Everyone suggests biotin for hair growth – it’s good, but I’m a pharmacist and also recommend a ‘vital’ supplement
AN underrated dietary supplement can promote significant hair growth, according to an expert.
She shared must-try tips for visibly improving the health of tresses.
Carolina Goncalves is the Superintendent Pharmacist at Pharmica, a UK-based online prescription service.
Speaking to The U.S. Sun, she shared advice for encouraging hair growth.
SUPER SUPPLEMENTS
Goncalves revealed a selection of the best supplements that support hair health.
“Zinc supports follicle health and the production of keratin, a key protein in hair growth,” she said.
“Furthermore, zinc promotes cell reproduction and tissue growth, which are vital for robust hair development.
“Secondly, biotin is also a widely used supplement for hair growth.
“Biotin is an essential B vitamin necessary for keratin production and promoting cell growth and repair, all of which are crucial for maintaining a healthy hair structure.”
She said vitamin D can be useful for maintaining hair density as it helps to create new follicles in the scalp.
Meanwhile, iron helps red blood cells carry oxygen to cells, which is “vital” for healthy hair growth and repair.
“Collagen powder provides amino acids that are used to build hair and might potentially help prevent damage to hair follicles from free radicals, as it is a potent antioxidant,” she added.
TOPICAL TREATMENTS
Goncalves said many people swear by natural remedies such as rosemary, castor, and virgin coconut oil for hair growth.
Their antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties help with irritation and dandruff creating an “optimal environment” for hair growth.
They can be gently massaged into the scalp.
“However, scientific research surrounding these methods is limited,” she said.
“Instead, I would recommend clinically proven treatments such as finasteride, suitable only for men, or minoxidil which is suitable for all genders as a topical hair loss treatment.”
What causes hair loss?
Goncalves said genetics is the most common cause of male and female pattern baldness.
She revealed three other factors that can trigger hair loss:
“Menopause, which contributes to hair thinning in women,” she said.
“Certain diseases such as alopecia, where the immune system accidentally attacks hair follicles.
“A lack of nutrition resulting in a deficiency in the intake of certain vitamins and minerals closely linked to hair health, such as vitamin D (integral for hair follicle growth) and iron (vital for producing hair cell protein).”
STYLE SAVERS
Goncalves said improving hair health can boost confidence and she’s helped “countless” patients reduce their thinning using clinically proven methods.
She recommended opting for hairstyles that don’t pull tightly to keep tresses full.
“Tight hairstyles can contribute to hair loss due to a condition known as traction alopecia,” she said.
“This condition arises when there is excessive, prolonged tension on the hair roots from hairstyles that pull the hair tightly, such as tight ponytails, braids, cornrows, or buns.
“Such hairstyles cause the base of the hair follicles to be pulled, which can disrupt the normal growth cycle of hair and result in weaker hair roots.”
She said hair growth times vary depending on the treatment used.
“For instance, Regaine for Men and Regaine for Women can show results 12 to 24 weeks after use to observe hair regrowth,” she said.
“Other treatments, like Finasteride for male hair loss, can take up to 6 months to take effect, beginning with the shedding of dead hair before new hair begins to grow.”