Biotin is a superhero ingredient well-regarded for the ability to help promote hair growth. When you take a supplement that combines biotin with zinc, it “provides maintenance for normal hair, skin, and nails,” says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Mona Gohara, M.D.
Nearly every dermatologist we polled cited Nutrafol supplements as a winning choice for hair growth.
For one good biotin supplement, Dr. Jaliman recommends Nature's Bounty Biotin. Containing a marine complex, as well as biotin, zinc, vitamin C, iron, and horsetail extract, Viviscal “uses vitamins to extend the anagen (growth) phase of the hair growth cycle,” says Dr. Engelman.
Both Viviscal and Nutrafol are successful at treating hair thinning and we have carried both of these products in our office. Nutrafol, however, is more effective at not only provided the body with the nutrients needed but also addresses other issues that play a roll in hair loss like stress and hormones.
For healthy hair and stronger nails, there is a natural alternative to biotin — silica.
Minoxidil. Minoxidil is a topical treatment for hair loss that works by moving your hair follicles into a state of active growth and stimulating blood flow to your scalp. It's available as a solution and as a foam that you can apply topically to areas of your scalp affected by hair thinning.
Finasteride (Propecia).
You take it daily as a pill. Many men taking finasteride experience a slowing of hair loss, and some may show new hair growth. It may take a few months to tell whether it's working for you. You'll need to keep taking it to retain any benefits.
Finasteride slows the rate of hair loss and stimulates new hair growth by inhibiting the body's production of a hormone that destroys hair follicles. This medication is taken once a day by mouth and is most effective when taken at the same time each day.
Best overall vitamin for hair growth
Biotin, also known as vitamin B7, is a water-soluble vitamin that supports healthy hair, skin and nail growth. It is especially useful in breaking down foods such as proteins and carbohydrates, boosting energy. Nature Made's Biotin supplement contains 1,000 mcg of biotin.
Vitamin B-
Vitamin B is one of the best-known vitamins to prevent hair loss and promote hair growth. It helps create red blood cells which carry oxygen and nutrients to the scalp and hair follicles. This creates a healthy hair growth atmosphere. The most famous and commonly heard B-vitamin is Biotin.
How much B12 should I take daily for hair growth? The lowest amount recommended that should be traceable in your body is 2.4 mcg. While you are looking for a difference in your hair growth you can increase this dosage to 3 mcg and beyond.
The study found that those who were given Viviscal showed significant growth along with hair shine and skin smoothness. “The oral supplement assessed in this study safely and effectively promotes significant hair growth in women with temporary hair thinning,” the study concluded.
Whether you're looking to strengthen your hair, skin, or nails, collagen is the way to go. If you're deciding between biotin and collagen, remember that you can get the full benefits of biotin through foods, but you can only get the full benefits of hydrolyzed collagen in a collagen supplement.
As a vitamin, biotin primarily supports hair health by breaking down macronutrients in the body for cell renewal and growth. On the other hand, collagen directly promotes hair follicle growth through amino acids and proteins.
If a person has a biotin deficiency, taking biotin may improve the health of their skin. Otherwise, collagen can be a better option as there is more evidence to suggest it helps improve the skin's appearance.
People who stop taking Viviscal may not notice any change immediately. While not everyone will notice changes after stopping Viviscal, some people's hair may become gradually thinner over time.
Nausea. The inclusion of iron in the oral Viviscal Professioanl supplement could cause stomach irritation. Skeletal issues. Joint stiffness or pain may result from Viviscal Professional but is not common.
Nutrafol Side Effects
Biotin, one of the main ingredients in Nutrafol, can cause nausea, cramping, and diarrhea. If you take too much biotin, you may also experience skin rashes and high blood sugar levels. Check the ingredients in the formula you are taking to avoid an allergic reaction.
Skip tight braids or ponytails that may pull on hair at the root and potentially lead to excessive shedding. While you're at it, let your hair air dry to avoid irritating your scalp. If you can, avoid heat stylers, like curling or straightening irons, which may also damage or break the hair shaft.