Dietary supplements against hair loss: what really works

Hair loss: what really works

Chapter 1: Understanding of hair loss: Causes and types

Hair loss, or alopecia, is a common problem that affects millions of people around the world. Before considering the effectiveness of dietary supplements (biologically active additives), it is necessary to understand the variety of causes and types of hair loss. This understanding will help to determine whether dietary supplement can be useful in a particular case and which one.

1. 1 Androgenetic alopecia (aha): The most common form, also known as baldness by male or female type. Genetic predisposition and hormonal factors play a key role. In men, it is usually observed thinning of the hair in the forehead and crown, forming a characteristic m-shaped line. In women, hair loss usually occurs more evenly throughout the head, with the expansion of the parting. Dihydrotestosterone (DGT) is an androgen, which plays a significant role in the development of aha. DGT binds to hair follicles, eventually reducing their size and duration of the hair growth phase (anagen). This process leads to the fact that the hair becomes thinner, in short and ultimately stop growing. Genes encoding androgens coding, 5-alpha reductase enzyme (transforming testosterone into DGT) and other factors affecting the sensitivity of hair follicles to androgens can affect the degree of aga development.

2. 2 Telogene loss (TE): Temporary hair loss that occurs after a stressful event. Stressors can be physical (illness, operation, childbirth, sharp weight loss) or emotional (severe stress, anxiety). In the normal cycle of hair growth (anagen, catagen, bodyogen), most hair follicles are in the anagen phase (growth). TE occurs when a significant number of hair follicles prematurely passes into the heterogene phase (rest). A few months after the stress event, these hair falls out, causing a temporary but noticeable thinning of the hair. TE is usually allowed independently when hair follicles return to the normal growth cycle. However, chronic TE can last more than six months and can be associated with constant stressors or other basic reasons.

3. 3 Focal alopecia (AA): Autoimmune disease, in which the body’s immune system erroneously attacks hair follicles. This leads to hair loss in the form of separate spots on the head or other parts of the body. The causes of AA have not fully studied, but the genetic predisposition and environmental factors can play a role. The severity of the AA can vary from small spots until the hair on the head (alopecia Totalis) or throughout the body (alopecia universalis) can vary. AA treatment is aimed at suppressing the immune system and stimulation of hair growth. Talking methods of treatment include corticosteroids (local or injection), minoxidil and immunotherapy.

4. 4 Alopecia: Caused by constant tension or pressure on the hair. The common causes include tight hairstyles (tails, braids, bundles), hair extensions and frequent use of tight rubber bands. Constant tension can damage the hair follicles, leading to thinning of the hair and loss. At first, traction alopecia can be reversible if you stop practices that cause it. However, if the tension lasts for a long time, damage to the hair follicles can become irreversible. Prevention includes the avoidance of tight hairstyles, the use of more sparing styling methods and the choice of hairstyles that do not provide excessive pressure on the hair.

5. 5 Cicatricial alopecia (cycatric alopecia): A group of rare states in which inflammation destroys hair follicles and replaces them with cicatricial fabric. This leads to irreversible hair loss in the affected areas. Riceps alopecia can be caused by various factors, including autoimmune diseases, infections, injuries and genetic disorders. Diagnosis usually requires scalp biopsy to determine the type of inflammation and the degree of damage to hair follicles. Treatment is aimed at suppressing inflammation and preventing further damage to the hair follicles. Unfortunately, damaged hair follicles cannot be restored, and hair loss is constant.

6. 6 Nutrient deficiency: The lack of certain vitamins and minerals can contribute to hair loss. Iron, zinc, biotin, vitamin D and indispensable fatty acids play an important role in hair health. Iron deficiency, for example, is a common cause of hair loss, especially in women. Iron is necessary for the production of hemoglobin, which transfers oxygen to hair follicles. Zinc deficiency can also lead to hair loss, since zinc is involved in many cellular processes, including hair growth. Biotin, vitamin B, is often advertised as a remedy for hair loss, although biotin deficiency is rare. Vitamin D is important for regulating the hair growth cycle. Ezmoga-3 and omega-6 are irreplaceable fatty acids, such as the health of the scalp and hair of hair. Maintaining a balanced diet rich in these nutrients can help prevent hair loss caused by deficiency. However, taking high doses of vitamins and minerals without consulting a doctor can be harmful.

7. 7 Other reasons: Drugs (chemotherapy, antidepressants, anticoagulants), thyroid diseases, hormonal changes (pregnancy, menopause), skin diseases (psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis) can also cause hair loss. Chemotherapy, for example, often causes hair loss, since it affects rapidly dividing cells, including cells of hair follicles. Diseases of the thyroid gland, such as hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, can disrupt the hair growth cycle. Hormonal changes during pregnancy and menopause can lead to temporary hair loss. Skin diseases, such as psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis, can cause inflammation and damage to the scalp, which leads to hair loss. Identification and treatment of the main cause of hair loss is an important step in solving this problem.

Chapter 2: The main ingredients of hair dietary supplements: scientific data

Many hair dietary supplements promise to stop the loss and stimulate the growth of new hair. However, not all ingredients have sufficient scientific support. It is important to understand what ingredients can really be effective, and which are only marketing tricks.

2. 1 Biotin (Vitamin B7): One of the most popular ingredients in hair dietary supplements. It is involved in the metabolism of fatty acids, amino acids and glucose. Biotin deficiency is rare, but can cause hair loss, thinning of nails and skin rashes. Studies have shown that taking biotin additives can improve hair and nail growth in people with biotin deficiency. However, there is no convincing evidence that biotin is useful for people without deficiency. Some people may experience side effects of high doses of biotin, such as skin rashes and stomach disorder. It is important to note that taking biotin additives can affect the results of some laboratory tests, in particular, on the tests of the thyroid gland. Therefore, before taking biotin additives, you need to consult a doctor.

3. 2 Iron: Iron deficiency is a common cause of hair loss, especially in women in the prelimacteric period. Iron is necessary for the production of hemoglobin, which transfers oxygen to hair follicles. Symptoms of iron deficiency include fatigue, weakness, pallor of the skin and fragility of nails. A blood test can determine the level of iron in the body and identify deficiency. Taking iron additives can improve hair growth in people with iron deficiency. However, taking too much iron can be harmful and cause side effects, such as constipation, nausea and abdominal pain. In severe cases, an overdose of iron can lead to organs. Therefore, taking iron additives should be carried out under the supervision of a doctor.

4. 3 Zinc: An important mineral involved in many cellular processes, including hair growth, tissue restoration and immune function. Zinc deficiency can cause hair loss, skin rashes and a decrease in immunity. Studies have shown that taking zinc additives can improve hair growth in people with zinc deficiency. However, taking too much zinc can be harmful and cause side effects, such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Long -term intake of high doses of zinc can lead to copper deficiency. Therefore, taking zinc additives should be carried out under the supervision of a doctor.

5. 4 Vitamin D.: Plays an important role in the regulation of the hair growth cycle. Vitamin D deficiency is associated with various types of hair loss, including heterogeneous loss and focal alopecia. Vitamin D helps stimulate the growth of hair follicles and maintain the health of the scalp. Studies have shown that taking vitamin D additives can improve hair growth in people with vitamin D deficiency. Sunlight is the main source of vitamin D, but many people do not receive enough sunlight, especially in the winter months. A blood test can determine the level of vitamin D in the body and identify deficiency. Taking vitamin D additives can be useful for people with vitamin D deficiency. However, taking too much vitamin D can be harmful and cause side effects, such as nausea, vomiting and weakness. Therefore, taking vitamin D additives should be carried out under the supervision of a doctor.

6. 5 Vitamin C.: Antioxidant, which helps to protect the hair follicles from damage by free radicals. Vitamin C is also necessary for the production of collagen, which is an important component of hair structure. Although the deficiency of vitamin C is rare, maintaining a sufficient level of vitamin C can contribute to hair health. Good sources of vitamin C include citrus fruits, berries, pepper and broccoli. Reception of vitamin C additives can be useful for people who do not get enough vitamin C from their diet.

7. 6 Vitamin E: Antioxidant, which helps to protect the hair follicles from damage by free radicals. Vitamin E also improves blood circulation in the scalp, which can contribute to hair growth. Studies have shown that taking vitamin E additives can improve hair growth in people with focal alopecia. Good sources of vitamin E include nuts, seeds, vegetable oils and green leafy vegetables. Reception of vitamin E additives can be useful for people who do not receive enough vitamin E from their diet. However, taking too much vitamin E can be harmful and cause side effects.

8. 7 Omega-3 fatty acids: Irreplaceable fatty acids that have anti -inflammatory properties and can contribute to the health of the scalp and hair growth. Omega-3 fatty acids help reduce inflammation in the scalp, which can contribute to hair growth. Good sources of omega-3 fatty acids include fatty fish (salmon, tuna, sardines), flaxseed, chia seeds and walnuts. Reception of the additives of omega-3 fatty acids can be useful for people who do not receive enough omega-3 fatty acids from their diet.

9. 8 Amino acids: Building blocks of proteins that are necessary for tissue growth and restoration, including hair. L-Lisin, L-cysteine ​​and L-metionine are important amino acids for hair health. L-Lisin helps improve the absorption of iron and plays a role in the production of collagen. L-cysteine ​​is a component of keratin, the main protein, of which the hair consists of. L-metionine is an antioxidant and helps protect hair follicles from damage. Reception of amino acid additives can be useful for people who do not receive enough amino acids from their diet.

10. 9 Saw Palmetto (Palm Extract of Sereena): Plant extract, which is believed to block the action of DHT (dihydrotestosterone), a hormone associated with androgenetic alopecia. Some studies have shown that Saw Palmetto can help reduce hair loss and improve hair growth in men with androgenetic alopecia. However, additional studies are needed to confirm these results. Saw Palmetto can cause side effects, such as stomach disorder and a decrease in libido.

11. 10 Melatonin (melatonin): A hormone that regulates the sleeping cycle. Some studies have shown that the local use of melatonin can stimulate hair growth and reduce hair loss. Melatonin has antioxidant properties and can protect hair follicles from damage. However, additional studies are needed to confirm these results.

Chapter 3: The effectiveness of dietary supplements with various types of hair loss

Now consider how various dietary supplements can be effective for specific types of hair loss based on existing scientific data.

12. 1 Androgenetic alopecia (aha): Dietary supplements containing Saw Palmetto can be useful for men with aha, since they can help block the action of DGT. However, the effectiveness of Saw Palmetto can be lower than in drugs such as finsteride. Bades containing biotin, zinc and vitamin D can be useful for people with aha who has a deficiency of these nutrients. However, if there is no deficit, the reception of these dietary supplements is unlikely to have a significant effect on hair growth. In general, dietary supplements are not the main method of treating aha, and an integrated approach is often required, including drugs and local drugs.

13. 2 Telogene loss (TE): Bades can be useful for TE treatment if hair loss is caused by a deficiency of nutrients. Bades containing iron, zinc, vitamin D and biotin can help restore the level of these nutrients and stimulate hair growth. It is also important to eliminate the basic stressors that cause TE. In most cases, TE takes place on its own for several months, when hair follicles return to the normal growth cycle.

14. 3 Focal alopecia (AA): Bades can be useful to support the overall health of hair in people with AA, but they are not the main method of treating this autoimmune disease. Bades containing vitamin D, vitamin E and omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce inflammation and support the health of the scalp. The main treatment for AA is immunosuppressive drugs, such as corticosteroids.

15. 4 Alopecia: Bades are not the main method of treating traction alopecia. The most important step is the cessation of its causing practices, such as tight hairstyles. Bades containing vitamins and minerals can help maintain hair health and stimulate their growth after tension.

16. 5 Riceps alopecia: Bades are not effective for the treatment of cicatricial alopecia, since damaged hair follicles cannot be restored. Treatment is aimed at suppressing inflammation and preventing further damage to the hair follicles.

17. 6 Nutrient deficiency: Dans can be very effective for the treatment of hair loss caused by a deficiency of nutrients. It is important to identify the deficiency using blood tests and take dietary supplements containing the missing nutrients. However, it is important not to exceed the recommended dose, since taking too much vitamins and minerals can be harmful.

Chapter 4: How to choose high -quality hair diet

A huge number of hair dietary supplements are presented on the market, and choosing a quality product may not be easy. Here are some tips that will help you make the right choice:

18. 1 Study the ingredients: Carefully study the composition of the dietary supplement and make sure that it contains the ingredients that, as proved, are effective for hair growth. Pay attention to the dosage of the ingredients and make sure that it corresponds to the recommended.

19. 2 Check the availability of certificates: Look for dietary supplements that have quality certificates from independent organizations. This guarantees that the product was tested for safety and efficiency. Examples of certificates include NSF International, USP Verified and Consumerlab.com.

20. 3 Read reviews: Read the reviews of other users to find out about their experience using this dietary supplement. However, do not rely exclusively on reviews, as they can be biased.

21. 4 Consult a doctor: Before you start taking any hair dietary supplement, you need to consult a doctor or a trichologist. They can evaluate your condition and recommend the most suitable product.

22. 5 Avoid products with unreasonable statements: Be careful with dietary supplements who promise wonderful results, such as instant hair growth or complete restoration of hair that have fallen. These statements are often not supported by scientific data.

23. 6 Pay attention to the price: The price of dietary supplements is not always an indicator of its quality. Some expensive products may contain the same ingredients as cheaper analogues. Compare the prices and composition of various dietary supplements to make the best choice.

24. 7 Check the list of ingredients for allergens: Make sure that the dietary supplement does not contain the ingredients that you are allergic to. The common allergens contained in additions include gluten, soil, dairy products and nuts.

Chapter 5: Potential risks and side effects of dietary supplements

Although dietary supplements can be useful for hair health, it is important to know about potential risks and side effects.

25. 1 Interaction with drugs: Some dietary supplements can interact with the medicines that you take. For example, vitamin K can reduce the effectiveness of anticoagulants. Therefore, before taking any dietary supplement, it is necessary to inform your doctor about all the medicines that you take.

26. 2 Overdose: Taking too large vitamins and minerals can be harmful and cause side effects. For example, an overdose of iron can lead to organs. It is important to follow the recommended dose and not exceed it.

27. 3 Allergic reactions: Some people may experience allergic reactions to certain ingredients contained in dietary supplements. Symptoms of allergies may include skin rashes, itching, swelling and difficulty breathing. If you experience any symptoms of allergies, immediately stop taking the dietary supplement and consult a doctor.

28. 4 Side effects from the gastrointestinal tract: Some dietary supplements can cause side effects from the gastrointestinal tract, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and constipation. These side effects usually take place independently, but in some cases it may be necessary to stop taking Bad.

29. 5 Low -quality products: There are many low -quality dietary supplements on the market that may contain harmful ingredients or not contain the declared ingredients. It is important to choose dietary supplements from reliable manufacturers and check the availability of quality certificates.

30. 6 Unreasonable statements: Many dietary supplements make unreasonable statements about their effectiveness. It is important to critical of these statements and verify them on the basis of scientific data. You should not rely on dietary supplements as the only method of treating hair loss.

Chapter 6: Alternative methods of treating hair loss

In addition to dietary supplements, there are many other methods of treating hair loss, which can be more effective.

31. 1 Minoxidil (Rogaine): A local remedy that stimulates hair growth and slows down hair loss. Minoxidil is available in the form of a solution or foam and applied to the scalp twice a day. Minoxidil is effective for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia and focal alopecia. Side effects can include scalp irritation and undesirable hair growth on the face.

32. 2 Finsteride (propecia): A drug that blocks the effect of DGT (digidrotestosterone), a hormone associated with androgenetic alopecia. Finasteride is taken orally once a day. Finasteride is effective for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia in men. Side effects may include a decrease in libido, erectile dysfunction and depression. Finasteride is contraindicated in women of childbearing age.

33. 3 Low -level laser therapy (LLLT): The treatment method that uses laser light to stimulate hair growth. LLLT is available in the form of laser combs, helmets and devices for the scalp. LLLT can be effective for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia and focal alopecia. Side effects are rare.

34. 4 Hair transplant: Surgical treatment method, which includes a transplantation of hair follicles from the donor region to areas with hair loss. Hair transplant is an effective method of treating androgenetic alopecia. The results of hair transplants can be constant.

35. 5 Injections of corticosteroids: Used to treat focal alopecia. Corticosteroids are introduced directly into the affected areas of the scalp. Corticosteroids help reduce inflammation and stimulate hair growth.

36. 6 Therapy enriched with platelet platelets (PRP): The treatment method, which includes the injection of the patient’s own plasma enriched with platelets, into the scalp. PRP contains growth factors that can stimulate hair growth.

37. 7 Ketoconazol shampoo: Antifungal shampoo, which can help reduce the scalp and stimulate hair growth. Ketoconazol shampoo is often used to treat seborrheic dermatitis, which can contribute to hair loss.

38. 8 A healthy lifestyle: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular physical exercises and stress management, can contribute to hair health.

39. 9 Essential oils: Some essential oils, such as rosemary oil, lavender oil and cedar oil, can stimulate hair growth. Essential oils must be diluted with basic oil, such as coconut oil or jojoba oil, before applying to the scalp.

Chapter 7: Diet and lifestyle for healthy hair

Regardless of whether you accept dietary supplements or not, diet and lifestyle play an important role in the health of your hair.

40. 1 Balanced diet: Make sure that you get a sufficient amount of protein, iron, zinc, vitamins and other nutrients necessary for the health of the hair. Include products rich in these nutrients in your diet, such as meat, fish, eggs, dairy products, nuts, seeds, fruits and vegetables.

41. 2 Sufficient water consumption: Drink enough water to maintain hydration of the body and scalp. Dehydration can lead to dry hair and brittle hair.

42. 3 Stress management: Chronic stress can contribute to hair loss. Find the ways to cope with stress, such as yoga, meditation, walking in nature or communication with friends and family.

43. 4 Hair handling: Avoid tight hairstyles, excessive hair heating and chemical treatment, which can damage the hair. Use soft shampoo and air conditioning designed for your hair type.

44. 5 Sun protection: Protect the hair and scalp from the sun, wearing a hat or using a sunglable hair spray.

45. 6 Refusal of smoking: Smoking can worsen blood circulation in the scalp and contribute to hair loss.

46. 7 Regular sleep: Get enough sleep to give the body time to restore and regeneration.

Chapter 8: debunking myths about hair loss

There are many myths about hair loss that can mislead people. It is important to distinguish between truth and fiction in order to make reasonable decisions on treatment.

47. 1 Myth: hair loss is transmitted only on the maternal line: True: genes associated with hair loss can be transmitted both by maternal and paternal line.

48. 2 Myth: Wearing a hat causes hair loss: True: wearing a hat does not cause hair loss, if it is not too tight and does not provide constant pressure on the scalp.

49. 3 Myth: Frequent hair washing causes hair loss: True: frequent hair washing does not cause hair loss. It is important to wash your hair as necessary to remove excess fat and pollution.

50. 4 Myth: Hair haircut stimulates their growth: True: hair haircut does not affect hair growth rate. She only removes the split ends and gives her hair a healthier look.

51. 5 Myth: hair loss is only a problem for men: True: women can also experience hair loss, especially with age.

52. 6 Myth: hair loss is a sign of poor health: True: hair loss can be caused by various factors that are not always associated with poor health. However, if hair loss is accompanied by other symptoms such as fatigue, weakness or weight loss, you must consult a doctor.

Chapter 9: The future of hair loss research

Studies in the field of hair loss are ongoing, and scientists are constantly looking for new and more effective methods of treatment.

53. 1 Gene therapy: Gene therapy can be a promising method of treating androgenetic alopecia. It may include the introduction of genes that stimulate hair growth or block the action of DGT.

54. 2 Cell therapy: Cell therapy can be used to restore damaged hair follicles. It may include a transplant of stem cells that can differentiate into new hair follicles.

55. 3 New drugs: Pharmaceutical companies are developing new drugs for the treatment of hair loss. These drugs can affect various mechanisms associated with hair loss.

56. 4 Improved diagnostics: New methods of diagnosis of hair loss are developed, which can help identify the cause of hair loss at an early stage.

57. 5 Personalized medicine: The future treatment of hair loss can be associated with personalized medicine, which takes into account the genetic characteristics and lifestyle of each person.

Chapter 10: Legal aspects of the sale and advertising of dietary supplements

Bades are regulated less strictly than drugs. This means that dietary supplement manufacturers are not required to prove the efficiency and safety of their products before it was putting on the market. Therefore, it is important to be attentive when choosing dietary supplements and check the information provided by manufacturers.

58. 1 Bad regulation: In most countries, dietary supplements are regulated as food products, and not as drugs. This means that they do not undergo strict clinical trials necessary for drugs.

59. 2 Marking requirements: Bades manufacturers are required to indicate the composition of the product on the label, the expiration date and information about the manufacturer. They are also required to indicate that dietary supplements are not intended for the diagnosis, treatment or prevention of any disease.

60. 3 Advertising restrictions: Advertising of dietary supplements should be true and not mislead consumers. Manufacturers are prohibited from making unreasonable statements about their products.

61. 4 Responsibility of the manufacturer: Dad manufacturers are responsible for the safety of their products. If dietary supplements have caused harm to the health of the consumer, the manufacturer can be held accountable.

62. 5 The role of the consumer: Consumers should be careful when choosing dietary supplements and check the information provided by the manufacturers. It is important to consult a doctor before taking any dietary supplements.

Chapter 11: The effect of ethnicity and hair type on dietary supplements

Ethnicity and type of hair can affect the effectiveness of dietary supplements. Different ethnic groups can have different genetic predispositions to hair loss and different needs for nutrients.

63. 1 African hair: African hair, as a rule, is more dry and brittle than European or Asian hair. They are also more susceptible to damage from heat treatment and chemical treatment. Bades containing biotin, vitamin E and omega-3 fatty acids can be useful for strengthening and moisturizing African hair.

64. 2 Asian hair: Asian hair, as a rule, is thicker and more durable than European or African hair. They are also less susceptible to damage from the sun. Bades containing zinc and iron can be useful for stimulating the growth of Asian hair.

65. 3 European hair: European hair occupies an intermediate position between African and Asian hair. They can be dry, fat or normal. Bades containing vitamin D and vitamin C can be useful for maintaining the health of European hair.

66. 4 Type of hair: The type of hair (straight, wavy, curly) can also affect the effectiveness of dietary supplements. For example, curly hair, as a rule, is more dry than straight hair, and may require more moisturizing ingredients.

67. 5 Individual characteristics: It is important to consider the individual characteristics of each person when choosing dietary supplements. What works for one person may not work for another.

Chapter 12: Bades and pregnancy/breastfeeding

Reception of dietary supplements during pregnancy and breastfeeding requires special caution. Many dietary supplements contain ingredients that can be harmful to the fetus or child.

68. 1 Consultation with a doctor: Before taking any dietary supplements during pregnancy or breastfeeding, it is necessary to consult a doctor.

69. 2 Safe ingredients: Some vitamins and minerals, such as folic acid and iron, are necessary during pregnancy. However, it is important to take them in recommended doses.

70. 3 Avoid herbs: Many herbs contained in dietary supplements can be harmful during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Avoid taking dietary supplements containing herbs without consulting a doctor.

71. 4 Quality: Choose dietary supplements from reliable manufacturers and check for quality certificates.

72. 5 Individual needs: Your nutrient needs can