Section 1: Understanding hair loss and the role of dietary supplements
1.1 Hair growth cycles and factors affecting them
Hair is a complex structure growing in cyclic mode. This cycle consists of three main phases:
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Anagen (growth phase): This phase lasts from 2 to 7 years and determines the length of the hair. About 85-90% of the hair on the head is in the anagen phase. The cells of the hair follicle are actively divided, forming a new hair. The duration of the anagen is influenced by genetic factors, general health and hormonal background.
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Katagen (transition phase): This phase is short, lasts about 2-3 weeks. At this time, hair growth slows down and stops, the follicle is reduced. About 1-2% of the hair is in Katagen. The blood supply to the follicle decreases, which leads to a gradual stop of growth.
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Telogen (Phase Salm): The resting phase lasts about 3 months. The hair remains in the follicle, but does not grow. About 10-15% of the hair is in the quilted jacket. At the end of the heterogene, the hair falls out, and in its place the new hair in the anagen phase begins to grow.
Violation of the normal cycle of hair growth can lead to their loss. The factors affecting the growth cycle include:
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Genetics: Androgenetic alopecia (male baldness) is a hereditary disease associated with increased sensitivity of hair follicles to dihydrotestosterone (DGT). Women can also have an androgenetic alopecia, but it usually manifests itself in the form of thinning of hair, and not complete baldness.
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Hormones: Hormonal changes, such as pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, thyroid diseases, ovarian polycystic ovarian (SPKU), can cause hair loss. Hormonal imbalance can affect the hair growth cycle, reducing the anagen phase and lengthening the heterogene phase.
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Stress: Chronic stress can lead to hair loss according to the type of teenelic alopecia, when a large amount of hair simultaneously passes into the bodyogen phase and falls after a few months.
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Inal meals: The lack of vitamins, minerals and protein can adversely affect the health of the hair and lead to its loss. Hair needs nutrients for normal growth and maintenance of the structure.
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Diseases: Some diseases, such as autoimmune diseases (for example, an area of an area), infectious diseases (for example, fungal scalp infections), thyroid diseases, anemia, and can cause hair loss.
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Medicines: Some drugs, for example, antidepressants, anticoagulants, medicines for treating blood pressure, chemotherapeutic drugs, can cause hair loss as a side effect.
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External factors: Traumatic hair damage, for example, frequent use of a hairdryer, ironing, chemical curling, coloring, can lead to damage to the structure of the hair and their loss. Also, tight hairstyles, for example, braids, tails, can cause traction alopecia.
1.2. Bades: What is it and how they work for hair health?
Biologically active additives (dietary supplements) are concentrates of biologically active substances intended for direct intake with food or introduction into food products. Bades are not drugs and are not intended for the treatment of diseases. They are designed to replenish the deficiency of nutrients, maintain health and improve the general condition of the body.
In the context of hair health, dietary supplements may contain vitamins, minerals, amino acids, plant extracts and other substances that are necessary for normal hair growth and health. They can work as follows:
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Filling a deficiency of nutrients: Bades can replenish the deficiency of vitamins, minerals and other nutrients that are necessary for the growth and health of hair. For example, a deficiency of iron, zinc, biotin, vitamin D can lead to hair loss.
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Improving blood circulation in the scalp: Some dietary supplements contain substances that improve blood circulation in the scalp, which ensures the delivery of nutrients and oxygen to hair follicles. For example, ginkgo biloba extract.
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Protection against oxidative stress: Oxidative stress is damage to cells with free radicals. Some dietary supplements contain antioxidants that protect hair follicles from damage to free radicals. For example, vitamin C, vitamin E, selenium.
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Hormonal balance regulation: Some dietary supplements contain substances that help regulate the hormonal balance, which can be useful when hair loss associated with hormonal disorders. For example, Sabal Palmetto, zinc.
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Strengthening the structure of the hair: Some dietary supplements contain substances that strengthen the hair structure, making them stronger and more elastic. For example, keratin, collagen, silicon.
1.3. The importance of consulting with a specialist before admitting dietary supplements.
Before taking any dietary supplements, especially in the presence of diseases or taking drugs, it is necessary to consult a doctor or a trichologist. The specialist will be able to assess the state of health, identify possible contraindications and choose the most suitable dietary supplement, taking into account individual needs. Self -medication can be dangerous to health. Some dietary supplements can interact with drugs or cause side effects. It is also important to consider that dietary supplements are not medicines and cannot replace full treatment.
Section 2: Key ingredients in hair dietary supplements and their action
2.1 B vitamins B (BIOTIN, B5, B12)
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Biotin (Vitamin B7 or Vitamin H): Biotin is an important vitamin for the health of hair, skin and nails. It is involved in the metabolism of fats, carbohydrates and proteins necessary for cell growth, including cells of hair follicles. Biotin deficiency can lead to hair loss, fragility of nails and dry skin. Biotin helps strengthen the structure of the hair, increase their thickness and shine. The recommended daily dose of biotin is 30-100 μg.
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Pantotenic acid (vitamin B5): Pantotenic acid is involved in the metabolism of fats, carbohydrates and proteins, as well as in the synthesis of hormones and cholesterol. It is necessary for the normal functioning of hair follicles and hair growth. Pantotenic acid helps to moisturize the hair, improve their elasticity and prevent brittleness. It can also help reduce hair loss associated with stress.
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CianoCobalamine (Vitamin B12): Vitamin B12 is necessary for the normal functioning of the nervous system and hematopoiesis. It is involved in the formation of red blood cells, which cause oxygen and nutrients to hair follicles. Vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to anemia, weakness, fatigue and hair loss. Vitamin B12 also helps to strengthen the structure of the hair and improve its shine.
2.2 minerals (zinc, iron, selenium)
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Zinc: Zinc is an important mineral for hair health. It is involved in the synthesis of proteins, including keratin, the main protein of which the hair consists of. Zinc is also necessary for the normal functioning of the sebaceous glands of the scalp, which produce skin lard, moisturizing hair and scalp. Zinc deficiency can lead to hair loss, dry scalp and dandruff. Zinc also has antioxidant properties, protecting the hair follicles from damage to free radicals.
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Iron: Iron is necessary for the formation of hemoglobin, protein in red blood cells, which transfers oxygen throughout the body. Iron deficiency can lead to anemia, weakness, fatigue and hair loss. Hair follicles require enough oxygen for normal growth and functioning. With iron deficiency, hair follicles may not receive enough oxygen, which leads to a slowdown in hair growth and their loss.
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Selenium: Selenium is an important mineral with antioxidant properties. It protects the cells from damage by free radicals. Selenium is also necessary for the normal functioning of the thyroid gland, which plays an important role in hair growth. Selena deficiency can lead to hair loss and other health problems. Selenium also participates in the synthesis of selenoproteins, which play an important role in the growth and development of hair follicles.
2.3 amino acids (L-cysteine, l Lizin)
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L-Cistein: L-cysteine is a sulfur-containing amino acid, which is an important component of keratin, the main protein of which the hair consists of. L-cysteine helps to strengthen the structure of the hair, increase their thickness and elasticity. He can also help protect the hair from damage to free radicals and ultraviolet radiation.
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L-Lisin: L-lysine is an indispensable amino acid that the body cannot synthesize independently. It is necessary for the synthesis of collagen, another important protein for hair health. Collagen helps strengthen the structure of the hair and give it elasticity. L-Lisin also participates in the assimilation of iron, which is necessary for normal hair growth. L-lyzine deficiency can lead to hair loss and other health problems.
2.4 Plant extracts (Sabal palmetto, horsetail)
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Sabal Palmetto (Serenoa Repens): Sabal Palmetto is an extract from the fruits of the dwarf palm. It is used to treat benign prostate hyperplasia (DGPZ) in men. Sabal Palmetto can also be useful for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia (male baldness) in men and women. It blocks the enzyme 5-alpha reductase, which turns testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DGT), a hormone that promotes hair loss with androgenetic alopecia.
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Horsetail (Equisetum arvest): Field horsetail is a plant rich in silicon. Silicon is an important mineral for the health of hair, skin and nails. It helps to strengthen the structure of the hair, increase their thickness and elasticity. Field horsetail also contains antioxidants that protect the hair follicles from damage to free radicals.
2.5 other useful ingredients (collagen, keratin)
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Collagen: Collagen is the main structural protein in the body. It provides the strength and elasticity of the skin, joints, bones and hair. Collagen helps strengthen the structure of the hair, increase their thickness and shine. It can also help reduce hair loss and stimulate their growth.
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Keratin: Keratin is the main protein of which the hair consists of. It provides strength and elasticity of the hair. Keratin as part of dietary supplements can help restore the damaged hair structure, strengthen them and give them shine.
Section 3: Rating of the best hair dietary supplements (with a detailed analysis)
3.1 Criteria for evaluating dietary supplements
When compiling the rating of the best hair dietary supplements, the following criteria were taken into account:
- Composition: The content of key ingredients in optimal dosages. The presence of clinically confirmed components.
- Efficiency: The presence of positive consumer reviews and research results. Visible results after the course of admission.
- Safety: Lack of side effects and contraindications. The presence of quality and conformity certificates.
- Price: The ratio of price and quality. Accessibility of the product.
- Reputation manufacturer: The reliability and experience of the manufacturer. The presence of a positive reputation in the market.
- Output form: Convenience of admission (capsules, tablets, powder). Taste (if applicable).
3.2 TOP-10 hair dietary supplements (with a detailed description of each)
Important: This rating is subjective and is based on public information and consumer reviews. Before taking any dietary supplement, you need to consult a doctor or a trichologist. Dosages and recommendations for use are indicated in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
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Solgar Skin, Nails & Hair Formula:
- Composition: MSM (methyl sulfonylmetatan), red algae (L. Calcareum) powder, vitamin C (L-acscorbic acid), L-lysine, L-Prollyn, zinc (citrate zinc), copper (copper glycine).
- Action: Strengthens the structure of hair and nails, improves the condition of the skin. MSM is a source of sulfur, which is necessary for the synthesis of collagen and keratin. Vitamin C is an antioxidant and is involved in the synthesis of collagen. Zinc and copper are necessary for the normal functioning of hair follicles.
- Advantages: Well -balanced composition, high bioavailability of ingredients, positive consumer reviews.
- Flaws: High price is not suitable for vegans.
- Recommended dosage: 2 tablets per day during meals.
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Perfectil:
- Composition: Vitamin D3, vitamin E, vitamin C, vitamins of group B (B1, B2, B3, B6, B12), folic acid, biotin, pantothenic acid, iron, magnesium, zinc, iodine, copper, manganese, selenium, chromium, L-cysteine, natural carotenoids, grape seed extract.
- Action: A complex formula for maintaining the health of hair, skin and nails. It contains a wide range of vitamins, minerals and amino acids necessary for the normal growth and functioning of hair follicles.
- Advantages: A wide range of ingredients, ease of reception (1 capsule per day), affordable price.
- Flaws: It can cause side effects from the gastrointestinal tract.
- Recommended dosage: 1 capsule per day after the main meal.
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Country Life Maxi-Hair Plus:
- Composition: Vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamins of group B (B1, B2, B3, B6, B12), BIOTIN, folic acid, pantothenic acid, calcium, iodine, zinc, selenium, copper, MSM, L-metionine, L-cysteine, field horsetail, inositol, pub (para-aminobenzoic acid).
- Action: An enhanced formula for maintaining the health of hair, skin and nails. Contains high doses of biotin and MSM.
- Advantages: High doses of biotin and MSM, a wide range of ingredients, a vegetarian product.
- Flaws: Large tablets can cause side effects from the gastrointestinal tract.
- Recommended dosage: 4 capsules per day during meals.
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Nature’s Bounty Hair, Skin & Nails:
- Composition: Vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin E, vitamins of group B (B1, B2, B3, B6, B12), BIOTIN, Panthenic acid, Zinc, Cucumber seed oil, argan oil, coconut oil, hyaluronic acid.
- Action: Supports the health of hair, skin and nails. Contains biotin, oils and hyaluronic acid.
- Advantages: Contains oils and hyaluronic acid, affordable price, chewing tablets with a pleasant taste.
- Flaws: Contains sugar, not suitable for diabetics.
- Recommended dosage: 2 chewing tablets per day.
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Vitabiotics Hairfollic Man:
- Composition: L-cysteine, L-lysine, grape seed extract, pine extract, green tea, vitamin D, vitamin E, vitamin C, vitamins of group B (B1, B2, B3, B6, B12), folic acid, biotin, pantotenic acid, magnesium, iron, zinc, copper, selenium, iodine, silicon.
- Action: A specially designed formula for men that supports hair health. Contains lycopines, grape seed extract and pine extract, which have antioxidant properties.
- Advantages: A specially designed formula for men contains antioxidants, affordable price.
- Flaws: It can cause side effects from the gastrointestinal tract.
- Recommended dosage: 1 tablet per day after the main meal.
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Hairburst:
- Composition: Biotin, selenium, zinc, copper, vitamins of group B (B5, B6, B12), MSM, amino acids (collagen), horsetail extract.
- Action: Accelerates hair growth, gives them strength and shine.
- Advantages: A popular brand, many positive reviews, visible results.
- Flaws: Pretty high price.
- Recommended dosage: 2 capsules per day.
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Viviscal Extra Strength:
- Composition: Aminomar C (patented complex of sea proteins), vitamin C, niacin, biotin, iron, zinc, horsetail extract, flax seed extract.
- Action: Stimulates hair growth, strengthens their structure.
- Advantages: Clinically proven effectiveness contains a patented complex.
- Flaws: High price, specific smell.
- Recommended dosage: 2 tablets per day.
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Nutrafol Women:
- Composition: Saw Palmetto, Sensoril Ashwagandha, Tocotrienol Complex, Marine Collagen Peptides, Nutrient-Dense Kelp Extract, Hyaluronic Acid.
- Action: Aims at the main causes of hair loss in women, such as stress, hormonal imbalance and poor nutrition.
- Advantages: Contains adaptogens, focused on female needs.
- Flaws: Very high price, complex composition.
- Recommended dosage: 4 capsules per day.
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Sports Research Biotin:
- Composition: Only biotin.
- Action: Supports healthy hair, skin and nails.
- Advantages: Simple and clean composition, high dose of biotin, affordable price.
- Flaws: It does not contain other useful ingredients.
- Recommended dosage: 1 capsule a day.
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Zhou Nutrition Hairfluence:
- Composition: Biotin, bamboo, keratin, collagen, vitamins C, B1, B2, B6, pantotenic acid, copper, zinc.
- Action: Strengthens hair, stimulates growth, gives shine.
- Advantages: Contains a bamboo (source of silicon), keratin and collagen.
- Flaws: The composition can be too saturated for some.
- Recommended dosage: 2 capsules per day.
Section 4: Tips for choosing and using hair dietary supplements
4.1 How to determine the cause of hair loss before choosing a dietary supplement.
Before starting to take hair dietary supplements, it is important to determine the cause of hair loss. Hair loss can be caused by various factors such as genetics, hormonal imbalance, stress, malnutrition, disease, drugs and external factors. To determine the cause of hair loss, consult a doctor or a trichologist. The specialist will conduct an inspection, collect the anamnesis and prescribe the necessary tests. For example, blood tests for hormones, iron, zinc, vitamin D and other indicators can be prescribed. Trichoscopy can also be carried out – the study of the scalp and hair using a special microscope. Determining the cause of hair loss will help to choose the most suitable dietary supplement and treatment.
4.2 Optimal dosages and dietary supplements.
Optimal dosages and dietary supplement courses depend on a specific dietary supplement, health status and individual needs. It is recommended to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and the recommendations of a doctor or a trichologist. Do not exceed the recommended dosage, as this can lead to side effects. The course of admission of dietary supplements is usually from 3 to 6 months. To achieve visible results, it is necessary to take dietary supplements regularly and for a long time. After the end of the reception, you can take a break or continue to receive dietary supplements in a supporting dosage.
4.3 Combination of dietary supplements with other hair care products (shampoos, masks, lotions).
To achieve the maximum dietary supplement effect, you can combine with other hair care products, such as shampoos, masks and lotions. Choose shampoos and masks containing and stimulating hair growth ingredients, such as biotin, keratin, collagen, herbal extracts and vitamins. Losions for scalp can improve blood circulation and nutrition of hair follicles. When choosing hair care products, pay attention to the composition and avoid means containing aggressive ingredients, such as sulfates and parabens.
4.4 possible side effects and contraindications.
Before taking any dietary supplement, it is necessary to familiarize yourself with possible side effects and contraindications. Some dietary supplements can cause side effects from the gastrointestinal tract, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or constipation. Other dietary supplements can cause allergic reactions such as skin rash, itching or swelling. Some dietary supplements can interact with drugs. Contraindications to the reception of dietary supplements can be pregnancy, breastfeeding, allergies to dietary supplements, liver and kidney disease. When side effects appear, it is necessary to stop taking the dietary supplement and consult a doctor.
4.5 Life and food as important factors for hair health.
In addition to taking dietary supplements, it is important to lead a healthy lifestyle and eat right to maintain hair health. Observe sleep and rest, avoid stress, play sports. Include products rich in protein, vitamins and minerals in your diet. Eat more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low -fat meat, fish and dairy products. Limit the consumption of sugar, fatty foods and processed foods. Drink enough water. The right lifestyle and nutrition will help improve the overall health and health of the hair.
Section 5: Alternative methods of combating hair loss (in addition to dietary supplements)
5.1 Medicines (minoxidil, finsteride)
Minoxidyl and finsteride are drugs used to treat androgenetic alopecia. Minoxidil is a local drug that is applied to the scalp and stimulates hair growth. It increases the blood supply to the hair follicles and prolongs the anagen phase. Finasteride is a drug for oral administration that blocks the 5-alpha reductase enzyme and reduces the level of DGT. Both drugs have side effects and contraindications, so before use it is necessary to consult a doctor.
5.2 Cosmetic procedures (mesotherapy, plasmolifting)
Mesotherapy and plasmolifting are cosmetic procedures that are used to stimulate hair growth. Mesotherapy consists in introducing vitamins, minerals, amino acids and other nutrients into the scalp with microinjections. Plasmolifting consists in introducing the patient’s own plasma into the scalp enriched with platelets. Platelets contain growth factors that stimulate hair growth and improve the condition of the scalp.
5.3 Folk remedies (hair masks, decoctions of herbs)
There are many folk remedies that are used to strengthen hair and stimulate their growth. These include hair masks based on vegetable oils, eggs, honey, kefir and other ingredients. Also used decoctions of herbs, such as nettles, chamomile, burdock and hops, for rinsing hair. The effectiveness of folk remedies is not always confirmed by scientific research, but they can be useful as additional hair care.
5.4 Change in lifestyle (decrease in stress, proper hair care)
A change in lifestyle can help improve hair health and reduce loss. It is important to reduce the level of stress, sprinkle, eat right and avoid bad habits. Proper hair care includes the use of soft shampoos and air conditioners, avoiding frequency of a hair dryer and ironing, protecting the hair from the sun and wind.
5.5 hair transplant
Hair transplant is a surgical procedure that consists in transplanting hair follicles from the donor region (usually the back of the head) to the field of baldness. Hair transplantation is an effective method of treating androgenetic alopecia, but it is expensive and requires surgical intervention.