Dr. Justin Rome, the founder of the Barber Surgeons Guild and a specialist in hair restoration, states that he has had several conversations with patients over the years about supplements and whether or not they can help treat hair loss.
When looking for hair loss treatments, Rome continues, “it is impossible to avoid running into a variety of supplements and their aggressive claims.”
Recent discoveries, however, suggest that these claims might be true to some extent.
The comprehensive analysis
Nutritional supplements may be helpful in treating some people with hair loss, according to Trusted Source, which was based on 30 studies and published online in JAMA Dermatology on November 30.
Researchers intended to assess and compile information on dietary and nutritional therapy for treating hair loss.
However, a variety of disorders, such as vitamin deficiency, can cause hair loss.
For instance, those with anemia and low iron levels can be balding and need a supplement. However, the authors wanted to look at how well supplement therapy performed in people who had no known deficiencies.
There were three databases used. Between the inception of the database through October 20, 2021, they searched for any English-language research on dietary and nutritional therapies for people with hair loss or alopecia.
The writers ultimately decided to include 30 papers. After then, in the first few days of January 2022, they assessed the accuracy of the data.
Several supplements, including capsaicin, omega 3 and 6 with antioxidants, zinc, and pumpkin seed oil, gave the best evidence for supplements for hair loss, according to their review.
Vitamin D and kimchi had the lowest quality of evidence that they could stop hair loss.
The researchers found that adverse effects were rare and mild for each therapy they looked at.
After discovering evidence in their research that nutritional supplements may have a role in treating hair loss, the authors urged physicians to participate in shared decision-making talks regarding the possible risks and benefits.
