If you're like us, you've probably heard about almost aaaaall of the supplements out there.
Society puts a huge pressure on women's, so-called, beauty standards. Hair being a big part of that picture. And the beauty industry will do just about anything to keep you buying that one miraculous thing that's going to make your hair "look better".
So many factors play a part in how your hair looks...age, genetics, ethnicity, medical conditions, hormone levels, diet, stress...you get the picture. So, let's talk supplements and vitamins....
Celebs selling hair health.....
Hair vitamins are supplements with purported benefits for hair health. Popular brands claim that their products can improve hair growth, shine, thickness, and strength.
There are a multitude of products is on the market, many of which contain similar ingredients, including biotin, vitamins C and E, collagen, folic acid, and omega-3 fatty acids. They may also contain additions like ashwagandha and ginseng, which some people believe can strengthen hair.
And usually these products are endorsed by paid celebrities and influencers but rarely by health professionals.
Key Ingredients
As we mentioned before, hair health is determined by a multitude of factors, this makes it difficult to determine the root cause or causes of any issues.
Signs of unhealthy hair include noticeable hair loss or thinning, lack of growth, dryness, weakness, brittleness, and dullness.
Some of the key ingredients you may have seen at the forefront of the hair supplement push are...
protein
vitamin A
vitamin B12
vitamin C
vitamin D
vitamin E
biotin (B7)
iron
selenium
zinc
So we will say, protein IS essential for hair growth, as it’s the main building block of hair. An additionally, deficiencies in nutrients like B vitamins, iron, and vitamins C and D have been linked to hair loss, poor hair growth, and weak hair.
Increased hair loss and weak, unhealthy hair can also be caused by diets that are extremely low in calories and fat, such as certain weight loss diets, as well as diets that remove entire food groups, such as vegan eating patterns.
As we mentioned in last week's blog, If you suspect any underlying causes of hair loss or a lack of growth, it’s important to work with a dermatologist or other healthcare professional to identify them.
Effectiveness
Despite the widespread use of hair vitamins and supplements, there’s little clinical data to support their ability to treat hair conditions.
While certain nutrients have been linked to better hair health, most studies have shown that hair supplements are only effective in people whose hair issues are caused by an existing nutrient deficiency.
Meaning, if you are deficient in biotin and started taking it (as guided by a physician), then you would most likely see a positive change in your hair. But for someone with great biotin levels, you would not be likely to see a change.
In short, Taking nutrients when you don’t have a deficiency likely won’t improve hair growth or appearance.
Plus there is more of a risk of adverse side effects from taking nutrients your body doesn't need.
Furthermore, there’s little evidence that hair loss supplements with nutrients like iron, biotin, B vitamins, vitamin C, zinc, selenium, and folic acid improve hair health or growth. Rather, some supplements may even worsen hair loss or cause nutrient toxicity.
Instead of taking arbitrary supplements to promote hair growth, try to work with a healthcare professional to determine any underlying causes and screen for deficiencies that can be treated through your diet, carefully selected supplements, or both.
The bottom line....
To date, no clinical studies show that hair vitamins and supplements promote hair growth, prevent hair loss, or improve other facets of healthy hair such as dryness, shine, and thickness.
In rare cases in which poor hair health is caused by nutrient deficiencies, taking supplements may improve hair quality. A diet low in calories, fat, or protein is also linked to hair loss, and upping your intake of these may do the trick.
However, for most healthy people, taking hair supplements is unlikely to confer any benefits. Instead, focus on eating a varied diet comprising mostly whole, minimally processed foods to provide your body with the nutrients it needs to produce healthy hair.
Though it may be tempting to buy hair vitamins, you’re better off investing your money and time elsewhere. If you suspect any underlying causes of your hair issues, consider talking to a healthcare professional.
My hair is healthy but I don't like it!
This is where we, the hairstylists, come in. From texture to density and length, there are a myriad of options.
For texture issues, consult your stylist about keratin treatments or brazillian blow outs.
Each offer separate benefits and may be a right fit for some. You can also seek out a curly hair specialist, someone who has been trained in hair textures and can customize a hair routine to bring out the best in your tresses.
Length and Density...You know what we're gonna say! Hair extensions are a great way to fill in fine or thinning hair and it's not like you have to have a full head of extensions. Your stylist can customize the amount of additional hair you will need to feel happy and confident. For those with thinning hair up top- look into hair toppers.
There really are so many options and we'd be happy to discuss them all with you.
At Bilancio we are dedicated to getting the hair of your dreams.
SALON BILANCIO
1414 Fourth Street
San Rafael, CA
Sources: Healthline dot com
American Association of Dermatology
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