Fish oil for hair: Learn how to use it to promote hair growth and more
Fish oil is a great supplement for your hair. You can use fish oil to promote hair growth and more. Learn about its benefits for hair and how to use it.
Fish oil is the oil obtained from fish such as mackerel, herring, sardines, salmon and trout. It is available as a dietary supplement in liquid or capsule form and contains high levels of omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids are known for their health benefits, including reducing inflammation and protecting the heart. They can also help support healthy hair. Since fish oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, it can help reduce skin inflammation and promote hair growth. If you are concerned about hair loss, it would be a good idea to use fish oil for hair care. However, do not overuse, as fish oil has some side effects.
What is fish oil?
Fish oil is a food product obtained from the flesh of oily fish such as mackerel, sardines, salmon, trout and herring. These foods are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, especially eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). According to the USDA, approximately 100 grams of fish oil contains 22.5 grams of omega-3 fatty acids. These omega-3 fatty acids are considered essential because our bodies cannot produce them on their own, so we must obtain them through food or supplements. Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) is another omega-3 fatty acid found in many nuts, seeds, and vegetable oils. You can take this medication in liquid or capsule form.
Fish oil for hair growth
Applying fish oil to your skin can help relieve dryness and acne. This may be what you’re looking for. According to a 2018 study published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences, fermented fish oil extract from mackerel and its component DHA may promote hair growth.
Also, in a 2015 study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, participants who took omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants for six months showed improvements in thick hair.
Fish oil helps hair growth primarily through the action of omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for maintaining healthy hair.
Here’s how it works:
Omega-3 fatty acids help improve blood circulation in the scalp. The increased blood flow helps to deliver more nutrients and oxygen to the hair follicles, helping to promote strong, healthy hair growth.
Omega-3 has anti-inflammatory properties that help to soften and condition the scalp, helping to promote healthy hair.
Omega-3 helps to keep your scalp healthy, stay healthy, and prevent issues that can affect hair growth, such as dandruff or excessive dryness.
If you have fish oil, it can help improve hair texture and add shine to your hair.
How to use fish oil for hair care?
Here’s how to add fish oil to keep your hair healthy:
1. Eat foods high in omega-3s
If you don’t want to eat fish oil, eating foods rich in omega-3s can help support healthy hair. Fish, especially oily fish like mackerel, salmon, tuna, and sardines, are a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, according to the National Institutes of Health. Try to eat at least two servings of oily fish per week to get omega-3 fatty acids.
2. Consider taking more fish oil supplements
If your diet doesn’t provide you with enough omega-3 fatty acids, your doctor may recommend taking more fish oil. The two main omega-3s found in fish oil, EPA and DHA, are essential in a healthy diet. Fish oil capsules are easy to take and come in many forms. Follow the dosage instructions on the label. However, experts say that in general, a dose of 1,000 mg to 2,000 mg per day is sufficient for healthy hair. Some people may prefer liquid fish oil for its more convenient use. The normal dose is 1 to 2 teaspoons per day.
3. Topical usage
You can take liquid fish oil and massage your scalp with it in circular movements. After leaving it on for 30 to 60 minutes, you can wash your hair with shampoo to remove the oil. However, do a patch test before using fish oil to make sure you are not allergic. Also, fish oil has a strong odor, so wash your hair thoroughly to remove any remaining odor.
What are the side effects of fish oil?
Fish oil is good for your hair, but it can have some side effects:
- Consuming large amounts of fish oil can cause gastrointestinal problems such as nausea, diarrhea, and indigestion.
- Some people may notice the fishy aftertaste after taking extra fish oil.
- Applying fish oil directly to the scalp can cause allergic reactions in some people and cause irritation, redness, or itching.
- Some fish oil products may contain heavy metals such as mercury, so only choose good, clean products.
Fish oil is especially beneficial for hair by promoting hair growth. In addition to eating fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids, you can also eat fish oil or use ointments. However, please follow the dosage recommended by your doctor to avoid side effects.