The Science of Hair Supplements: Achieving Healthy Hair from Within

When it comes to haircare, topical treatments can only go so far in achieving lasting results. Beyond all the fleeting trends lies the secret to truly vibrant hair: cellular nourishment.

While topical treatments are an important part of hair care, achieving truly healthy hair comes from within – which is why hair growth supplements are increasingly popular¹. This means nourishing hair from the inside is important, with a focus on nutrition and cellular support.

In this article, we’ll explore the science behind hair supplements and vitamins. Delving into the essential nutrients that support healthy hair growth and uncover how hair supplements may help address common hair concerns. 

In this guide:

• Understanding hair supplements: what they are and how they work
• The science behind hair growth supplements
• Key supplement ingredients and their benefits
• Choosing the right hair supplements: what to look for
• Debunking beauty supplement myths
• The future of hair supplements: personalised approaches
• Frequently asked questions

Understanding Hair Supplements: What They are and How They Work

Hair growth supplements are concentrated doses of vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients designed to support healthy hair growth and improve overall hair condition. They come in various forms, including tablets, powders, and even gummies.

Unlike topical treatments that work on the surface of the hair, oral supplements are ingested and absorbed through the digestive system into the bloodstream² . Once in the bloodstream, these nutrients are transported throughout the body – including to the hair follicles, where they get to work supporting many aspects of hair health.

Hair health is influenced by a variety of factors, including genetics, diet, stress levels, hormonal changes, and environmental exposure³. Understanding these factors is crucial for developing a holistic approach to hair care. Certain nutrients play a vital role in contributing to hair vitality, from promoting growth and strength to improving shine and texture.

Here are some of the key nutrients commonly found in hair care supplements and their specific roles:

• Biotin (Vitamin B7): supports keratin production, a key protein that’s in charge of forming hair, skin and nails⁴.
• Vitamin D: Supports hair follicle growth as well as the immune system⁵. 
• Vitamin C: A powerful antioxidant that protects hair follicles from damage. It’s also essential for collagen  production⁶ which may contribute to healthier hair.
• Vitamin E: Another antioxidant that helps protect hair follicles and promote a healthy scalp⁷.
• Zinc: Necessary for hair follicle function, zinc protects against follicle shrinkage and encourages hair follicle recovery⁸. 
• Iron: Essential for carrying oxygen to the hair follicles, iron promotes healthy growth⁹.
• Selenium: Helps protect hair from damage, promoting its overall health¹⁰.
• L-Lysine and L-Cysteine: Amino acids are essential building blocks for proteins¹¹. L-Lysine plays a role in collagen synthesis¹² and L-Cysteine is a direct component of keratin¹³, which is the main structural component of hair.
  
• Collagen: A protein that provides structure and strength to hair. It also acts an an antioxidant to fight damage caused by free radicals¹⁴.
• Ceramosides: These plant-derived ceramides – lipid molecules resembling those found naturally in our skin. They help reinforce the skin’s outer barrier, improving hydration and reducing trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL).
• Miliacin: Derived from millet, Miliacin is known for its potential to stimulate keratin production, a key protein for hair structure. It may contribute to improved hair strength, reduced hair loss, and enhanced shine and volume.
• Ergothioneine (EGT): A powerful amino acid and antioxidant that helps protect cells from oxidative stress and supports cellular health, contributing to hair follicle vitality. It helps protect energy centres within cells, which is important for hair growth.
• Niacinamide: A form of Vitamin B3 that boosts NAD+ levels, crucial for cellular repair and energy production in hair follicles, promoting healthy hair growth.
• Keranat™: A clinically proven extract from French Millet, rich in hair-nourishing polar lipids, to support optimal hair growth and vitality, improve hair resistance, and enhance hair density [ii].
• Ovoderm®: A science-backed ingredient derived from eggshell membrane, rich in diverse types of collagen (I, V & X), hyaluronic acid, and elastin to support hair health and volume. 
  

Common hair concerns and how supplements may help

Hair issues are often multifaceted, reflecting underlying imbalances. Hair growth supplements can play a supportive role in addressing these concerns.

Here are some concerns that hair supplements may help with:

• Hair thinning: Supplements can deliver essential nutrients that may support hair follicle health, strengthen existing strands, and help reduce excessive shedding. Key nutrients like biotin, zinc, and iron play a crucial role in maintaining healthy hair follicle function¹⁵.
• Hair loss: While hair loss can result from a variety of factors, nutrient deficiencies are often a contributing cause¹⁶. Hair care supplements may help address these gaps by providing the essential building blocks for healthy hair growth. 
  
• Slow growth: Hair growth supplements can provide the essential nutrients needed for optimal hair health and may promote faster hair growth.
• Brittle and damaged hair: If your hair is damaged, supplements may help strengthen strands, improve elasticity, and minimise breakage. 
• Dry and dull hair: Hair care supplements may improve scalp health and hair hydration by providing essential nutrients like vitamin E, which helps nourish the scalp, promote healthy sebum production, and improve hair shine⁷.
  

The science behind hair growth supplements

Hair health can be complex, and there's no one-size-fits-all solution. While research in this area is ongoing, there is some evidence to support the role of certain nutrients in promoting healthy hair growth.

Biotin  

Research suggests that biotin supplementation may improve hair growth and thickness in individuals with a biotin deficiency. However, it's important to note that biotin deficiency is relatively rare in the UK due to varied diets¹⁷.

Vitamin D

Studies have linked low vitamin D levels to hair loss, suggesting that supplementation may be beneficial for individuals with a deficiency¹⁷. Especially as, due to limited sunlight exposure, Vitamin D deficiency is prevalent in the UK¹⁸. Iron deficiency can also be a cause of hair loss, and iron supplementation may help with this¹⁹.

Vitamin C

As a powerful antioxidant and key component in collagen synthesis, Vitamin C is another crucial vitamin for healthy hair. Studies have shown that it protects hair follicles from oxidative stress and supports the structural integrity of hair strands²⁰.

Copper

This essential mineral plays a vital role in maintaining normal hair pigmentation by contributing to the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for hair color. Copper also acts as an antioxidant, protecting hair follicles from oxidative stress, which can contribute to premature graying and hair damage.

It's important to have realistic expectations when using hair supplements. While they can be a valuable tool for supporting hair health, they’re not a guaranteed solution for all hair concerns. Their effectiveness can depend on various factors, including your overall health, diet, genetics, and the specific cause of your hair concerns.

It's also essential to remember that supplements may not work for everyone, and results can vary.