Hair growth: what really works
Part 1: The basics of hair growth and the causes of falling
Before delving into the world of dietary supplements (biologically active additives) for hair growth, it is necessary to understand the basics of the physiology of the hairline and the causes, leading to its thinning and loss. Hair is skin appendages, consisting mainly of keratin protein. Each hair passes through a cyclic process consisting of three phases:
- Anagen (growth phase): This is the longest phase that lasts from 2 to 7 years. During this period, the hair bulb is actively divided, forming a new hair, which grows on average by 1-1.5 cm per month. The duration of the anagen determines the maximum length that the hair can achieve.
- Katagen (transition phase): This phase lasts about 2-3 weeks. During this period, the hair follicle is reduced, and hair growth stops.
- Telogen (Phase Salm): This phase lasts about 3 months. The hair bulb is at rest, and the old hair is gradually pushed out with a new one, begins to form in the anagen phase.
Normally, about 85-90% of the hair are in the anagen phase, 1-2% in the catagen phase, and 10-15% in the bodyogen phase. Every day, a person loses from 50 to 100 hair, which is normal, since old hair is replaced by new ones. However, if the amount of hair dropping exceeds the norm, this may indicate various problems.
Causes of hair loss (alopecia):
Hair loss can be caused by many factors, including:
- Genetic predisposition (androgenetic alopecia): This is the most common cause of hair loss, especially in men. It is associated with the genetic sensitivity of hair follicles to dihydrotestosterone (DGT), a hormone formed from testosterone. DGT causes miniaturization of hair follicles, which leads to thinning and hair loss. In women, androgenetic alopecia can manifest itself in the form of diffuse thinning of hair in central parting.
- Hormonal changes: Hormonal vibrations associated with pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, thyroid diseases and taking hormonal drugs (for example, contraceptive tablets) can lead to hair loss.
- Stress: Chronic stress, physical or emotional, can cause a heterogenic alopecia, in which a large amount of hair premature goes into the heterogene phase and falls out.
- Inal meals: The lack of necessary nutrients, such as protein, iron, zinc, biotin and vitamins, can adversely affect hair growth.
- Diseases: Some diseases, such as autoimmune diseases (for example, an area of an area), scalp infections (for example, stripping lichen), thyroid disease and systemic diseases (for example, lupus), can cause hair loss.
- Medicines: Some drugs, such as anticoagulants, antidepressants, drugs for chemotherapy and drugs to reduce cholesterol, can cause hair loss as a side effect.
- Injuries and burns: Hair follicles can damage the scalp and scalp of scalp and lead to hair loss in the area of damage.
- Incorrect hair care: Excessive use of hair dryers, ironing, painting, dyeing and chemical curls can damage the hair and lead to their brittleness and loss.
- Trichotillomania: This is a mental disorder, characterized by an intrusive pulling out their own hair.
Diagnosis of the causes of hair loss:
To determine the cause of hair loss, you must consult a trichologist or dermatologist. The doctor will examine the scalp and hair, collect the history and may prescribe additional studies, such as:
- Trichoscopy: This is a non -invasive method of studying the hair and scalp using a special device — a trichoscope. Trichoscopy allows you to assess the condition of hair follicles, hair structure, the presence of inflammation and other changes.
- Phototrichogramma: This is a more accurate method than trichoscopy. It allows you to determine the density of the hair, the ratio of hair in different phases of growth and hair growth rate.
- Blood test: A blood test can detect a deficiency of nutrients, hormonal disorders and other diseases that can cause hair loss.
- Scalp biopsy: In rare cases, a scalp biopsy may be required to clarify the diagnosis.
Part 2: The main components of dietary supplements for hair growth and their effectiveness
Hair growth dietary supplements contain various components that theoretically should improve hair health and stimulate their growth. However, not all these components are equally effective, and their effectiveness can vary depending on the individual characteristics of the body and the cause of hair loss. It is important to understand that dietary supplements are not medicines and cannot cure alopecia caused by genetic factors or serious diseases. They can be useful as an addition to the main treatment and to maintain hair health with a deficiency of nutrients.
The most common components of dietary supplements for hair growth and their estimated effectiveness:
- Biotin (Vitamin B7): Biotin plays an important role in the metabolism of fats, carbohydrates and proteins that are necessary for hair growth. Biotin deficiency is rare, but it can lead to hair loss, fragility of nails and skin problems. Reception of biotin can be useful with a deficiency of this vitamin, however, studies show that it is ineffective for stimulating hair growth in people with a normal biotin level. It is important to note that high doses of biotin can distort the results of some laboratory tests.
- Iron: Iron is necessary for transporting oxygen to the cells of the body, including hair follicles. Iron deficiency (iron deficiency anemia) is a common cause of hair loss, especially in women. Iron intake can be useful for iron deficiency anemia, however, an excess of iron can be harmful to health. Therefore, before taking iron preparations, it is necessary to take a blood test to the level of iron and ferritin.
- Zinc: Zinc is involved in the synthesis of the protein necessary for hair growth, and also regulates the work of the sebaceous glands of the scalp. Zinc deficiency can lead to hair loss, dry skin and dandruff. Taking zinc can be useful with a deficiency of this mineral, however, high doses of zinc can violate the absorption of other minerals such as copper.
- Vitamin D: Vitamin D plays an important role in the regulation of hair growth and the functioning of hair follicles. Vitamin D deficiency can be associated with hair loss, especially with an area of an area. Vitamin D intake can be useful with a deficiency of this vitamin, however, high doses of vitamin D can be toxic. Before taking vitamin D, it is recommended to take a blood test to the level of vitamin D.
- Vitamin C: Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that protects the hair follicles from damage to free radicals. It is also necessary for the synthesis of collagen, which is an important component of hair structure.
- Vitamin E: Vitamin E is also an antioxidant and improves blood circulation in the scalp.
- B vitamins B: B vitamins B (B1, B2, B3, B5, B9, B12) play an important role in the metabolism of energy and the functioning of the nervous system, which can indirectly influence hair growth.
- Amino acids (L-cysteine, L-lisine, L-metionine): Amino acids are construction blocks of proteins, including keratin, the main component of the hair. Acceptance of amino acids can be useful for maintaining hair health, especially with protein deficiency in the diet.
- Sea collagen: Collagen is the main structural protein in the body, including skin, hair and nails. Sea collagen is considered more bioavailable than other types of collagen. Reception of sea collagen can improve the elasticity and strength of the hair.
- Keratin: Keratin is the main component of hair. The intake of keratin in the form of Bad should theoretically improve the structure of the hair, however, its effectiveness is in doubt, since keratin is a large molecule that is poorly absorbed in the intestines.
- SAW Palmetto palm extract: Serene palm extract blocks the action of the 5-alpha reductase enzyme, which turns testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DGT). DGT is the main factor that causes an androgenetic alopecia. Serene palm extract can be useful for men with androgenetic alopecia, however, its effectiveness requires further research.
- Rosemary oil: Rosemary oil has antioxidant and anti -inflammatory properties, improves blood circulation in the scalp and can stimulate hair growth. Rosemary oil can be used in the form of hair masks or added to shampoo.
- Horsetail extract of the field: Field horsetail contains silicon, which is an important mineral for the health of hair, skin and nails. Silicon strengthens the hair and gives it shine.
- Copper: Copper is necessary for the formation of a melanin pigment, which gives the hair color. The deficit of copper can lead to hair sowing.
Scientific evidence of the effectiveness of dietary supplements for hair growth:
Most studies on the effectiveness of dietary supplements for hair growth have a small number of participants and low quality. Therefore, it is difficult to draw unequivocal conclusions about their effectiveness. Some studies show that the intake of biotin, iron, zinc and vitamin D can be useful with a deficiency of these substances, however, they are ineffective for stimulating hair growth in people with a normal level of these substances. Serene palm extract can be useful for men with androgenetic alopecia, but its effectiveness requires further research. Rosemary oil can stimulate hair growth, but its effectiveness also requires further research.
Part 3: How to choose the right and take dietary supplements for hair growth
The choice of dietary supplement for hair growth should be based on the cause of hair loss and individual needs of the body. Before taking dietary supplements, it is necessary to consult a trichologist or dermatologist to determine the cause of hair loss and exclude serious diseases.
Recommendations for choosing dietary supplements for hair growth:
- Determine the cause of hair loss: Before starting to receive dietary supplements, it is necessary to find out the cause of hair loss. If hair loss is caused by a deficiency of nutrients, then taking dietary supplements containing these substances can be useful. If hair loss is caused by genetic factors or serious diseases, then dietary supplements will not be effective and it is necessary to consult a doctor to prescribe the appropriate treatment.
- Pay attention to the composition of the Bad: Choose dietary supplements containing components that have proven their effectiveness in research. Pay attention to the dosage of the components. The dosage should be adequate, but not exceed the recommended daily standards.
- Choose dietary supplements from reliable manufacturers: Choose dietary supplements from famous and reliable manufacturers who have a good reputation and conduct quality control of their products.
- Read reviews: Before buying Bad, read the reviews of other people who accepted it. However, remember that reviews can be subjective and not always reflect the real effectiveness of dietary supplements.
- Pay attention to contraindications and side effects: Before taking Bad, read contraindications and possible side effects. If you have any diseases or you take medications, consult your doctor before taking Bad.
Recommendations for receiving dietary supplements for hair growth:
- Follow the instructions: Take dietary supplements in accordance with the instructions on the package. Do not exceed the recommended dosage.
- Take dietary supplement regularly: To achieve the effect, it is necessary to take dietary supplements regularly for several months.
- Combine the reception of dietary supplements with proper nutrition and hair care: To achieve the maximum effect, it is necessary to combine the intake of dietary supplements with proper nutrition, rich protein, vitamins and minerals, and proper hair care. Avoid excessive use of hairdries, ironing, painting, staining and chemical curling.
- Be patient: The results from the reception of dietary supplements may not be noticeable immediately. It usually takes several months to see the first improvements.
- Follow your condition: During the reception of Bad, follow your condition. If you have any side effects, stop taking dietary supplements and consult a doctor.
Alternative methods of stimulation of hair growth:
In addition to dietary supplements, there are other methods of stimulating hair growth, which can be more effective or supplement the intake of dietary supplements:
- Minoxidil: Minoxidil is a drug that stimulates hair growth and increases their density. It is available in the form of a solution or foam for external use. Minoxidil is effective for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia in men and women. However, it has side effects, such as scalp irritation, itching and hair growth on the face.
- Finasters: Finasteride is a drug that blocks the effect of the enzyme 5-alpha reductase and reduces the level of DHT. Finasteride is effective for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia in men. However, it has side effects, such as a decrease in libido, erectile dysfunction and depression. Finasteride is contraindicated in women.
- Laser therapy: Low -level laser therapy (LLLT) stimulates hair growth and improves blood circulation in the scalp. LLLT can be effective for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia and the alopecia of the area.
- Mesotherapy: Mesotherapy is an injection procedure in which various nutrients are introduced into the scalp, such as vitamins, minerals, amino acids and peptides. Mesotherapy can stimulate hair growth and improve their condition.
- PRP therapy (Platelet-Rich Plasma): PRP therapy is an injection procedure in which plasma enriched with platelets is introduced into the scalp. Platelets contain growth factors that stimulate hair growth and improve blood circulation in the scalp.
- Hair transplant: Hair transplant is a surgical procedure in which hair follicles are transplanted from the donor zone (usually the occipital region) to the hair loss. Hair transplant is an effective method of hair restoration with androgenetic alopecia and other forms of alopecia.
Part 4: pitfalls and common myths about dietary supplements for hair growth
Unfortunately, the market for hair growth is full of unfair advertising and unreasonable statements. It is important to understand that not all that manufacturers promise is true. There are many myths and errors about dietary supplements for hair growth that can mislead consumers.
Common myths about dietary supplements for hair growth:
- Bades can completely stop hair loss and restore lost hair: Bades are not a miracle tool and cannot completely stop hair loss, especially if it is caused by genetic factors or serious diseases. They can only improve hair health and stimulate their growth with a deficiency of nutrients. It is impossible to restore lost hair with dietary supplements.
- The more expensive the dietary supplement, the more effective it is: The price of dietary supplements is not always an indicator of its effectiveness. Some expensive dietary supplements may contain components that have not proved their effectiveness or contain them in insufficient dosage. It is important to pay attention to the composition of the dietary supplement and the reputation of the manufacturer, and not just the price.
- Bades have an instant effect: It takes time to achieve the effect of taking dietary supplements. Typically, the first improvements become noticeable after a few months of regular reception.
- Bades are safe and have no side effects: Bades can have side effects, especially with an overdose or in the presence of contraindications. Before taking Bad, you need to consult a doctor and get acquainted with the instructions.
- Bades are suitable for everyone: Bades can be ineffective or even harmful to people with certain diseases or taking drugs. Before taking Bad, you need to consult a doctor.
Submarine stones when buying dietary supplements for hair growth:
- Unscrupulous advertising: Many dietary supplements use aggressive and unfair advertising, promising instant and incredible results. It is important to critically evaluate advertising statements and not believe everything that is written on the package.
- Fakes: On the market there are many fake dietary supplements that do not contain the declared components or contain them in insufficient dosage. Buy dietary supplements only in trusted pharmacies or from reliable suppliers.
- Lack of quality control: The production of dietary supplements is not as strictly regulated as the production of drugs. Therefore, the quality of dietary supplements can vary depending on the manufacturer. Choose dietary supplements from well -known and reliable manufacturers who conduct quality control of their products.
- Incorrect dosage: It is important to follow the recommended dosage of dietary supplements. An overdose can lead to side effects.
- Interaction with drugs: Bades can interact with drugs by changing their effectiveness or causing side effects. Before taking Bad, inform the doctor about all the drugs that you take.
In conclusion:
Bades for hair growth can be useful as an addition to the main treatment of hair loss and to maintain hair health with a deficiency of nutrients. However, it is important to understand that dietary supplements are not a miracle tool and cannot cure alopecia caused by genetic factors or serious diseases. Before taking dietary supplements, it is necessary to consult a trichologist or dermatologist to determine the cause of hair loss and exclude serious diseases. Choose dietary supplements from reliable manufacturers, pay attention to the composition of the dietary supplement and follow the instructions for use. Combine the intake of dietary supplements with proper nutrition, hair care and other methods of stimulation of hair growth. Remember that the results from the reception of dietary supplements may not be noticeable and require patience.