When you're struggling with hair fall or hair breakage more than usual, one of the best things you can do is to take hair vitamins. We lose about 50 to 150 strands of hair per day, but some may lose more than that. Fortunately, hair vitamins are widely available in the form of tablets, capsules, and gummies that you can easily take to improve your condition.
Hair loss is usually caused by age, genes, hormonal changes, stress, and others. That said, whether you are suffering from hair loss or just aiming to maintain your healthy hair, you'll find below a buying guide with the things you should consider before getting hair vitamins, with comments and insights from board-certified dermatologist Dr. Katrina Erika Habaluyas Luz, together with our 10 picks of the best products you can buy online for easy shopping.
Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz is the face behind Ask Your Derma. She is a board-certified dermatologist in Metro Manila. She is also an educator and digital creator on all things skin, hair, and nails. She is a Diplomate of the Philippine Dermatological Society and offers online video consultations. You can also catch her on her Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube channel.
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Here are some key points to consider:
For more detailed information, read through our buying guide below.
If you plan to take hair vitamins, you have to consider the components of the vitamin you are about to take. Identifying beneficial elements such as minerals and nutrients can improve your chances of having healthier hair.
Hair vitamins usually contain the two powerhouses when it comes to hair healthーbiotin and collagen. These two ingredients promote hair growth and strengthen hair strands, as well as improve the condition of our skin and nails.
Aside from those two, you might also find other ingredients for increasing hair strength, such as silica, L-cysteine, argan oil, iodine, and Vitamin C. These are often used in conjunction with other hair growth boosters to fight hair fall and improve the appearance of your hair.
Biotin has been marketed left and right as being important for healthy hair. But given that biotin is something we can get from our diet, the question is are biotin supplements a must? The truth is the utility of biotin in healthy individuals has been met with little to no evidence. It is potentially useful if you have a biotin deficiency (which interestingly is pretty rare!).
Vitamin D is an essential nutrient in the body. It keeps our bones strong and helps boost our immunity. But more than that, this vitamin also makes our skin healthier by stimulating cell growth. This growth aids in creating new hair follicles while restoring the old ones. Thus, a vitamin D deficiency would lead to hair loss.
Other ingredients that help stimulate hair follicles are saw palmetto, curcumin, folic acid, choline, inositol, methylsulfonylmethane (MSM), and B-vitamins, especially pantothenic acid and vitamin B12. These components are crucial in the development of healthy hair follicles and are often used in hair loss remedies.
Certain vitamin deficiencies have been associated with hair loss. Hence, the concept of vitamin supplementation to address hair growth came about. For example, vitamin B2 (riboflavin) deficiency has been found to cause hair loss. The same goes with vitamin D particularly. Patients with vitamin D-dependent rickets have experienced hair loss as well.
Consult your doctor if you are experiencing hair loss so that the necessary workup can be done to identify if you have a vitamin deficiency and if supplementation is needed.
Just like vitamin D, zinc is also an important nutrient in the body. This nutrient is known for developing and boosting the immune system. Unfortunately, our bodies can neither store nor produce it naturally. Hence, we have to continually consume food with a high amount of zinc to supplement it.
This lack of zinc often results in hair loss and lowers the body's ability to heal wounds. If you are suffering from hair loss, taking vitamins that contain this essential nutrient will help. Apart from the fact that our bodies generally need zinc, it also aids in producing protein and other cells that help repair hair tissues to promote growth.
Zinc deficiency has been associated with a condition called alopecia. However, the role of zinc supplementation has been open to debate as studies have had conflicting results. If you're experiencing patches of hair loss, it is best to consult with your dermatologist so that the necessary assessment can be made.
To keep your hair thick and lustrous, hair care shouldn't just address the condition of the strands. A healthy scalp is essential, too, since this promotes good cell turnover and the development of healthy hair follicles.
Thus, it's important to look for formulations that include antioxidants like sunflower oil, vitamin A, and horsetail extract. These neutralize free radicals that may be damaging to the hair and scalp and help boost circulation for optimum hair growth.
Vitamin A is an important vitamin as it is key in many critical processes in our body—hair included! More often than not, a balanced diet is sufficient to obtain an adequate amount of vitamin A needed by the body. Make sure to check in with your doctor and/or nutritionist about vitamin supplementation as over-supplementing vitamin A can cause hair loss.
Like other kinds of vitamins, hair vitamins are available in different forms. You can choose between tablets, capsules, gummies, or liquid applicators. No vitamin form is superior to the other; selecting the type is a matter of preference and allows for easier intake.
Make sure to consult your doctor to find out the recommended daily intake for that particular vitamin or mineral you're planning to take. Remember, not all types of vitamins or minerals are available in all the different forms.
If you have difficulty swallowing, tablet vitamins might work for you. Their tiny size allows for fast and easy ingestion. Although most tablets are about an inch in size, you can always opt for smaller ones. Unlike capsules and soft gels that might get sticky once damp, their solid and compressed structure allow a smoother intake.
Unlike tablets, wherein the components are compressed in a solid pill, vitamins in capsule form have an enclosed outer shell layer that houses the ingredients. Once taken, the shell will break down into pieces easily and release the vitamins.
There are two types of capsules, the hard-shell and the softgel. The former consists of two halves of outer shells that create a closed case; this type usually contains powders or pellets inside. Softgels, on the other hand, look almost transparent and house a liquid vitamin in a gelatin-like case. Neither capsule form is better than the other, it is simply a matter of preference.
These vitamins are currently the crowd’s favorite. Gummy vitamins are chewable with a candy-like texture and appealing tastes. Although they are made to entice children to take vitamins, they have become popular among adults as well.
These tasty treats contain gelatin, sugar, water, and cornstarch, which also includes the necessary nutrients. However, even if they are fun to eat, remember to take only the required amount per day.
Unlike the other forms mentioned above, this type contains a liquid formulation housed in a jelly-like capsule container that requires direct hair application for better absorption. Note that it is not meant to be taken orally or through the mouth.
This makes it great for people with allergies and for those who are currently taking other medications. Liquid applicators can help folks suffering from hair loss revive their crowning glories without compromising their medical conditions or causing unpleasant interactions with their other medications.
Best to check in with your dermatologist as well before applying that topical vitamin. Remember, you can still also develop what we call "contact dermatitis" - a type of reaction to certain ingredients in products applied directly onto the skin.
Vitamins are generally good for health. However, there are times when people tend to take more than what is prescribed in hopes of achieving a faster result, which may do more harm than good. Although the dosage may vary from person to person, it is best to take only what is prescribed to ensure your safety.
Taking too much of these vitamins can also be toxic to the body. As a guide, you can check the list of recommended dosages for vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients through the Philippine Dietary Reference Intakes (PDRI) provided by the Food and Nutrition Research Institute (FNRI).
If you are still confused, it is best to purchase hair vitamins from a trusted brand. In this case, you can guarantee that the product is authentic and safe. You can also consider the store where you would like to purchase the item. For virtual shopping, you can go to flagship stores or ones that have high ratings and good reviews.
Remember that even though supplements have an FDA seal of approval, the more important question is do you need it and will it benefit you? If the answer to the question above is "Yes!", then it's good to ask your doctor, nutritionist, or friendly board-certified dermatologist for their tried and tested brands.
There has been so much buzz around Nutrafol since it came into the hair growth scene in 2016. In fact, it has garnered an Allure Best of Beauty Breakthrough award, making it one of the go-to treatments for hair loss. This formula has everything you’ll need for increasing hair growth and thicknessーcollagen, saw palmetto, biotin, curcumin, and more!
One of its strengths is its ability to go beyond the hair follicle and rebalance the body to encourage the growth of thick, healthy hair. By neutralizing free radicals, it helps to build resistance to stress, which is often a major factor in falling hair and baldness. Studies made on this product even show that it improves hair regrowth by as high as 80%.
Aside from addressing stress, Nutrafol targets metabolism-related hair loss, too. Thanks to the curcumin in its formulation, it’s packed with nutrients and vitamins to help relieve metabolic and inflammatory disorders that may lead to hair loss. While the price tag is definitely heftier than most other hair vitamins, all of these benefits make it all worth it.
Hair maintenance shouldn't be boring. With these bear-shaped gummies, you will enjoy every moment of taking your vitamins. These vitamins are made with necessary nutrients and minerals such as biotin, folic acid, and vitamins A and C. Biotin can keep your hair shiny by developing its keratin structure.
On the other hand, folic acid is responsible for developing healthy cells that stimulate hair growth. Aside from that, coconut oil is also incorporated in this vitamin formula. This natural and moisturizing ingredient prevents hair loss while stimulating hair follicles to grow. The vitamin content also promotes stronger and healthier tresses.
These vegan, dairy, and soy-free vitamins are trusted and recommended by different local and international artists due to their effectiveness. To name some, we have Sue Ramirez, Maris Racal, Andrea Brillantes, Arci Muñoz, and even Kylie Jenner and Kim Kardashian. Indeed, it lives up to the hype!
If you want to increase the amount of biotin in your body to promote hair growth, these are the perfect vitamins for you. It is formulated with biotin that regenerates and multiplies skin cells, which is crucial when growing hair. It also increases energy by regulating fat and protein metabolism.
Another plus is that it can help restore your overall skin condition. In a tropical country like the Philippines, the sun can be too harsh on the skin, leading to dryness and damage. This vitamin can do the extra job of nourishing your skin and reducing dryness as well.
The best part is that these softgel capsules allow for rapid release and faster absorption. However, due to the high mcg content, it's best to consult a medical practitioner before taking these vitamins, particularly if you're pregnant.
Hair loss is one of the most common concerns for men. It is caused by various factors such as age, hormones, heredity, stress, and others. Nutrient deficiency also contributes to this condition. Fortunately, with this hair nutrition capsule, men can now bring back the beauty of their crowning glory.
This hair vitamin is made with biotin and vitamin D that develop cells to stimulate hair growth. It also contains silica and zinc to aid in the formation of connective tissues. These tissues surround the hair follicles that promote stronger hair strands. What's more, this product banks on the rich fatty acids found in saw palmetto to help support hair growth.
Whether you are suffering from early signs of baldness or simply want to maintain the thickness of your hair, it is about time to take these nutritional hair vitamins. These vitamins are specially formulated for men and will help you combat hair loss before it even persists.
When taken regularly, this beautifying nutritional supplement can improve your overall skin condition, including your hair, skin, and nails. With its new formula that utilizes a combination of Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) and horsetail extract, you can guarantee optimum nourishment for a thicker, more glorious head of hair.
MSM aids in promoting the formation of bonds at the hair follicle level, which leads to stronger strands and new hair growth. Meanwhile, horsetail extract is an antioxidant that enhances the circulation process to deliver nutrients around your body. Consequently, this process helps stimulate hair growth as well.
The silica content of horsetail extract also rejuvenates the hair by keeping it shiny and strong. If you want to improve the health of your hair, nails, and skin without taking different kinds of vitamins, this all-in-one supplement tablet will do wonders for you.
Moroccan oil, also known as argan oil, is widely used in various skincare products. It offers additional beautifying effects such as protecting the skin from the sun, treating skin with acne, decreasing skin oiliness, and more. Thus, it also improves hair condition with its fatty acid content that helps rejuvenate the damaged scalp.
Once the damage is healed, this gives an extra shine to the hair while simultaneously moisturizing it. Moreover, its key nutrients, such as biotin and other vitamins, help you get strong, smooth, and lustrous hair. This is perfect for folks who want to improve not only their hair condition but also their overall skin appearance.
Naturally-made products always have an extra appeal to consumers. This hair vitamin made with all-natural ingredients will upgrade your hair condition with its 11 hair nutritional components that strengthen and revitalize hair and scalp.
This combo of natural ingredients reduces the chance of having allergic reactions since it is free from toxins and harmful chemicals that may improve your hair condition but have an adverse reaction on your body. Some of the beneficial components you'll find in this formulation are vitamins A, C, D, E, B6, B12, pantothenic acid, iodine, zinc, folic acid, and biotin.
You can guarantee that this product is safe and effective because it is scientifically formulated by nutritional experts. When it comes to taste, this gummy has no artificial additives, just a yummy, natural cherry flavor. This is perfect for those who would like to keep their skin and hair healthy while enjoying a fruity healthy treat.
Sevich is one of the most popular brands for hair care in the country because of their great performance and affordable prices. This hair vitamin is intended to nurse back to health hair that's been damaged by chemical treatment. If you've had your hair color- or heat-treated and are struggling with dryness as a result, this is worth a try.
Packed with nourishing Moroccan argan oil and sunflower oil, this product nourishes colored hair with fatty acids and helps it regain its shine. Users love how it reduces roughness and split ends, as well as how light their hair feels after a few applications.
With the compact structure of tablets, they do not dissolve easily once taken, unlike capsules. However, this innovative product defies the perception about tablets with its quick dissolve property. This attribute makes it easier to break down in the body.
The formulation contains biotin and B vitamins that aid in protein and carbohydrate production. These elements also help improve metabolism. Also, the B vitamin content fuels you with more energy throughout the day. Unlike other tablets, this vitamin is more flavorful with its natural strawberry taste.
Since tablets are more concentrated, taking only one vitamin per serving will be enough to supply your body with the necessary nutrients. That said, a bottle of these vitamins could last longer than those that require two capsules or gummies per serving, saving you more money in the process.
Allergies shouldn't stop you from treating your hair. This next one on the list requires a direct application that deeply penetrates hair strands. It is composed of Moroccan argan oil that nourishes and protects hair from damage caused by chemically-made products.
The liquid solution is housed in a jelly-like capsule that contains 1ml of liquid hair vitamin. To use this product, cut the capsule and pour the solution onto your palm. Apply it evenly on shampooed or half-dried hair avoiding the scalp. Use only one capsule per day.
This product makes the perfect companion for those who have medical conditions such as allergies and others who are taking different forms of medications. If you are one of them, this hair vitamin is best for you because you do not have to ingest itーsimply apply it onto your locks for that added shine!
Here are some helpful tips as Dr. Katrina answers some of the most asked questions from the internet!
Remember, a well-balanced diet is sufficient to get all your required nutrients (biotin included!). Thus, since clinical trials of the utility of biotin supplementation for healthy people are still in the air and at the same time no studies specific for breastfeeding were done for hair vitamins, it's better to just stick to a well-balanced diet.
However, if you feel you're not getting enough of the right nutrients, make sure to consult your doctor!
As of yet, there is no sufficient evidence to say that biotin has any effect on weight.
Our diet is the most important source of nutrients for our overall health (skin, hair, and nails included!). While dietary supplements can be used as an add-on to one's diet, it's typically only required for those who are deficient in certain vitamins or minerals. Consult with a doctor is key before starting any of those supplements. Remember, safety first!
Although hair vitamins can significantly improve your hair condition, you might need more products to keep your tresses healthy. These articles below showcase some hair essentials that will make your locks even more beautiful.
Author: E. Hubilla
Re-editor: R. Umlas
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
When you purchase products mentioned in the article, part of the sales may be returned to mybest.
The descriptions of each product is referenced from the content available from the manufacturer, e-commerce sites etc.
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