Having healthy and lustrous hair is a desire shared by many. While there are numerous hair care products available on the market, natural supplements offer an alternative approach to nourishing your hair from within and can often be used along with physician prescribed scalp medications. Packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, these supplements can support hair growth, strengthen your strands, and improve overall hair health. In this blog post, we will explore some of the most popular natural supplements for maintaining and enhancing the health of your hair and scalp.
1. Biotin
Biotin, also known as vitamin B7, is a popular supplement known for its hair health benefits. It plays a crucial role in the production of keratin, the protein that forms the structure of hair strands. Biotin is essential for hair growth and strength. Adequate biotin is important to help reduce hair breakage and may help enhance the thickness and shine of your hair. Biotin is often recommended for individuals with thinning hair or brittle nails. A Swiss study reported that 38% of women that had complaints of hair loss also had low biotin levels. Some people can be prone to biotin deficiency, and low biotin levels are more common in those who have taken antibiotics, those with inflammatory bowels disease, athletes, and people who have taken certain types of medication.
2. Collagen
Collagen is the most abundant protein in your entire body, and it helps make up your tendons, ligaments, and your skin. Collagen is vital to skin resiliency and strength. Collagen’s role in hair health lies mainly beneath the skin, deep in the structures that support the hair follicles. Collagen is an antioxidant and helps fight the damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals and oxidative stress can damage the hair follicles, leading to hair loss, especially with age. Oxidative stress can also play a role in the graying of hair. Though data is not robust, since collagen is an antioxidant and helps fight free radicals and damage to the delicate structures surrounding hair follicles, it may improve hair health and thickness and may also reduce damage to the pigment cells that give hair color and help prevent the hair from prematurely graying.
3. Saw Palmetto
Saw palmetto is a natural supplement derived from the berries of Serenoa repens, a type of tree that is native to the Southeastern USA. It is commonly used to support prostate health, but it also is used for hormonal imbalance and hair health. Saw palmetto helps block the conversion of testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone associated with hair loss. By reducing DHT levels, saw palmetto may slow down hair loss and promote hair regrowth. Saw palmetto has been used for conditions like genetic hair thinning, telogen effluvium, and general hair thinning.
4. Zinc
Zinc is an essential mineral that plays a vital role in tissue growth and repair. Since zinc is an essential mineral, the body cannot generate it on its own; it must be supplied through the diet. Zinc deficiency can occur in those with inflammatory bowel disease, people who have had certain weight loss surgeries, those that consume large amounts of cereal grain, and in people that don’t consume much meat. Zinc deficiency has been linked to hair loss and certain scalp conditions such as dandruff. Taking zinc supplements may improve hair loss and alleviate scalp issues in those with deficiency.
5. Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil supplements, are known for their anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation in the scalp can hinder hair growth and contribute to conditions like dandruff and psoriasis. Omega-3 supplements may help reduce inflammation, nourish the hair follicles, and promote healthy hair growth. They also may improve scalp health by improving the skin barrier function and boosting moisture and reducing dryness. Omega-3 fatty acid supplements are also reported to boost hair growth and reduce hair loss.
5. Rosemary Oil
Rosemary oil has been used for centuries for its various health benefits, including its positive effects on hair and scalp health. This essential oil has been reported to stimulate hair follicles, promote blood circulation, and reduce hair loss. Rosemary oil should never be applied directed to the scalp. It should always be diluted. Also, before using essential oils like rosemary oil, it’s important to perform a patch test to check for any potential allergic reactions. The antioxidant properties of rosemary oil may help neutralize free radicals that can damage hair follicles and lead to hair thinning. When applied topically, rosemary oil may help improve scalp conditions such as dandruff and dryness and help alleviate scalp itchiness and irritation. Its antimicrobial properties may also help combat fungal and bacterial infections, keeping the scalp healthy and balanced. Revita+Fol™ Defense Serum is enriched with rosemary to nourish the scalp, strengthen hair follicles, and support improved blood flow and healthier hair growth.
Conclusion
Natural supplements can be a beneficial addition to your hair care routine, supporting hair growth, strength, and overall health. However, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplements, especially if you are pregnant, have underlying health conditions or are taking medications. Remember, supplements work best when combined with a balanced diet, proper hair care practices, and a healthy lifestyle. Embrace the power of natural supplements for hair health and enjoy the beauty of vibrant, nourished hair that shines from within.
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