6 supplements to help grow and strengthen hair

Shedding more hair than usual these days? You’re not alone. Hair loss can be caused by hormones, stress, age or illness. While diet and genetics play a role in your ability to sport luscious locks, there are also some nutrients you can add to your regime to regain your bounce. 

1) Collagen  

Collagen, the most abundant protein in your body, acts like a building block for your hair, skin and nails. It’s a natural source of the amino acids your body needs to build keratin, a protein that supports hair strength and growth. It also promotes a healthy scalp and helps fight free radicals that can damage the cells that produce hair color, meaning it can actually help to slow graying.* 

2) MSM  

Methylsulfonylmethane is a sulfur compound that helps your body produce collagen, elastin, and keratin – major building blocks for your hair.*  It also provides antioxidant support to help fight free radicals that can damage hair follicles and lead to premature aging.* MSM is found in a variety of foods, but only in small amounts. A supplement may be especially beneficial for people who avoid meat, a major source of sulfur-containing amino acids.  

3) Ashwagandha 

This adaptogenic super root helps fight one of the most common causes of hair loss: stress. When times are tough, your body produces cortisol. When left unchecked, this infamous stress hormone wreaks havoc on the health of your hair follicle—signaling it to stunt hair growth and increase shedding. Ashwagandha is clinically proven to help relieve stress by keeping this hormone balanced.*  

4) Horsetail Extract  

This lesser-known plant has long been used for its antioxidant properties. It’s rich in silica, a mineral that supports hair strength and elasticity. It’s also a natural source of nutrients needed for hair growth. In fact, people who supplemented with horsetail showed increased hair growth after just three months.¹

5) CoQ10 

This one might be surprising, as CoQ10 is typically touted for its cardiovascular benefits. Research has connected CoQ10 with increased cellular energy and blood flow which can help support the high energy demands of your hair follicles. CoQ10 may also stimulate the gene responsible for producing different types of hair keratins, especially the ones that are reduced during aging.²

6) Flaxseed Lignans 

Flaxseeds are nature’s richest source of plant-based omega-3s and lignans, a plant-based compound with healthy benefits. Omega-3s help nourish your hair follicles while flax lignans help inhibit the production of DHT, a form of testosterone that can shrink hair follicles and thin hair.* 

Need help with supplements?   

When it comes to supplements, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. If you’re not sure where to start, take Persona’s free nutrition assessment, and learn exactly what you need to take your wellness to the next level.   

About Emily 

Emily is a registered dietitian with a master’s degree in health communications. She is a self-proclaimed nutrition nerd and has a knack for translating nutrition science into everyday tips and resources.  Emily is just one of Persona’s team of qualified nutritionists. Do you have questions about nutrition? Reach out. Our experts would love to help.    

This information is not intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional or any information contained on or in any product label or packaging. Do not use the information from this article for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before taking any medication or nutritional, herbal or homeopathic supplement, or using any treatment for a health problem. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, contact your health care provider promptly. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking professional advice because of something you have read in this article.