Dealing with hair loss? Try 5 essential vitamins for hair growth

Vitamin deficiency can cause hair loss, which is a common problem. Therefore, do not forget to eat well and supplement vitamins that support hair growth.

Hair loss is a problem caused by factors such as genetics, hormonal imbalances, stress, and nutritional deficiencies. Among these, vitamin deficiency plays an important role in hair because vitamins are important for many body functions, including cell growth. Taking too many vitamins can cause hair loss. However, taking the right amount of vitamins can help keep your hair healthy and help with hair growth. In addition to using the right shampoo and conditioner, pay attention to vitamins that support hair growth.

Does vitamin deficiency cause hair loss?

Yes, vitamin deficiency can cause hair loss. Vitamins are needed to maintain the health of hair follicles and scalp. They support the immune system, which is important for strong hair. Vitamin D deficiency can inhibit hair growth and cause hair loss. Even vitamin deficiency or excess can negatively affect hair health.

Vitamins that support hair growth

All vitamins are important for health, but these vitamins are particularly helpful in preventing hair loss:

1. Vitamin A

Vitamin A is important for cell growth, vision and immunity, but too much vitamin A can cause hair loss. High levels of vitamin A can inhibit hair growth and cause follicles to enter the early stage of shedding.

2. Vitamin C

As an antioxidant, vitamin C helps with the absorption of iron, an important mineral for healthy hair. Iron deficiency or anaemia can cause hair loss. Getting enough vitamin C from sources such as citrus fruits and tomatoes can help increase iron absorption and promote hair growth. According to the NHS, people aged 19 to 64 need 40mg of vitamin C a day. If you suffer from iron-deficient hair, vitamin C supplements may help, according to Harvard Health Publishing.

3. Vitamin D

Known for its role in calcium and phosphorus homeostasis and immunity, Vitamin D deficiency is associated with hair loss. A 2016 study published in the International Journal of Trichology found that low levels of vitamin D were associated with female pattern baldness. Vitamin D is synthesized in the skin when exposed to UVB rays, and a deficiency causes the hair follicles to bleed. Adults need 10 micrograms of vitamin D a day, according to the NHS.

4. Vitamin B3 (nicotinic acid)

It acts as a coenzyme in many metabolic reactions and cannot damage the scalp or affect hair growth. According to the NHS, women need 13.2mg of vitamin B3 a day.

5. Biotin

It is an important vitamin in the production of keratin, the main protein in hair. Genetic or acquired biotin deficiency can cause severe hair loss, and biotin supplements can help hair grow. According to a 2017 study published in the journal Cutaneous Adnexal Diseases, biotin supplements may help promote hair growth in people who are deficient in this vitamin.

How to use vitamins to promote hair growth?

To improve hair growth, it is better to use a cyclical vitamin supplement instead of a multivitamin pill that contains all the necessary vitamins and minerals. Perhaps it is difficult for the body to absorb all the nutrients when eaten at the same time. Alternatively, dividing the diet into mixed doses, for example, eating vitamin C with iron one day and vitamin D with calcium another day can increase absorption. This method allows for better absorption and utilization of vitamins for hair growth.

Also, vitamins taken orally are generally more effective than prescription drugs because they are absorbed into the bloodstream and support cell differentiation, growth, and many other metabolic activities. Experts say, “Topical products may not penetrate deep enough to affect a healthy hair follicle.” However, you should be careful and consult a doctor about your condition and needs.

Side effects of taking too many vitamins

While water-soluble vitamins such as biotin and vitamin C are usually excreted from the body when taken in excess, fat-soluble vitamins such as vitamins A and D can accumulate in the body and cause poisoning. For example, too much vitamin D can cause the following symptoms:

• Gastrointestinal discomfort
• Muscle weakness
• Excessive thirst
• Frequent urination
• Lethargy
• Confusion

Therefore, it is important to follow the recommendations and consult your doctor before starting to use supplements for hair growth.

Vitamins play an important role in maintaining healthy hair, and some can cause hair loss. Ensuring you get enough vitamins through diet or supplements can help promote hair growth and overall health. However, intake should be carefully controlled to avoid toxic effects from taking too much of the vitamins, especially fat-soluble vitamins.