Can supplements stop hair loss?

Now that you’re familiar with some of the common underlying health issues that can contribute to hair health issues, let’s get constructive. Luckily, there are a ton of things you can do to improve hair loss, including taking supplements that help correct the nutrient deficiencies knocking your nervous system and hormones out of balance. Here are some of the best supplements for hair loss.

1. Biotin 

Biotin, also known as vitamin B7, is one of the best supplements for hair loss as it is largely responsible for the health of your hair, skin, and nails. Biotin is even referred to as “vitamin H,” which is derived from the German words “Haut” and “Haar,” which mean skin and hair. I recommend taking a mix of B vitamins — which you can find in a B-complex supplement — as they work synergistically to improve hair health and other aspects of health.  Although it’s a great powerhouse for anyone, a B-complex is one of the best supplements for hair growth for men specifically.

2. Ashwagandha 

You’ve probably heard chatter about ashwagandha already. It’s extremely trendy at the moment — but it’s for a good reason! This adaptogenic herb works directly on the HPA axis, which controls your stress response and regulates your stress hormone production.

3. Pearl 

Pear is another adaptogen. And while lesser known than ashwagandha, pearl is a great source of amino acids to help nourish hair, skin, and nails. This is thanks to an ingredient called conchiolin, which is what gives pearls their luminescence. Conchiolin has similar effects to keratin – a protein found in your skin and hair – and improves metabolism, increases circulation, and repairs damaged cells. Pearl powder has at least 30 trace minerals, along with silica which is great for supporting hair health and selenium which is very important for healthy thyroid hormones.

4. Collagen

Collagen is one of the most abundant proteins in your body and is found in connective tissue, including our skin and cartilage as well as nails and hair. Collagen is made up of three important amino acids (glycine, proline, and hyroxyproline) and each is produced in our body naturally but not at sufficient levels. For example, we require around 15 grams of glycine per day, but most of us only get 3 grams per day from our modern diet, so supplementation can be extremely beneficial for longer, healthier hair.

5. Holy Basil 

Also known as Tulsi, Holy Basil is one of my favorite adaptogens. It is also one of the best-researched herbs for hair loss! One particular study (1) showed how holy basil can be a useful treatment for hair loss problems like alopecia. In the study tulsi promoted more hair growth naturally, compared to the control group which used a medication with many potential negative side effects.

Holy Bail’s strong properties are one of the reasons why I developed Holi(youth): The Calming Oceanic Adaptogen to be a key part of my clean beauty line, Agent Nateur. We formulated this powder with holy basil (as well as marine collagen and pearl) along with nutrient-dense spirulina to promote healthy hair and skin as well as calming stress which, as we've seen, can negatively impact your hair. 

Because I have seen firsthand how many people struggle with hair thinning and loss I wanted to formulate supplements that addressed the root of these problems. Two of my other co-branded products with Agent Nateur - holi ( m a n e ) and holi ( r a d i a n c e ) combine some of my top clinically researched nutrients to target hair loss from the inside out.

holi ( m a n e ) combines two daily powerhouse super foods mentioned above: marine collagen and pearl powder. This odorless and nearly tasteless blend is abundant in over 30 trace minerals, including silica, magnesium, calcium and potassium that support optimal hair, skin and nail health. Bioavailable amino acids activate hair, skin and nail cells to produce collagen, promote cellular repair and hydration. Nacre, a natural compound in pearl powder, stimulates collagen to regenerate. The synergy of this nutrient-dense blend also supports the increase of two important antioxidants, glutathione and superoxide dismutase, both essential for cell vitality. 

holi ( r a d i a n c e ) is formulated with OptiMSM® is a high-grade antioxidant that is often used to help build keratin and collagen for healthy hair, skin and nails. We chose to combine it with a highly concentrated source of phytoceramides that contain a booster of efficacy: digalactosyl diglycerides (DGDG) When aging, we start losing ceramides, resulting in tight, dry skin, pulling sensations and wrinkles. Together, these two nutrients take beauty from the inside-out one step further for stronger, healthier hair, and glowing, youthful skin.

Extra tips for supporting healthy hair

Aside from trying these supplements for hair loss, another thing you can do to promote healthy hair is giving yourself regular scalp massages. Promoting circulation and blood flow to the scalp can stimulate hair follicles that may be inhibited or unhealthy. You can massage your scalp with your fingers each night and every time you wash your hair, or purchase a scalp massager. Either way, show your scalp some love every day — your hair will thank you! 

Choosing the right supplements for your unique needs

Hair loss and thinning hair can be shocking, nerve-wrecking, and frustrating. But as you can see, it’s important to stay calm! Focus on showing your nervous system and hormones some love. 

When looking for the root cause of your hair loss and deciding which supplements to implement it’s important to consult a doctor. I see in my clinic all the time that getting to the root cause can re-stimulate hair regrowth for healthier, thicker hair. 

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