Contents
- 8 Best Hair Growth Supplements
- Nutrafol Men’s Hair Growth Supplements
- HEART & SOIL Skin, Hair & Nails Supplement
- NUTRAHARMONY Biotin Collagen & Keratin
- Viviscal Hair Growth Supplement
- Nutrafol Women’s Balance
- Moerie Ultimate Hair Growth Supplement
- Advanced Trichology FoliGROWTH Ultimate Hair Nutraceutical
- Lemme Grow Hair Growth & Anti-Shedding Capsules
- How Hair Growth Supplements Work?
- Potential Side Effects Of Hair Growth Supplements
- How To Select The Best Hair Growth Supplements?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Hair growth supplements claim to target thinning hair and address hair loss concerns. They may help nourish your hair and scalp from within by providing essential nutrients, such as biotin, iron, magnesium, folic acid, and more. They are available in capsules, gummies, and powders.
Some hair growth supplements contain biotin, collagen, or keratin, while others include plant extracts like saw palmetto or pumpkin seed oil. However, not all hair growth supplements work the same way for everyone. Factors like genetics, diet, and hair care routine may influence their effectiveness.
In this article, we examine the 8 best hair growth supplements and how they may support hair health. The article covers their working mechanism, features, and more.
8 Best Hair Growth Supplements
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Nutrafol Men’s Hair Growth Supplements
Nutrafol Men claims to tackle hair thinning by minimizing hair shedding and maintaining scalp coverage. It aims to support hair regrowth and improve thickness by targeting root causes of hair loss, such as poor nutrition, stress, and hormone imbalances.
As per the official site, each 4-capsule serving of Nutrafol Men features 1.72g of the patented Synergen Complex®, which has ingredients like saw palmetto extract, hydrolyzed marine collagen, and Sensoril® Ashwagandha root extract. It also has 575mg of the Nutrafol Blend, which contains L-cysteine, horsetail extract, L-methionine, etc.
Saw palmetto extract may help suppress dihydrotestosterone (DHT) production, a hormone that may trigger hair loss. Hydrolyzed marine collagen provides amino acids that can help build hair proteins. Sensoril® Ashwagandha helps lower stress levels, which may be a major cause of hair thinning.
The makers state that Nutrafol Men is made with premium-quality, standardized ingredients for consistent results. It is drug-free and formulated without harmful ingredients like soy, artificial hormones, GMOs, additives, or gluten.
While Nutrafol Men is generally well-tolerated, you might experience side effects due to interactions with its ingredients. For example, saw palmetto extract may trigger adverse responses such as stomach upset, nausea, dizziness, headaches, etc.
Pros
- Targets multiple hair loss causes, including stress, nutrition, and hormones.
- Contains saw palmetto to suppress DHT, which may minimize hair loss.
- Features patented Synergen Complex® with standardized ingredients.
- Free from soy, artificial hormones, GMOs, additives, and gluten.
- It might help improve hair growth and thickness.
Cons
- Requires daily intake of 4 capsules, which may be inconvenient.
- Variations in results and effectiveness.
- It may trigger stomach upset, nausea, and dizziness.
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HEART & SOIL Skin, Hair & Nails Supplement
Developed by Heart & Soil, the Skin, Hair & Nails supplement claims to stimulate collagen production and reduce inflammation. These effects might help contribute to thicker hair strands, stronger nails, and smoother skin. It might also help tackle and minimize haircare issues like a flaky scalp and dandruff by nourishing your scalp health.
As per the official site, each 6-capsule serving of Heart & Soil Skin, Hair & Nails supplement features 1200mg of New Zealand grass-fed bovine cartilage, 600mg liver, and 1200mg of bone marrow. The grass-fed bovine collagen includes Types I, V, and XI. These types of collagen might help keep your hair strands strong and healthy.
The Heart & Soil Skin, Hair & Nails formula also includes fat-soluble vitamins A and E. These vitamins may help protect the skin on your scalp from dryness and support healing. Such effects may nourish your hair from within and might help minimize hair thinning over time.
The makers state that Heart & Soil Skin, Hair & Nails supplement is free from antibiotics, pesticides, and GMOs, ensuring a clean formula. It is also Informed-Sport certified, meaning it has passed testing for banned substances and is potentially safe for athletes.
Pros
- Provides 600mg of New Zealand grass-fed liver (bovine) collagen per serving.
- It may support scalp health by reducing inflammation.
- Offers vitamins A & E for hair nourishment.
- It might help thicken and strengthen hair strands.
- Does not contain pesticides, GMOs, antibiotics, or synthetic hormones.
- It may reduce hair breakage and brittleness.
Cons
- Bovine-derived, unsuitable for vegans/vegetarians.
- The 6-capsule per day dose could be inconvenient.
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NUTRAHARMONY Biotin Collagen & Keratin
As per the official site, NUTRAHARMONY Biotin Collagen & Keratin supplement provides 10,000 mcg of biotin, 310 mg of fish collagen, 340 mcg of folate, and 80 mg of calcium, among other ingredients in every 2-capsule serving. These ingredients claim to support hair growth, nourish skin, and promote nail growth.
Biotin (vitamin B7) could help strengthen hair strands and reduce breakage. Fish collagen may help support hair structure and improve elasticity, which may help reduce thinning. Calcium is also included because it may support hair follicles and help them stay strong.
The makers state that NUTRAHARMONY Biotin Collagen & Keratin is produced in the USA using high-quality ingredients. It does not comprise GMOs, gluten, or corn syrup, which could make it compatible with various dietary restrictions.
Although NUTRAHARMONY Biotin Collagen & Keratin is typically well-tolerated, you might experience allergic responses, such as skin rashes or itching, due to biotin or other ingredients. Its collagen content may also trigger digestive discomfort, including bloating and heartburn.
Pros
- It may give 10,000 mcg of biotin per serving to support your hair growth.
- Made in GMP-certified and ISO-compliant facilities in the U.S.
- It might reinforce hair follicles, reducing premature thinning.
- It contains vitamins A, D3, B1, B2,B6,B12 to support hair health.
Cons
- It may trigger scalp oiliness or skin breakouts.
- It may cause bloating or indigestion in some users.
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Viviscal Hair Growth Supplement
According to the official site, one tablet of the Viviscal Hair Growth features 450 mg of the AminoMarâ„¢ marine complex, which is made from shark cartilage and oyster extract powder. It also includes 36.7 mg of horsetail extract, 59mg of vitamin C, and 120 mcg of biotin.
Taking Viviscal Hair Growth supplement could help nourish thinning hair and help existing hair strands grow. The AminoMarâ„¢ marine complex could provide essential proteins from marine sources, which may support your hair structure.
Vitamin C is an antioxidant that might help your body produce collagen, which is important for strong and resilient hair. Biotin is a B vitamin that could help keep hair healthy and lustrous. Horsetail extract contains silica, which may help improve hair vitality and strength.
The makers suggest taking 1 Viviscal Hair Growth supplement tablet two times a day for 3-6 months with water, preferably after a meal. However, it might not be suitable if you have seafood allergies, as it contains shark-derived constituents and shellfish.
Pros
- It may help reduce hair shedding.
- Includes biotin and vitamin C, which may promote healthy and strong hair.
- It can be compatible with multiple hair types.
- It offers a 100% drug-free formulation.
- It comes in 1-month, 3-month, and 6-month supply packs.
- It provides a 30-day refund policy on orders.
Cons
- It is not suitable for vegetarians, vegans, or people with seafood allergies.
- It contains iron, which may cause digestive issues in some users.
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Nutrafol Women’s Balance
As per the official site, Nutrafol Women’s Balance is formulated for women aged 45 and older who are experiencing hair thinning. It claims to promote visibly thicker hair, fuller scalp coverage, and stronger hair growth. It might also help improve some menopause-related symptoms, such as hot flashes, sleep disturbances, and mood changes.
Nutrafol Women’s Balance contains ingredients like organic maca root powder, selenium, Japanese knotweed extract, and L-lysine, each contributing to hair health. Maca root is an adaptogen that may help balance hormone levels, which may lower hair thinning caused by estrogen decline during menopause.
Selenium may support antioxidant defenses and thyroid function, both of which could help maintain a healthy scalp and strong hair follicles. Nutrafol Women’s Balance also has Japanese knotweed extract that features resveratrol, a potent antioxidant that might help shield hair follicles from oxidative stress, a major factor in hair aging and thinning.
The makers state that Nutrafol Women’s Balance comprises standardized, bioavailable botanicals and nutrients. It is free from harmful allergens like gluten, dairy, hormones, gelatin, artificial colors, artificial flavors, and soy. It is also non-GMO tested.
Pros
- Targets menopausal hair thinning with clinically tested ingredients.
- Includes resveratrol for follicle protection against oxidative stress.
- Does not comprise gluten, dairy, soy, or artificial additives.
- Uses bioavailable, standardized botanical extracts for better absorption.
- A subscription option is available for added savings.
- It may enhance scalp circulation, promoting stronger hair growth.
Cons
- It is more expensive than similar hair growth supplements.
- It could trigger increased facial hair growth as a side effect.
- It may not provide a quick boost in hair volume.
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Moerie Ultimate Hair Growth Supplement
The Moerie Ultimate Hair Growth Supplement claims to nourish your hair from within, making it stronger and healthier. It could also help improve hair structure, minimize breakage, and enhance shine by nourishing your scalp and hair follicles.
As per the official site, Moerie Ultimate Hair Growth Supplement features ingredients like vitamin B6, biotin, zinc, hyaluronic acid, and copper sulfate, among others. Vitamin B6 and biotin are essential for producing keratin, the protein that forms and supports the structure of your hair.
Zinc may help keep your hair follicles healthy, minimizing the risk of thinning and hair loss. Hyaluronic acid could help hydrate your scalp, ensuring a moisturized environment for stronger hair growth. Copper sulfate supports the formation of connective tissues within hair strands, improving their strength and durability.
The makers state that Moerie Ultimate Hair Growth Supplement is free from parabens, GMOs, artificial fragrances, and animal testing. These safety standards might indicate that Moerie products do not contain harmful chemicals and are potentially stable for long-term use.
While Moerie Ultimate Hair Growth Supplement claims to improve hair health, personal experiences might vary based on factors like adherence to dosage, diet, hair care routine followed, etc.
Pros
- Contains biotin, selenium, silica, and zinc to support hair growth.
- It claims to promote hair regrowth, thickness, and strength.
- Claims to tackle hair thinning and breakage by nourishing hair follicles.
- Does not contain artificial fragrances, additives, GMOs, or allergens.
- Offers a subscription option for purchases.
- Provides a convenient capsule form for easy daily intake.
Cons
- Results may take several months, requiring patience.
- Availability might be limited to online purchases only.
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Advanced Trichology FoliGROWTH Ultimate Hair Nutraceutical
Developed by Advanced Trichology, the FoliGROWTH Ultimate Hair Nutraceutical claims to improve hair thickness, strengthen hair strands, and support hair growth. It provides 90 capsules in a single bottle, equating to a daily dose of three capsules each day.
According to the official site, each serving (3 capsules) comprises a mix of 26 beneficial herbs and vitamins to support hair growth. It features 785mg of a proprietary FoliGROWTH blend, which contains ingredients like OptiMSM, inositol, and PABA (P-aminobenzoic acid). It also provides 800 mcg of folate, 30 mg of niacin, and 47 mg of vitamin E, among other ingredients.
The ingredients in FoliGROWTH work in different ways to help hair grow and stay strong. Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant that may protect hair follicles from damage. Niacin might improve blood circulation to the scalp, helping your hair follicles absorb more nutrients.
OptiMSM provides sulfur, which is important for making collagen and keratin, two essential proteins that contribute to stronger hair strands. Inositol and PABA might help with hair growth and may support natural hair color.
As per the makers, FoliGROWTH Ultimate Hair Nutraceutical is a nutraceutical brand accepted by the American Hair Loss Association, which may indicate its effectiveness and reliability. However, you might experience side effects like bloating, dizziness, flushing, or nausea.
Pros
- Helps hair grow with important nutrients like biotin, vitamin E, and niacin.
- Comes with a generous 90-day refund policy on orders.
- Supports scalp health by fighting inflammation and DHT-related hair loss.
- Comes in original and methylated formulas.
Cons
- Results vary based on diet, health, and genetics.
- Its high biotin content may cause acne breakouts.
- Costs $44.95 per bottle, which may be expensive for some.
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Lemme Grow Hair Growth & Anti-Shedding Capsules
Lemme Grow Hair Growth & Anti-Shedding capsules claim to promote thicker and fuller hair while minimizing hair shedding. It also claims to help stimulate collagen production and does not contain biotin, which could make it potentially safe for people with sensitive skin and hair.
As per the official site, a 2-capsule serving of Lemme Grow Capsules comprises 500 mg of solubilized keratin (Cynatine HNS®), 15 mg of zinc, 100 mg of L-cysteine, and 60 mg of vitamin C. It also includes other ingredients like niacin, vitamin B6, copper, and more.
Cynatine HNS®, a special type of solubilized keratin, is shown in clinical studies to reduce hair shedding in 30 days and promote hair growth in 12 weeks. It works by maintaining the structure of hair proteins, which could help make hair strands stronger and shinier.
The makers state that Lemme Grow Capsules are made without artificial flavors, sweeteners, or synthetic colors. It is also gluten-free and GMO-free, which might make it a potentially cleaner formulation for hair support. However, Lemme Grow Hair Growth & Anti-Shedding capsules do not contain biotin.
Pros
- Uses clinically-studied Cynatine HNS® to promote thicker, fuller hair.
- Its biotin-free formula may be suitable for sensitive skin and hair.
- It may support and nourish scalp and follicle health.
- It could help boost hair radiance and shine.
- Does not contain parabens, gelatin, silicon dioxide, etc.
Cons
- Primarily sold through the official site, making it harder to find in retail stores.
- Ingredients like l-cysteine could trigger sensitivities in some people.
How Hair Growth Supplements Work?
Hair growth supplements may work by supporting the biological processes that influence hair health. Hair follicles, where hair grows, need key nutrients like biotin, amino acids, and minerals to produce keratin, the main structural protein of hair. Some ingredients help balance hormones by reducing dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that can shrink follicles and cause thinning. Antioxidants like vitamins A, C, and E protect follicles from oxidative stress and inflammation, preventing damage that can slow growth. Compounds like keratin, collagen, silica, and MSM strengthen the hair shaft, reducing breakage and promoting thicker, healthier hair. These hair growth supplements also improve blood circulation to the scalp, ensuring that hair follicles receive enough oxygen and nutrients to stay in the active growth phase (anagen).
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Potential Side Effects Of Hair Growth Supplements
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Acne Breakouts
You might notice sudden acne breakouts after starting a hair growth supplement, especially if it contains excessive biotin content. Biotin competes with vitamin B5 in your body, which might lead to increased oil production in your skin. The excess oil might clog your pores, leading to acne breakouts on your face, back, or chest.
Some hair growth supplements also contain iodine or collagen, which may trigger inflammation and worsen acne if you have sensitive skin. If you have hormonal acne, some herbal ingredients like saw palmetto might shift your hormone balance, causing flare-ups.
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Digestive Discomfort
You may experience stomach pain, bloating, or nausea after taking hair growth supplements. It may happen because of reactions to ingredients like biotin, zinc, or iron, which might irritate your stomach lining.
If you take hair growth supplements without food, the acids in your stomach may react more strongly, leading to discomfort. If you have a sensitive stomach, an ingredient like saw palmetto might trigger gastrointestinal issues like acid reflux or mild gastritis.
Some supplement brands also use artificial fillers or gelatin coatings, which could make digestion harder. In some cases, you might also experience diarrhea if your gut doesn’t absorb some minerals properly.
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Unwanted Hair Growth
While supplements aim to promote scalp hair growth, you may also notice increased hair growth in unwanted areas. Ingredients like collagen, horsetail extract, and DHT-blocking herbs might stimulate hair follicles across your body, not just on your head.
Such effects might contribute to thicker or darker facial hair, more noticeable arm hair, or even fine hair growth on your back. In rare cases, hair growth supplements may disrupt your natural hair cycle, potentially leading to faster hair growth in unexpected places.
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Hormonal Imbalance
Some hair growth supplements contain ingredients that may affect your hormone levels. If you take supplements with saw palmetto, pumpkin seed extract, or spearmint, they might lower your DHT levels, which may help minimize hair loss but could also disrupt your natural hormone balance.
The disruption in hormone balance may cause you to experience mood swings, reduced energy levels, or changes in your menstrual cycle. It may exacerbate existing symptoms in women with polycystic ovary syndrome or a history of hormonal issues.
Men might notice reduced libido or mild breast tissue enlargement due to the effects of hair growth supplements on testosterone levels. If you start feeling different or notice unexpected hormonal changes, switching to a milder supplement may help.
How To Select The Best Hair Growth Supplements?
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Look For DHT Blockers
When choosing a hair growth supplement, you may want to look for natural DHT blockers if hair thinning is a concern. DHT (dihydrotestosterone) is a hormone that may shrink hair follicles and weaken hair growth, especially in people with androgenetic alopecia.
You might want to look for hair growth supplements with ingredients like saw palmetto, pumpkin seed oil, and stinging nettle, which may help reduce DHT levels. These ingredients might work by suppressing DHT production, which might help slow down the rate of hair loss.
The pumpkin seed oil contains phytosterols that may block DHT activity and improve hair density. In one study, men taking 400 mg of pumpkin seed oil daily saw a 40% increase in hair growth within 24 weeks.
Choosing a hair growth supplement with a combination of these DHT blockers may be more effective than relying on just one. However, personal experiences might vary based on genetics, consistency, and overall health.
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Check Absorption And Bioavailability
You should focus on ingredients that your body can absorb efficiently. Some nutrients, like biotin, collagen, and zinc, might not be fully utilized if they are not in the right form. To enhance bioavailability, you should look for hair growth supplements with absorption boosters. For example, biotin supports hair health, but your body might absorb it better when it is paired with black pepper extract (BioPerine®). It might help maximize biotin’s effects on hair growth and strength.
The delivery method of a hair growth supplement may also influence its effectiveness. Liposomal delivery systems wrap vital nutrients like vitamin C and keratin in tiny fat-like bubbles, which might help them pass through your digestive system more easily.
Some minerals, such as zinc, might be more effective in chelated forms, where they are bound to amino acids for easier absorption. Choosing hair growth supplements with these advanced absorption methods may help you achieve faster and more noticeable results.
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Refrain From Harmful Additives
Try to avoid hair growth products with artificial fillers, synthetic dyes, and high sugar content. These additives may not provide any real benefits and may even trigger unwanted side effects. Artificial fillers, such as magnesium stearate or silicon dioxide, might help with manufacturing but do not support hair health. You might experience digestive discomfort or allergic reactions from these ingredients. Synthetic dyes, like FD&C Red No. 40 or Yellow No. 5, may trigger sensitivities, leading to headaches or skin irritation.
Excess sugar in hair growth supplements might contribute to blood sugar spikes and inflammation, which may negatively affect hair growth. You should opt for products that use plant-based or mineral-based fillers, such as organic rice flour or vegetable cellulose, which may be easier for your body to process.
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Examine User Reviews And Brand Reputation
You should look for feedback on hair thickness, reduced shedding, and regrowth over time. Pay attention to reviews from people with your hair type or issues, such as thinning due to aging, postpartum hair loss, or stress-related shedding.
Customer testimonials on official websites might highlight positive experiences, but third-party platforms like Trustpilot, Reddit, or dermatology blogs could provide more balanced insights. Since some reviews could be fake or biased, comparing opinions from multiple sources might give you a more accurate picture.
Established brands should have a track record of producing safe and reliable hair growth products. You should check if the supplement formulation is backed by clinical trials or scientific research. Third-party testing could further ensure quality and safety, as it verifies that the product meets industry standards.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do Hair Growth Supplements Work For All Hair Types?
Hair growth supplements may benefit most hair types, including straight, coily, wavy, or curly hair. However, personal responses might vary based on genetics, hair care routine, and underlying health conditions. - Can Hair Growth Supplements Improve Scalp Health?
Many hair growth supplements contain nutrients like vitamin E, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids, which may support scalp circulation and reduce dryness or inflammation. - Do Hair Growth Supplements Change Hair Texture Or Color?
Hair growth supplements might not alter your natural hair color or texture, but they may improve hair quality, making them appear shinier, softer, and fuller. - Can Hair Growth Supplements Work For Postpartum Hair Loss?
Postpartum hair loss is typically triggered by hormonal changes after childbirth, and hair growth supplements may help replenish lost nutrients. Biotin, iron, and collagen could help support hair regrowth, but since postpartum recovery varies, it’s best to consult a doctor before taking them.
Conclusion
Using hair growth supplements might help provide you with more voluminous hair, reduce hair shedding and split ends, and nourish your scalp. However, hair growth supplements alone may not be effective in producing these benefits and providing results.
Instead, pairing hair growth supplements with appropriate hair care practices might help support hair growth and minimize hair loss. These may include gently massaging your scalp daily, avoiding the use of chemicals and heat styling tools, trimming split ends, and consuming biotin-rich foods.
Before selecting a hair growth supplement, you should focus on factors like its composition, the presence of DHT blockers, user reviews, pricing, and nutrients. Overuse of hair growth supplements may also trigger side effects like bloating, diarrhea, headaches, or potential allergic reactions.
Rachel has been a freelance medical writer for more than 18 years. She graduated from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville in 2005 and is currently practicing as a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist at a Level I trauma center.
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