This section covers hair thinning and hair growth products. You will find reviews, best-of guides and explainers on common causes of hair loss.We check ingredient doses against human research and note that supplements tend to help mainly when a nutrient is low. We flag very high biotin doses, side effects and refund policies.Hair loss can be linked to thyroid issues, iron levels or hormones. See your doctor for testing, and ask before use if you are pregnant.What should you check before buying a hair growth supplement?See a doctor or dermatologist to find the cause of hair loss first. Hair loss can come from genetics, stress, thyroid problems, low iron, some medicines, or scalp conditions. Treatment depends on the cause. The American Academy of Dermatology notes that many types of hair loss can be treated once the cause is known. Supplements help mainly when a deficiency exists.Source: Hair Loss, American Academy of Dermatology
Biotin helps hair mainly when you are truly deficient, and deficiency is rare in people who eat a normal diet. The only placebo-controlled trial, in 46 women, found no difference after 4 weeks of 10 mg a day. Adults need about 30 mcg daily, while hair supplements often hold 20 mg, enough to skew thyroid and troponin blood tests.
Read the label first. Then decide.
Slow, plain-language supplement reviews. We read the label, compare each dose with the research and work out the real cost. Edited by Maya Ellison.
The Well Brew is general information, not medical advice. Dietary supplements are not reviewed by the FDA for safety or effectiveness before they are sold. Talk to your doctor before you start, stop or combine supplements. Some links are affiliate links: if you buy through them we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you, and it never changes what we report.