Popular hair dietary supplements: pros and cons of

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Popular hair dietary supplements: pros and cons of

I. Review of the main categories of hair dietary

Hair, like other parts of the body, needs enough nutrition for growth and maintenance of health. When food through a regular diet is not enough, many turn to biologically active additives (dietary supplements). The market for hair dietary supplements is huge and diverse, offering a wide range of products promising to improve the condition of the hair, stimulate their growth and prevent loss. To understand this diversity, it is necessary to understand the main categories of dietary supplements and their alleged mechanisms of action.

A. Vitamin complexes:

Vitamins play a key role in various biochemical processes necessary for hair health. The deficiency of certain vitamins can lead to hair loss, dryness, brittleness and other problems.

  1. B vitamins B:

    • Biotin (B7): One of the most famous hair vitamins. Biotin is involved in the metabolism of fatty acids, which are important to maintain healthy scalp and hair. Despite the popularity, the Biotin deficiency is relatively rare, with the exception of people with certain genetic disorders that take some drugs (for example, antibiotics) or abuse raw eggs (avidine in raw eggs binds biotin and prevents its absorption). Clinical studies confirming the effectiveness of biotin for hair growth in people without deficiency are limited, but subjectively many note an improvement in the condition of hair and nails when taking it. An overdose of biotin is unlikely, since it is a water -soluble vitamin and excess is excreted from the body in urine. However, high doses of biotin can distort the results of some laboratory tests, in particular, tests for thyroid hormones, so it is important to inform the doctor about taking biotin before testing.
    • Niacin (B3): Niacin improves blood circulation in the scalp, which helps the delivery of nutrients to hair follicles. It also participates in the production of keratin, the main protein that makes up the hair. Niacin’s deficiency can lead to Pellagra, a disease, one of the symptoms of which is dermatitis, including on the scalp, which can adversely affect the condition of the hair. Niacin can cause redness of the skin (Flush) when taking high doses, so it is recommended to start with low doses and gradually increase them. Contraindication to the reception of niacin are stomach ulcers, gout, severe liver diseases.
    • Pantotenic acid (B5): Pantotenic acid is involved in the metabolism of fats, proteins and carbohydrates necessary for hair growth. It also helps to moisturize the hair and prevents their dryness and brittleness. Pantothenic acid deficiency is rare.
    • Folic acid (B9): Folic acid is necessary for cell division, including hair follicles. Folic acid deficiency can lead to a slowdown in hair growth and their loss. Folic acid for pregnant women is especially important, as it is necessary for the normal development of the fetus.

  2. Vitamin A:

    Vitamin A is necessary for the production of sebum, which moisturizes the scalp and hair. Vitamin A deficiency can lead to dry scalp and hair, as well as to fall out. However, excess vitamin A can also be harmful and lead to hair loss. It is recommended to receive vitamin A from food or take dietary supplements only as prescribed by a doctor.

  3. Vitamin C:

    Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that protects the hair follicles from damage to free radicals. It is also necessary for the production of collagen, which strengthens the hair. Vitamin C deficiency can lead to brittle hair and its loss. Vitamin C is well absorbed and rarely causes side effects, but high doses can lead to stomach disorder.

  4. Vitamin D:

    Vitamin D plays a role in hair growth, although the exact mechanism of its action has not been fully studied. Some studies associate the deficiency of vitamin D with hair loss, especially with focal alopecia. Vitamin D is synthesized in the skin under the influence of sunlight, but many people experience a deficiency of this vitamin, especially in winter. Vitamin D intake can be useful for people with a deficit, but before taking it is recommended to take a blood test for vitamin D level and consult a doctor. The excess of vitamin D can lead to hypercalcemia, a state in which the level of calcium in the blood is too high.

  5. Vitamin E:

    Vitamin E is an antioxidant that improves blood circulation in the scalp and protects the hair follicles from damage. Vitamin E deficiency is rare.

B. Mineral complexes:

Minerals are also necessary for hair health. The most important hair for hair:

  1. Iron:

    Iron is necessary for transferring oxygen to hair follicles. Iron deficiency is one of the most common causes of hair loss, especially in women. Anemia caused by iron deficiency can lead to a slowdown in hair growth, their thinning and loss. Iron intake can be useful for people with anemia, but before taking, it is recommended to take a blood test to the level of iron and consult a doctor. Excess iron can be toxic and lead to organs damage. Iron is better absorbed in combination with vitamin C. There are various forms of iron (for example, iron sulfate, iron fumarat, iron gluconate), which differ in bioavailability and tolerance.

  2. Zinc:

    Zinc is involved in the growth and restoration of tissues, as well as in the operation of the sebaceous glands, which moisturize the scalp. Zinc deficiency can lead to hair loss, dandruff and other problems with the scalp. Zinc is also important for the immune system. Taking zinc can be useful for people with a deficit, but before admission it is recommended to consult a doctor. Excess zinc can suppress the assimilation of copper.

  3. Selenium:

    Selenium is an antioxidant that protects the hair follicles from damage. It is also necessary for the normal functioning of the thyroid gland, which plays an important role in hair growth. Selenium deficiency is rare.

  4. Magnesium:

    Magnesium is involved in many biochemical processes in the body, including hair growth. Magnesium deficiency can lead to stress that can aggravate hair loss. Magnesium also helps to improve blood circulation in the scalp.

  5. Calcium:

    Calcium is necessary for the health of bones, teeth and hair. It also participates in the transmission of nerve impulses and muscle contraction. Calcium deficiency can lead to brittle hair.

C. Amino acids:

Hair consists mainly of keratin protein, which consists of amino acids. Reception of certain amino acids can help strengthen hair and stimulate their growth.

  1. L-Cistein:

    L-cysteine ​​is one of the main amino acids that make up keratin. It contains sulfur, which gives the hair strength and elasticity. L-cysteine ​​is also an antioxidant.

  2. L-Lisin:

    L-Lisin is necessary for the production of collagen, which strengthens the hair. It also contributes to the absorption of iron.

  3. Methionine:

    Metionine is an indispensable amino acid that contains sulfur. It is involved in the synthesis of keratin and other proteins.

D. Plant extracts:

Many hair dietary supplements contain plant extracts, which are believed to have properties that promote hair growth and improve their condition.

  1. SAW Palmetto palm extract:

    Serene palm extract is used to treat benign prostate hyperplasia (DHCH) in men. It is also believed that it can block the effect of digidrotestosterone (DGT), a hormone that can cause hair loss by male type (androgenic alopecia). Clinical studies of the effectiveness of the Extract of the Palm Serenia for the treatment of androgenic alopecia are contradictory.

  2. Horsetail extract of the field:

    Field horsetail contains silicon, which is believed that it strengthens hair and nails. However, clinical studies of the efficiency of horsetail extract for grocery for hair growth are limited.

  3. Dioecious nettle extract:

    The dioecious nettle extract contains vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, which are believed to improve blood circulation in the scalp and contribute to hair growth. Some studies show that dioecious nettle extract can block the action of DGT.

  4. Green tea extract:

    Green tea extract contains antioxidants that protect hair follicles from damage. Some studies show that green tea extract can stimulate hair growth.

  5. Bioperin (black pepper extract):

    Bioperin improves the absorption of other nutrients contained in dietary supplements.

E. Other ingredients:

Some hair dietary supplements contain other ingredients, such as collagen, hyaluronic acid and omega-3 fatty acids.

  1. Collagen:

    Collagen is the main structural protein of the skin, hair and nails. Reception of collagen can improve skin condition and strengthen hair. However, it is important to note that the collagen taken inside is split into amino acids and does not necessarily reach hair follicles unchanged.

  2. Hyaluronic acid:

    Hyaluronic acid holds moisture in the skin and hair, making them more moistened and elastic.

  3. Omega-3 fatty acids:

    Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties and improve blood circulation in the scalp.

II. Pros and cons of the hair dietary supplement

Reception of hair dietary supplements can be useful for people who are deficient in certain nutrients. However, it is important to understand the pros and cons of dietary supplements before starting to accept them.

A. Pluses:

  1. Improving the condition of the hair:

    Bades can improve the condition of the hair, making it stronger, shiny and healthy. This is especially noticeable in the presence of a deficiency of certain nutrients.

  2. Hair growth stimulation:

    Some dietary supplements can stimulate hair growth, especially in people with slow hair growth or hair loss.

  3. Prevention of hair loss:

    Bades can help prevent hair loss, especially in people with a deficiency of nutrients or androgenic alopecia.

  4. Strengthening nails:

    Many hair dietary supplements also improve the condition of the nails, making them stronger and more healthy.

  5. General improvement in health:

    Bades containing vitamins and minerals can contribute to a general improvement in health.

B. Cons:

  1. Insufficient scientific evidence base:

    The effectiveness of many hair dietary supplements has not been proved by clinical research. Many studies have a small sample or are not controlled by placebo.

  2. Possible side effects:

    Some dietary supplements can cause side effects, such as stomach disorder, nausea, diarrhea and allergic reactions. This is especially true for high doses of vitamins and minerals.

  3. Interaction with drugs:

    Bades can interact with drugs, which can reduce the effectiveness of drugs or increase the risk of side effects. It is important to inform the doctor about the intake of dietary supplements before taking new drugs.

  4. High cost:

    Hair dietary supplements can be expensive, especially if you take them for a long time.

  5. The inconsistency of the declared composition is real:

    Some dietary supplements may contain the ingredients not indicated on the label, or contain the ingredients in an amount that does not correspond to the declared. It can be dangerous to health.

  6. The risk of an overdose:

    Taking high doses of vitamins and minerals can lead to an overdose that can be harmful to health. It is important to follow the recommended dosage indicated on the label.

  7. Inefficiency for certain causes of hair loss:

    Bades are not always effective for certain causes of hair loss, such as genetic predisposition, hormonal disorders or autoimmune diseases. In such cases, you must consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.

  8. Masks of serious diseases:

    Hair loss can be a symptom of a serious disease. Reception of dietary supplements can disguise the symptom and delay the diagnosis and treatment of the disease.

III. Choice of hair dietary supplement: what to consider

The choice of hair dietary supplement is a responsible process that requires a thorough analysis and accounting for individual characteristics. There is no universal dietary supplement suitable for everyone. The effectiveness and safety of dietary supplements depend on many factors, including the cause of hair loss, health, age, gender and medications taken.

A. Consultation with a doctor:

Before you start taking a hair dietary supplement, it is recommended to consult a doctor or a trichologist. The doctor can determine the cause of hair loss and recommend the most suitable dietary supplement or other treatment. It can also exclude serious diseases that can cause hair loss. The doctor may prescribe blood tests to determine the level of vitamins and minerals and detect a nutrient deficiency.

B. Determining the cause of hair loss:

It is important to determine the cause of hair loss before starting to take dietary supplement. Different causes of hair loss require a different approach to treatment. For example, hair loss caused by iron deficiency requires iron taking, and hair loss caused by androgenic alopecia requires taking drugs that block the effect of DGT.

C. Study of the composition of Bad:

Before buying dietary supplements, you must carefully study its composition. Make sure that the dietary supplement contains ingredients that are believed to contribute to hair growth and improving their condition. Pay attention to the dosage of the ingredients. Do not choose dietary supplements containing a large number of ingredients whose effectiveness is not proven.

D. The choice of a reliable manufacturer:

Choose dietary supplements from reliable manufacturers who have a good reputation and comply with quality standards. Check the availability of quality certificates. Beware of fakes.

E. Reviews Assessment:

Before buying Bad, read the reviews of other people who accepted it. Pay attention to reviews about the effectiveness of dietary supplements, side effects and quality of the product. However, remember that reviews can be subjective and not always reflect the real picture.

F. Accounting for individual characteristics:

When choosing a dietary supplement, it is necessary to take into account individual characteristics, such as age, gender, health status and medications taken. Some dietary supplements can be contraindicated in certain diseases or when taking certain drugs. Pregnant and lactating women should consult a doctor before taking dietary supplements.

G. Observation of the reaction of the body:

After the start of taking dietary supplements, it is necessary to carefully observe the reaction of the body. If you notice any side effects, stop taking a dietary supplement and consult a doctor.

H. Evaluation of effectiveness:

Evaluate the effectiveness of dietary supplements after several months of admission. If you have not noticed any improvements, perhaps dietary supplements are not suitable for you. In this case, consult a doctor to select another dietary supplement or other treatment.

IV. Specific dietary supplements and their analysis

Consider some popular hair dietary supplements available in the market and conduct their brief analysis, based on the composition and existing scientific data. It is important to remember that the information presented below is not a replacement for a consultation with a doctor.

A. “Perfectil Plus Hair”:

  • Composition: Contains vitamins of group B (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B12, BIOTIN, Folic acid), vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin E, iron, zinc, magnesium, selenium, copper, iodine, silicon, L-cysteine, L-metionine, grape seed extract, coenzyme Q10, omega-3 fatty acids. (fish oil).
  • Analysis: A complex composition, including vitamins, minerals, amino acids, antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids. Contains biotin, iron and zinc, which are often associated with an improvement in hair condition. The presence of antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids can help improve blood circulation in the scalp.
  • Pros: A wide range of nutrients, potentially healthy hair.
  • Cons: Contains fish oil, which can be a contraindication for people with allergies to fish. High price. Effectiveness depends on the presence of a deficiency of nutrients.

B. “Prioress Extra”:

  • Composition: Contains a millet extract, L-cysteine, calcium pantotenate (vitamin B5), biotin.
  • Analysis: The composition is focused on amino acids and vitamins of group B. The millet extract is traditionally used to strengthen hair. Biotin and pantotenic acid are important for the metabolism of hair follicle cells.
  • Pros: Relatively simple composition. It is believed that it is specially designed to support hair growth.
  • Cons: Limited range of nutrients. Clinical studies of the effectiveness of the millet extract are limited. It does not contain minerals.

C. “Solgar Skin, Nails & Hair”:

  • Composition: Contains MSM (methyl sulfonylmetatan), red algae powder (L. Calcareum), vitamin C, l Lizin, L-Prollyn, zinc, copper.
  • Analysis: Contains MSM, an organic connection of sulfur, which is believed that it strengthens hair, skin and nails. L-Lisin and L-Prollyn are amino acids necessary for the production of collagen. Vitamin C, zinc and copper are important for the health of the skin and hair.
  • Pros: Contains an MSM that can help strengthen hair.
  • Cons: It does not contain group B vitamins, which are often associated with an improvement in hair condition. Does not contain iron. Clinical studies of the effectiveness of MSM for hair growth are limited.

D. “Viviscal Extra Strength”:

  • Composition: Contains Aminomar C ™ (sea protein complex), vitamin C, niacin (B3), BIOTIN, iron, zinc.
  • Analysis: Contains a unique marine protein complex, which is claimed to help hair growth. It includes vitamins and minerals necessary for the health of hair.
  • Pros: Contains a unique marine protein complex. Clinical studies sponsored by the manufacturer demonstrate positive results.
  • Cons: It contains a sea protein complex, which can be a contraindication for people with allergies to seafood. High price. Clinical studies sponsored by the manufacturer can be biased.

E. Bades with biotin (for example, “Natrol Biotin”):

  • Composition: Contains only biotin.
  • Analysis: Designed for people with a deficiency of biotin. It can be useful for strengthening hair and nails.
  • Pros: Simple composition. Low price.
  • Cons: Effective only with a deficiency of biotin. High doses of biotin can distort the results of some laboratory tests.

V. Alternative approaches to improving hair condition

In addition to taking dietary supplements, there are other approaches to improving the condition of the hair that can be more effective or used in combination with dietary supplements.

A. Balanced nutrition:

The basis of hair health is a balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals and proteins. Include products rich in iron, zinc, biotin, vitamin D, vitamin C, omega-3 fatty acids and amino acids in your diet. Examples of products that are useful for hair: eggs, fish, meat, nuts, seeds, fruits, vegetables and whole grain products.

B. Proper hair care:

Proper hair care plays an important role in maintaining their health. Use shampoo and air conditioning suitable for your hair type. Avoid frequent hair wash, as this can dry the scalp and hair. Do not use too hot water to wash your hair. Limit the use of a hair dryer, iron and other thermal tools, as it can damage hair. Protect the hair from the sun and wind. Cut the ends of the hair regularly to prevent split ends.

C. Reducing stress:

Stress can adversely affect the condition of the hair, causing their loss and deceleration of growth. Find the ways to cope with stress, such as meditation, yoga, physical exercises or communication with friends and relatives.

D. Treatment of diseases:

If hair loss is caused by a disease, this disease must be treated. For example, if hair loss is caused by anemia, it is necessary to take iron drugs. If hair loss is caused by hormonal disorders, it is necessary to contact an endocrinologist to prescribe treatment.

E. Cosmetic procedures:

There are cosmetic procedures that can improve the condition of the hair, such as mesotherapy, plasmolifting and laser therapy. However, the effectiveness of these procedures is not always proven, and they can be expensive.

F. Folk remedies:

There are many folk remedies to strengthen hair and stimulate their growth, such as hair masks using oils (burdock, castor, olive), herbal decoctions and tinctures. However, the effectiveness of these products is not always proven, and they can cause allergic reactions.

VI. Conclusion (how to avoid it, but to hint briefly)

In conclusion, the choice of hair dietary supplement is an individual process that requires consulting a doctor and taking into account individual characteristics. Do not rely only on dietary supplements to solve hair problems. Balanced diet, proper hair care, reduction of stress and treatment of diseases is also important.

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