We all lose hair every day—about 100 strands, to be precise. While that may not seem like a big deal, the problem arises when your hair isn’t growing back. That’s when the frustrating cycle of male pattern baldness (MPB) can begin to rear its head. MPB has a variety of causes, ranging from genetics and stress to aging. But I’m here to tell you that it’s not something we just have to sit back and accept.
If you’re like me, you’ve probably tried or considered a variety of ways to combat hair loss, from topical treatments to lifestyle changes. One thing I’ve found particularly effective is ensuring my body has all the right nutrients to support healthy hair growth. That’s where hair growth supplements come into play.
There’s a lot of confusion out there about what works, and with so many options available, it can feel overwhelming to pick the right one. I’ve tested a variety of hair growth vitamins, pills, and supplements myself, and I’m here to help guide you through the process of finding one that suits your needs.
Quick summary: Before you buy—what to consider when choosing hair growth vitamins and supplements
The first question most people ask is, “Do hair growth vitamins really work?” The answer is yes, but it’s important to choose the right products. I’ve seen firsthand that supplements designed specifically for hair growth contain the exact blend of vitamins and minerals that regular multivitamins just can’t match. They’re made to target the hair, providing nutrients that your follicles need to grow.
But not all supplements are created equal, and some are better than others. Here are a few things I’ve learned to look for when deciding which ones to buy:
1. Know your hair growth vitamins
There are a handful of key vitamins and minerals you should be on the lookout for when picking a hair growth supplement. Vitamins A, B12, C, D, E, niacin, and biotin (also known as vitamin B7) are crucial, as are minerals like iron, zinc, magnesium, and calcium. These are the building blocks of healthy hair.
When I’m evaluating a new product, I always make sure biotin is one of the main ingredients, because it plays a key role in hair strength and growth. Many supplements also include other ingredients like keratin, which is the protein that makes up your hair, skin, and nails.
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2. Always check the label
It sounds obvious, but it’s easy to overlook—always check the label. I make it a habit to review the ingredient list of every supplement I try. First, I want to make sure it includes natural, plant-based ingredients, which are generally absorbed better by the body. Second, it helps to avoid any ingredients that might cause an allergic reaction or aren’t suitable for you.
I prefer supplements with pure vitamins and minerals from organic sources. In my experience, they tend to be gentler on the body and more effective overall.
3. Look for key ingredients
Beyond the essential vitamins and minerals, certain extracts and oils have been shown to support hair growth. Keep an eye out for saw palmetto, bamboo stem and leaf extract, flaxseed oil, and borage oil. These ingredients, while not necessary in every product, have helped me achieve better results by promoting a healthy scalp environment and supporting hair follicles.
4. Talk to your doctor
Before I started taking supplements, I checked in with my doctor to see if I had any nutrient deficiencies. A blood test can give you a clearer picture of what your body needs, which can help you tailor your supplement choices. It’s something I recommend to anyone starting a new hair growth routine. Your doctor can also help you determine if a supplement will interfere with any medications you’re already taking.
5. Price vs. quality
When it comes to hair growth supplements, you don’t need to break the bank. From my experience, price doesn’t always reflect quality. There are plenty of effective supplements that fit within a reasonable budget. The key is finding one that works for you and sticking with it consistently.
6. Reviews—trust the real experiences
Customer reviews have been a great resource for me when I’m evaluating new products. While you should always be wary of overly glowing or negative reviews, there’s usually a pattern you can identify from people who’ve used the supplement over a longer period. I look for feedback from people with similar hair loss concerns to mine to get an idea of how well the product works in real-life situations.
Next, let’s move on to our reviews:
The 6 best hair growth vitamins, pills & supplements
1. Revita Nutraceutical Tablets for Hair Growth
What stands out about this vitamin supplement:
- Supplements your iron levels, the most common deficiency in humans worldwide
- Contains powerful antioxidants to support scalp and hair health
- Proprietary ‘Nanosome’ delivery system ensures maximum uptake of active ingredients
Best vitamin supplement for: Men at any stage of their hair care journey, particularly those addressing early-stage hair thinning. Iron supplementation is vital unless lab tests show you aren’t deficient. Reversing low iron levels can be a significant first step in addressing hair loss, as it’s linked to exacerbating all types of hair loss.
Overview: DS Laboratories always impresses me with their dedication to hair care innovation. Their Nutraceutical Tablets for Hair Growth are no exception, as they’re loaded with natural ingredients and backed by dermatologists. These tablets contain key nutrients like zinc and biotin, known for promoting healthier hair, as well as iron, which delivers oxygen to the hair follicle, reducing hair loss.
One standout is the proprietary ‘Nanosome’ delivery system, which enhances the body’s absorption of the active ingredients. The tablets also include melatonin and daidzein, which have been shown to prolong the hair’s growth stage while acting as powerful antioxidants.
A single bottle contains 30 tablets, and taking just one a day fits easily into your routine. Pairing these tablets with DS Labs’ other hair care products, such as their Revita Hair Stimulating Shampoo, can lead to even better results.
The good:
- Stimulates hair growth while reducing hair loss
- Loaded with natural ingredients
- Easy, once-a-day dosage
The bad:
- May take time to notice results
- Less effective in individuals with normal iron levels
Bottom line: DS Labs has developed a solid, research-backed hair growth supplement that tackles common deficiencies like iron. It’s a great starting point for anyone serious about combating hair thinning.
2. Hair La Vie Clinical Formula Hair Vitamins
What stands out about this vitamin supplement:
- Wide range of vitamins that support hair growth and overall body health
- Vegan-friendly and cruelty-free
- Great for both men and women
Best vitamin supplement for: Men and women looking for a well-rounded hair growth supplement that also benefits skin and nails.
Overview: Hair La Vie’s Clinical Formula Hair Vitamins are a fantastic option if you’re after an all-natural supplement for hair growth. This formula includes key vitamins such as A, B7 (biotin), D, and E, plus zinc and saw palmetto berry extract—all working together to promote not only healthier hair but also better skin and nail quality.
Vitamin A promotes cell and hair growth, while vitamin B7 (biotin) is well-known for its positive effect on hair thickness. Studies show a link between biotin deficiency and hair loss, making this an essential ingredient. Zinc, meanwhile, supports hair tissue repair and helps the follicles function properly.
Saw palmetto extract is also a great addition, as it helps balance hormone levels and reduce the production of DHT, which can lead to hair loss.
The good:
- Fights hair loss naturally, without side effects
- Suitable for both men and women
- Promotes healthier skin and nails
The bad:
- Some users report needing time to see results
Bottom line: With its well-rounded blend of vitamins and minerals, Hair La Vie offers a comprehensive supplement that addresses hair, skin, and nail health. It’s a great choice if you want a natural product that tackles multiple concerns at once.
3. Hims Edible Kit (Men only)
What stands out about this vitamin supplement:
- Contains finasteride, one of only two FDA-approved medications for hair loss
- Includes biotin for ongoing hair support
- Combines a targeted medication with a natural supplement
Best vitamin supplement for: Men with a family history of male pattern baldness, particularly those already experiencing signs of hair thinning.
Overview: Hims is well-known for offering targeted, science-backed solutions for men’s wellness, and their Edible Kit is a prime example. This kit combines biotin gummies with finasteride pills, giving men a two-pronged approach to tackling hair loss. Finasteride is key because it inhibits DHT production, which is directly linked to male pattern baldness.
The kit includes 60 biotin gummies and 30 finasteride pills (1 mg), which is the daily recommended dose for effectively reducing DHT in the scalp by around 60%. While it may take some time to see significant results, the long-term benefits are backed by solid research.
The good:
- Combines two proven hair growth supplements
- Offers a natural biotin option alongside finasteride
- Gummies are easy to take if you don’t like swallowing pills
The bad:
- A small percentage of users may experience side effects from finasteride
Bottom line: Hims provides a well-rounded solution for men dealing with male pattern baldness. The combination of finasteride and biotin offers a strong approach to preventing further hair loss and stimulating regrowth.
4. Natrol Biotin Maximum Strength Tablets
What stands out about this vitamin supplement:
- High potency biotin formula
- Provides the maximum dose of biotin for hair growth
- Also supports nail and skin health
Best vitamin supplement for: Anyone looking to maximize their biotin intake to improve hair thickness and growth.
Overview: Biotin plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy hair, and Natrol’s Maximum Strength Tablets provide a powerful dose—10,000 mcg per tablet. Biotin, or vitamin B7, helps your body convert food into energy, but it’s also a game-changer for hair strength and regrowth.
Natrol ensures that you’re getting the maximum daily dose of biotin, which can make a real difference for those suffering from thinning hair. This supplement also contains calcium, essential for overall health and hair structure. And because it’s water-soluble, you don’t have to worry about taking too much—your body will simply eliminate any excess.
The good:
- Promotes thicker, healthier hair
- Provides a potent dose of biotin
- Safe for long-term use
The bad:
- Some users report increased hair growth on other areas of the body
Bottom line: Natrol’s Biotin Maximum Strength Tablets provide a powerful boost of biotin, which can make a big difference in your hair growth efforts. If you want to focus specifically on biotin, this is one of the best supplements available.
5. Ultrax Labs Hair Rush
What stands out about this vitamin supplement:
- Great for promoting both hair growth and scalp health
- Contains wide-ranging ingredients like Gotu Kola, which reduces stress, benefiting hair retention and growth
- Supports hair health by tackling the root causes of hair thinning
Best vitamin supplement for: Men who lead busy and stressful lives and want a holistic approach to improving hair health from the inside out.
Overview: If you’re like me, balancing a busy life with concerns about thinning hair, then Ultrax Labs Hair Rush offers a different approach. It’s packed with ingredients that not only target hair growth but also support overall scalp health. One standout ingredient is Gotu Kola, which promotes blood circulation to the scalp and reduces stress—two critical factors for healthy hair growth.
DHT is often the main culprit in male pattern baldness, and Hair Rush is formulated to block it. One of the key ingredients, keratin, acts as a building block for hair and counters the effects of DHT. But there’s more than just keratin. This supplement contains nettle leaf powder, pumpkin seed oil, and L Lysine Hydrochloride, each playing a part in boosting hair strength and retaining moisture in the scalp.
The inclusion of saw palmetto further helps to inhibit DHT, making this formula highly effective. The good news? It’s completely chemical-free and safe for both men and women. For optimal results, you’ll want to stick with it for at least 90 days.
The good:
- Suitable for both men and women
- Drug-free formula with no side effects
- Improves collagen production to support hair follicles
The bad:
- Doesn’t come with a money-back guarantee
Bottom line: Ultrax Labs Hair Rush is an excellent option if you’re looking for a safe and effective way to treat hair thinning. With its holistic approach to scalp health, it works to strengthen and nourish hair from within.
6. Vital Proteins Pasture-Raised Grass-Fed Collagen Peptides
What stands out about this vitamin supplement:
- Can be easily added to your favorite health or workout drinks
- Allows for flexible dosing based on your needs
- Promotes not only hair health but also skin and joint health
Best vitamin supplement for: Men who want a versatile, easy-to-use product that supports both hair and skin health.
Overview: If you prefer a supplement that integrates seamlessly into your daily routine, Vital Proteins’ Collagen Peptides are a great choice. These peptides don’t come in pill form; instead, they’re a powder that you can easily mix into drinks like coffee, tea, or smoothies. This makes it incredibly convenient to get a daily dose of collagen—a protein essential for healthy hair, skin, and joints.
Collagen is often lacking in our diets, but it’s critical for maintaining hair structure. What I love about this product is its versatility—you can even mix it into soups or desserts without altering the flavor. Plus, it’s made from grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine, ensuring high-quality, natural collagen.
Each serving provides 20 grams of pure collagen protein, which your body quickly absorbs thanks to its small particle size. Not only is it great for your hair, but it also improves skin elasticity and nail strength.
What’s more, this product is gluten, dairy, and preservative-free, making it a clean, high-quality supplement. It even contains glycine, which benefits your immune and digestive systems.
The good:
- Easily added to drinks and food
- Quickly absorbed into the bloodstream
- 9 grams of protein (collagen) per serving
The bad:
- Not suitable for people with beef allergies
- As it’s purely collagen, you may need another supplement for broader hair health benefits
Bottom line: Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides are a versatile and convenient way to boost your hair’s health. You won’t taste it in your morning coffee, but your hair (and skin) will likely show the results. Perfect for those who want an easy, multi-benefit supplement.
Using hair growth supplements the right way (A simple, illustrated guide)
Taking hair growth supplements is more than just swallowing pills. To get the best results, you need to combine your supplement routine with good habits and realistic expectations. Here are some essential tips to help you maximize the benefits of your hair growth supplements:
1. Improve your diet, too
Supplements can’t fully compensate for a poor diet. A balanced, healthy diet is critical for overall health, including your hair. If you’re not eating well, you’re likely to face hair-related issues no matter how good your supplements are. Here are three steps to improve your diet and help your hair thrive:
- Don’t skip breakfast: It’s the most important meal of the day. Starting your day without the right nutrients deprives your hair of the building blocks it needs to grow.
- Eat healthy fats: Fats like polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats promote cell and hair growth. They help nourish your scalp, giving your hair the foundation it needs to grow stronger.
2. What can your supplement do for you?
Some supplements are better at reducing hair loss than they are at stimulating new hair growth. Look for a supplement that does both. You’ll want something that reduces hair shedding while also promoting healthy follicles for new hair.
3. Make sure your supplement blocks DHT
DHT (dihydrotestosterone) is a key hormone responsible for male pattern baldness. Supplements with DHT blockers help prevent further hair loss by keeping your hair follicles from shrinking. If male pattern baldness runs in your family, make sure your supplement targets DHT.
4. It’s not just about vitamins
Vitamins are essential, but they need support. Nutrients like iron, zinc, and protein are also crucial for hair growth. While protein strengthens hair, overdoing it can cause hair to become brittle and break. Balance is key.
5. Be patient
Hair growth takes time. Most supplements need at least three months of consistent use before you start seeing results. If your supplement comes with a money-back guarantee, that can ease the pressure of waiting to see if it works.
Essential vitamins for hair growth
Vitamins and minerals are vital for hair health, and understanding which ones are beneficial can help you make the best choices for your routine. While some claims are overblown, many vitamins and minerals have been scientifically proven to support hair growth. Here’s a breakdown of the most important ones:
Vitamin A
Vitamin A helps your scalp produce sebum, an oil that moisturizes the scalp and keeps hair healthy. But be careful—too much Vitamin A can cause hair loss. Stick to the recommended dose, and avoid exceeding 10,000 IU (2,700 mcg) per day.
Vitamin B
This group of vitamins, particularly biotin (B7), is essential for hair growth. Biotin supports cell health and helps your body convert nutrients into energy, which is crucial for hair strength. While a severe biotin deficiency is rare, marginal deficiencies can affect up to 50% of the population, leading to hair thinning.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect your hair follicles from oxidative stress. It also supports collagen production, which is essential for healthy hair growth. Foods like citrus fruits, bell peppers, and strawberries are rich in Vitamin C.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D helps create new hair follicles, promoting hair growth. A deficiency in this vitamin has been linked to conditions like alopecia. Most people don’t get enough Vitamin D from sunlight alone, so consider supplements or foods like fatty fish and fortified dairy products.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E helps maintain scalp health and promotes hair growth by reducing oxidative stress. Spinach, almonds, and avocados are good sources of Vitamin E, which also supports general well-being.
Iron
Iron deficiency is one of the most common causes of hair loss. Iron helps carry oxygen to your hair follicles, promoting growth. Meat, leafy greens, and fortified cereals are good sources of iron.
Selenium
Selenium supports hair pigmentation and helps maintain healthy hair. However, too much selenium can cause hair loss, so it’s essential to stick to the recommended dosage.
Zinc
Zinc plays a crucial role in hair tissue repair and growth. It helps keep the oil glands around hair follicles working properly. Zinc deficiency can lead to hair loss, so it’s important to include zinc-rich foods like meat, beans, and nuts in your diet.
Using vitamins to combat hair loss
Hair loss is often linked to deficiencies in vitamins and minerals. Supplements can play a significant role in slowing or even reversing hair loss, but they need to be part of a broader strategy that includes a balanced diet and proper hair care.
Why (and how) we chose these products
When selecting the best hair growth supplements, we considered several factors, including ingredient quality, customer reviews, and affordability. We focused on products that contain essential vitamins and minerals proven to support hair growth. Our goal is to provide recommendations that suit a wide range of budgets while delivering effective results.
Conclusion
Hair loss can be stressful, but there are plenty of options to help manage it. Whether you’re focusing on supplements or improving your diet, consistency is key. Have you tried any hair growth supplements? We’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences!
