagen. Collagen is an important part of your hairs structure. Your body can utilize the amino acids found in collagen to build hair proteins and strengthen the skin that contains your hair roots. These factors help to make your hair thicker and stronger and less susceptible to breakage. Vitamin C also helps your body absorb iron, a mineral necessary for hair growth.
Magnesium citrate
Magnesium citrate is a form of magnesium that's bound with citric acid. It is a naturally occurring mineral that plays an important role for many systems in the body. A sign of magnesium deficiency can be fatigue so if you have been feeling drained and tired for a while it might be a contributory factor.
Did you know that magnesium is another contender when it comes to obtaining thicker hair? It plays a vital role in promoting follicle (anchors each hair into the skin) hair growth, due to its role in protein synthesis which results in healthy, thicker hair. Magnesium is responsible for well over 700 metabolic functions in the human body, so it’s no surprise that plenty of these can affect your hair growth cycle and how effective your follicles are at producing growing hair.
What's more impressive about magnesium is that it actively helps prevent a calcium buildup on your scalp. Calcium buildup on your scalp can lead to clogged hair follicles, causing your scalp to become dry and flaky, resulting in the loss of hair. As well as premature greying, a magnesium deficiency allows calcium to build up on your scalp causing thinning and hair loss.
Vitamin B complex
Vitamin B complex contains an abundance of the Vitamins B1 (Thiamin), B2 (Riboflavin), B3 (Niacin), B5 (Pantothenic Acid), B6 (Pyridoxine Hydrochloride), B7 (Biotin), B9 (Folic Acid), and Vitamin B12 (Methylcobalamin).
B vitamins are the building blocks of a healthy body, and are crucial for healthy energy levels and brain function. B vitamins play important roles in the cell metabolism and synthesis of red blood cells. Of course, B vitamins also play a vital role in the health of your hair. B vitamins are one of the best known vitamins for hair growth and if they aren’t part of your current supplement regime, it’s time you added them in! B vitamins can make a big difference to healthy and thicker hair growth for the key reason that they assist in the production of red blood cells, which transport oxygen to the scalp. A rich oxygen supply helps the hair follicles generate new hair..
Human hair requires a good mixture of both vitamins and minerals to grow nice and thick, and vitamin B12 is one of these essential vitamins.
Vitamin B12 deficiency is actually very common, but it has quite a few drawbacks including hair loss and fatigue. Women experiencing the menopause can also experience low levels of Vitamin B12 due to body and hormonal changes which makes hair thinning common in menopausal women, so supplementing with a vitamin B complex is important for this group.
Turmeric
Turmeric has been used for hundreds of years as a natural supplement due to its abundance of incredible health benefits.
Turmeric is a very popular supplement for a number of reasons. It is most commonly known for its anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to ease swelling, sore joints and arthritis pain. Did you know that turmeric is also a great choice to enhance hair growth?
Turmeric is a spice that comes from the turmeric plant and it’s bright yellow colour gives it its distinctive look.
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Turmeric contains a bioactive compound called curcumin with powerful medicinal properties. Curcumin boasts powerful anti-inflammatory effects and can help to combat dry scalp and dandruff which can lead to thinning, dry and brittle hair. The bioactive compounds in turmeric also help to combat the ageing effects of a process called oxidation in the body which can lead to chronic inflammation.
Turmeric has been seen as effective at helping to treat anxiety, depression, and more possibly due to it boosting serotonin and dopamine levels. Mood disorders such as these have also been linked to hair thinning due to the body being under a high amount of stress. As an added bonus to this incredible supplement, research studies have also suggested that turmeric may actually be just as effective as Prozac with far fewer side effects.
Get Thicker, Healthier Hair with Vitamins
Thinning hair, or hair that lacks volume can be frustrating, it can damage your confidence but it can also be a sign of a number of health issues that we have discussed in this article. Thin hair can be a sign of a poor hair-care routine and a poor diet too.
If you want thicker, healthier hair then you need to take care of it from the outside and the inside. Treating your hair well and getting rid of those harsh chemicals you may have been laying on is a good start.
In this day and age, it can be hard to hit all of your nutritional requirements. EVO Nutrition has worked hard to be able to supplement you with excellent quality vitamins and minerals which can be a super alternative to getting everything you need. From Turmeric to Vitamin B complex, there is everything you need to stay healthy.
Does vitamin C help hair growth? Formulas for hair growth supplements frequently feature this ingredient, but is vitamin C good for hair? Keep reading to learn whether vitamin C can help grow hair and how to use vitamin C for hair growth.
What is Vitamin C?
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin that plays an important role in many of our bodies’ processes. For example, vitamin C helps with wound healing and assists the immune system (that’s why you often hear people recommend vitamin C supplements to help with the common cold!).1
Our bodies cannot manufacture vitamin C, so we have to consume vitamin C through our diet and supplements. And since vitamin C is water-soluble, that means our body does not store this vital nutrient in our tissues. So, in order to make sure your body has enough vitamin C for all its processes, daily consumption is typically recommended.
how to use vitamin c for hair growth
Is Vitamin C Good for Hair?
Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant, which means that it prevents oxidation and free radical damage. Damage from free radicals ages the hair, which contributes to hair graying and hair loss.2
Additionally, your body uses vitamin C to create collagen. Collagen is a protein that is important to the structure of your hair and scalp.
Finally, vitamin C helps your body to absorb iron. Iron deficiency is linked with hair loss.3
Some brands manufacture topical vitamin C treatments for hair growth. While they may indeed work, keep in mind that vitamin C oxidizes easily with sunlight and air. Scientists have not yet determined a dosage for topical vitamin C that would produce adequate results. This means that the product may not be effective.
How to Use Vitamin C for Hair
One of the best ways to use vitamin C for hair is by eating more foods that are rich in this powerful antioxidant. Some excellent sources of vitamin C include:
Bell peppers
Oranges
Kiwis
Broccoli
Strawberries
Brussels sprouts
Grapefruit
Prolonged storage or cooking can reduce the amount of vitamin C in these foods. Luckily, many foods that are rich in vitamin C can be enjoyed raw.
While vitamin C can help hair growth, it’s not the only nutrient that is beneficial for hair. If your goal is hair growth, try a hair growth supplement that includes vitamin C as well as other nutrients that support hair.
We recommend ViviscalTM Hair Growth† Supplements, which provides a clinically proven solution for men and women suffering from fine or thinning hair to achieve, thicker, fuller, and healthier hair in 3–6 months*.
Viviscal is formulated with vitamin C and other hair-loving ingredients like biotin (vitamin B7), zinc, horsetail plant extract, iron, and niacin (vitamin B3). Viviscal also contains AminoMarTM, a proprietary marine protein complex found exclusively in Viviscal supplements.
The combination of AminoMarTM plus key vitamins and minerals in Viviscal is scientifically proven to nourish thinning hair and promote existing hair growth*. In clinical studies, women saw a 32% increase in the number of terminal hairs and a nearly 40% decrease in hair shedding/loss in just 3 months+.
So, does vitamin C help with hair growth? The answer is yes. Vitamin C is crucial for the absorption of iron and the production of collagen, and both processes are necessary for hair growth. Plus, vitamin C’s antioxidant properties help to protect hair follicles from aging free radicals. Eating foods that are rich in vitamin C and taking a supplement like Vivisal can help make sure you’re getting enough vitamin C in your diet.
We know that hair health starts from the outside in, and that hair loss is linked to factors like stress and nutritional deficiencies, which makes caring for your body as important as the products you use on your hair.
There's one nutrient in particular that's been getting a lot of buzz for its hair health-boosting effects: vitamin C. But does vitamin C actually encourage hair growth? We talked to our experts to find out. Plus, discover the best products to promote holistic hair growth from the outside in.
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What Is Vitamin C and Why Is It Important?
Let's start with the basics. What is vitamin C, and how does it affect hair growth?
"Vitamin C, or ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin derived from glucose metabolism," said clinical dermatologist and researcher Dr. Enrizza P. Factor. "It is a potent antioxidant preventing the oxidation of low-density lipoproteins and free radicals, which can cause damage."
Vitamin C supports energy production while also minimizing free radical damage, which makes this important vitamin essential to your overall health. Dr. Factor says that vitamin C's primary role in supporting a holistic beauty regime is the ways in which it supports collagen production. This is why some beauty experts call it the "skin vitamin."
"It also acts as a reducing mediator necessary for collagen fiber synthesis through hydroxylation of lysine and proline," she says, meaning that vitamin C works within your body to create the collagen production necessary to support the growth of healthier hair and skin by breaking down essential amino acids into a usable form. The vitamin C your food contains is critical in supporting your body's growth processes for new strands, while keeping existing hair growth healthy.
Vitamin C helps support the healthy functions of the body, which might include working to promote hair growth by helping the body absorb key nutrients.
"Vitamin C plays an essential role in the intestinal absorption of iron due to its chelating and reducing effect, assisting iron mobilization and intestinal absorption," Dr. Factor explains. "Therefore, vitamin C intake is important in patients with hair loss associated with iron deficiency. "
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However, this link doesn't mean that having low levels of vitamin C on its own can explain hair shedding.
"Although vitamin C deficiency is typically associated with body hair abnormalities, there is no data correlating vitamin C levels and hair loss," says Dr. Factor.
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Benefits of Vitamin C For Your Hair
The idea that vitamin C improves hair growth may be a myth, but that doesn't mean this essential hair vitamin isn't a key part of a healthy diet.
"Vitamin C can improve hair growth, fight dandruff, stop hair loss, and lead to thicker hair,” claims Dr. Factor, "while a deficiency can cause split ends."
So, how does it work? "Vitamin C helps your body absorb iron, a mineral necessary for hair growth," said Dr. Factor. Since iron deficiency can be a key component of hair loss, this vitamin is an essential component of your overall hair wellness. Making sure you're consuming enough vitamin C might help support the functionality of your scalp and the strength of your strands.
Ingesting the proper amount of vitamin C helps your epidermal stem cells function, as well as the cells at your hair follicles that help regulate growth. "Free radical damage can block growth and cause your hair to age," says Dr. Factor. "Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect against the oxidative stress caused by free radicals."
Not only is vitamin C an essential nutrient, but it also aids in collagen production. "Your body needs vitamin C to create a protein known as collagen — an important part of hair structure," Dr. Factor explains. Making sure you're consuming healthy levels of vitamin C will help keep your collagen production on track. Since your body's collagen levels start dropping around the age of 25, getting extra nutritional support for the production of this key protein is crucial for keeping your hair healthy as you age.
How To Use Vitamin C For Hair Growth
While it might not be the hair growth secret that some people make it out to be, there's no doubt that ensuring you're getting proper levels of vitamin C in your diet is seriously good for your body and your hair.
Here are some great ways to make sure your body is getting the support it needs:
Balance Your Diet
Step one in addressing a vitamin C deficiency? Dr. Factor says that making sure you're eating a balanced, well-rounded diet is the best place to start.
As with any essential vitamin, eating the rainbow is the best way to make sure your body is getting the vitamin C it needs. "Food is the best source of the vitamins you need for hair growth," she says. "Humans are naturally deficient in an enzyme called l-gulonolactone oxidase that is required for vitamin C synthesis, and should therefore take vitamin C through their diet."
So what are some good vegan sources of vitamin C you can add to your diet? Dr. Factor suggests the foods below, which have "particularly high concentrations of vitamin C."
Citrus fruits, including lemons, oranges, grapefruits, and any other citrus you love
Potatoes
Tomatoes
Bell peppers
Green peppers
Cabbages
Strawberries
Guava
Your body works best when you're getting all the nutrients it needs on a reliable, daily basis. "Eating the rainbow," and making sure you get plenty of nourishing servings of fruit and vegetables every day is a great place to start.
This is especially true since vitamin C isn't the only nutrient that's been linked to hair thinning. Other essential nutrients, including low vitamin E, zinc deficiency and low iron have been linked to hair loss. "At the end of the day, the best way to get these nutrients is by eating a balanced, real-food–based diet that includes plenty of nutrient-dense foods," Dr. Factor says.
Supplement Your Health
While eating the rainbow every day is the best way to make sure you're getting your daily dose of vitamin C, it can be challenging to ensure you're absorbing the maximum levels of this essential vitamin.
"According to research, supplements work best in individuals who are already deficient," says Dr. Factor. "So if you fail to get enough in your diet, supplements could be helpful."
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Taking a daily hair wellness gummy, such as GRO Biotin Gummies, which contain 22% of your daily vitamin C requirement, or GRO WELL Hair Boost Supplement + Probiotic, which deliver 130% of the vitamin C your body needs every day, is an easy way to ensure that your body is getting the hair health support it needs. And with studies showing that hair loss can be improved with the use of vitamin and mineral supplements, it's a scientifically-proven solution that can help address your hair wellness woes.
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Make Vitamin C Part Of Your Hair Wellness Plan
While you're working to balance your vitamin C levels, keep in mind that any individual vitamin or mineral should be part of a larger hair wellness plan.
Balancing your diet by "eating the rainbow," reducing stress, and switching to a hair product routine free of harsh chemicals are essential for developing a more holistic, sustainable approach to lifelong care for your locks.
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