If you are reading this article you will be wondering if hair supplements can cure hair loss. Many patients who are suffering from hair loss commonly inquire about the role of vitamin and mineral supplements as a way to prevent or delay hair loss. When answering queries like this, they must take into account that there is conflicting evidence based on this subject. Following, multiple clinical trials of healthy patients consuming a range of supplements the results were variable. Over a third did not receive the results as promised by pharmaceutical companies.Two thirds had partial or questionable results

Surely, if there is a wonder pill in a bottle, everyone would jump on the band-wagon and have lustrous locks? In fact, some patients refrain from seeking medical advice or a consultation from a medical professional. They will  instead purchase vitamins and supplements in the hope that it will help. It leaves some people with uncertainty as to whether they are just popping placebos.

The unlicensed and un regulated alternative supplements markets pray upon patients vulnerability. However these unlicensed  supplements produce huge sales for mainstream markets. Many nutritional supplements are wrongly marketed as ‘hair loss ‘ solutions.

How are Hair Follicles affected by Hair Supplements?

Within the human body, the hair follicle is one of the most metabolically active tissue. Hair growth and consistency of hair growth can be instantly impacted. This can be via vitamin deficiency and protein malnutrition among several other things. For example, hormonal imbalances and change in lifestyle or circumstances ie (severe stress and changes in immunological systems). Some people may genetically suffer from these deficiencies or have a poor diet. One danger that must be highlighted, is that these supplements may bear a risk to the hair itself. For example, following an over dosage of zinc people can lose hair. Zinc is one of the essential elements for hair growth in the right dose. It is essential for the healing of wounds.

Biotin

Biotin is a water soluble vitamin which has multiple benefits for the human body. This vitamin is found in very small quantities in eggs, milk or bananas. Many  hair growth drug supplements use biotin for the shedding of hair, brittle nails and nerve damage. There is currently no research about the side effects of taking biotin however it is always advisable to consult your GP before embarking on any medication.There is minimal scientific evidence to support the role of biotin in restoring hair loss and in promoting hair growth. As a stand alone supplement it is not proven to have any beneficial effects in reducing the shedding of hair follicles.

This shows how poorly understood  hair loss in women is. With the absence of a prescription an off the counter supplementation can be harmful to the hair. Over dosage of vitamins such as Vitamin A and Vitamin B is one major contributing factor of causing hair loss. The consequence is the opposite of the desired outcome.

Essential vitamins and minerals for hair growth.

Vitamin A, Vitamin B, Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Vitamin E are essential vitamins for healthy  hair. Protein forms part of the hair structure and a high protein diet is good for hair. Zinc and Iron are also important supplements for hair follicles. A lack of iron in women is a proven cause of  hair loss. A blood test can easily determine if this is the case.  Therefore it is recommended to take vitamin B in combination with Iron supplements when restoring hair. Taking these two supplements together will stop hair loss.

How do deficiencies affect hair loss sufferers?

Commonly, women suffer from Iron deficiency.  Notably,1 in 10 women are suffering from hair loss have low levels of iron in their blood tests. This is especially for women with heavy periods. They suffer from Iron deficiency due to a lot of excessive blood loss. However, if left untreated this can contribute to  many serious health problems including Hair loss and hair follicles falling out. Following recent data and clinical trials,it is suggested that Vitamin D plays a big role in the “Hair Follicle cycling. ” There are many factors that cause vitamin D deficiency such as lack of sun exposure, older age, use of SPF/ sunscreen and darker skin. Darker skin requires greater sunlight than caucasian skin and many dark skinned people suffer from hair loss caused by vitamin D deficiency.

The human scalp contains approximately 100,000 -200,000 hair follicles (depending on ethnicity.) 90% of people are not suffering from alopecia nor in need of essential Vitamins, proteins, minerals. In a large majority of cases maintaining a balanced healthy diet, produces a healthy amount of vitamin A and there is no need for Vitamin A supplements. Protein is a component of hair and many patients report that protein shakes together with supplements in them do increase the rate of hair growth.

What is the best solution for Hair loss apart from supplements?

Nowadays, a permanent solution such as a hair transplant is surrounded by assumptions about what a hair transplant entails. A hair transplant does not use any chemicals or medicines as it will cause damage to the hair and affect the outcome. You can read more about the most modern technique in hair transplants called FUE hair transplant. Amongst all the current supplements and medication  surgery is a natural option. However steps need to be taken to reduce ongoing hair loss. This is difficult to work out in women where hair loss medication tablets are not an option. A hair transplant is a long term beneficial solution to hair loss compared to any other temporary solutions in a suitable patient. The stigma attached to hair transplant undermines the true success following the procedure. To find out more about male and female hair loss treatments visit our page here.

Addressing such a stigma is ultimately fundamental in delivering the best quality healthcare. We are noticing that hair transplants are becoming more common and less stigmatised as more celebrities come forward with them. To conclude supplements do help cure hair loss but if taken in large inappropriate doses they can make the problem worse. A blood test via your GP is the best option to see if you are suffering from a deficiency in minerals or vitamins. Find out more about non surgical solutions to hair loss.

For women PRP is a great option for restoring hair loss. If you wish to find out more don’t hesitate to contact us.

A Quality Hair Transplant London, Harley Street.