If you watch a lot of late night television, the infomercials might have you convinced that regrowing hair and battling baldness is a simple process. Unfortunately, this isn't the case, and only a select few ingredients have been scientifically proven to promote hair growth and help prevent further hair loss. Because of this, it's important to read labels carefully and understand which ingredients can make a difference for your hair.
Niacin
According to the hair care website Hair Loss Supplements, niacin, or vitamin B3, may be an ingredient that can assist in hair growth. The website explains that niacin aids in the production of enzymes and hormones, which could prompt hair growth. In addition, niacin can help dilate your blood vessels, which may improve circulation to your scalp. This could result in superior nutrient delivery to your scalp, and possibly, hair growth. In addition, niacin reduces levels of LDL cholesterol, which can produce DHT, a hormone that inhibits hair growth.
Biotin
The website Hair Loss Supplements noted that niacin works better when used in conjunction with biotin. According to the website Hair Growth Supplements, biotin has advantages of its own. The site claims that biotin may encourage the growth of new hair as well as discourage further hair loss. Hair Growth Supplements notes that biotin cannot be absorbed through the skin, so you should use biotin supplements in pill form instead of creams. In addition, the website suggests that 30 to 100 mcg is the recommended daily dose of biotin for healthy hair.
L-Cysteine
According to the vitamin and supplement website The Way Up, the amino acid L-cysteine is an effective ingredient for encouraging hair growth. The site claims that L-cysteine is a main component of hair and that supplementation of this amino acid may improve hair growth and increase the diameter of your hair shafts, giving the appearance of fuller, healthier hair. The Way Up explains that L-cysteine is depleted by smoking, so supplementation of this amino acid may be more important for smokers.
L-Methionine
L-methionine is another amino acid, and Senior Magazine Online claims that it may be helpful in preventing baldness and encouraging hair growth. As the magazine notes, L-methionine provides your body with sulfur, which may increase hair growth. In addition, Senior Magazine Online suggests this amino acid can encourage shiny hair, strong nails and smooth skin.
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