Following Rapunzel: with vitamins and nutrients for fast hair growth

To keep our hair and skin healthy, not only external but also internal care and nourishment are of paramount importance. We can use any first-class cosmetic product if we regularly go to bed after midnight and if junk food is a major part of our diet. In a previous article, you read about what to eat to keep your hair and scalp healthy, but now let’s take a look at the vitamins and nutrients that are specifically for hair growth. And if you’re excited about the glamorous world of skincare, click here for more content.

Collagen

The main component of our hair is a protein called keratin. The body uses many amino acids to build keratin — some of which are also found in collagen. Collagen is mainly composed of 3 non-essential amino acids, glycine, hydroxyproline and proline. Proline is also the major constituent of keratin, so consuming collagen rich in proline provides the body with the building blocks it needs to create hair. Collagen also acts as an antioxidant, fighting free radicals that damage hair follicles and preventing damage to the hair so it can grow healthier and faster.

Biotin, or vitamin B7

One of the best-known and most popular skincare and hair growth vitamins is biotin, also known as vitamin B7, whose persistent low levels have been linked to increased hair loss. Fortunately, deficiencies are rare, as B vitamins occur naturally in many foods, and in combination with other B vitamins, enhancing each other’s effects. B vitamins have also been shown to play a role in the formation of red blood cells, which transport oxygen and essential nutrients to the scalp and hair follicles, which are essential for hair growth and health.

Coconut and coconut oil

According to a clinical study, coconut extract applied to the scalp helps to enrich its microbiome and is able to enhance the health of the scalp and hair follicles, which is an important prerequisite for healthier and faster hair growth. Coconut oil contains hair-protecting fatty acids called lauric acids, which penetrate the hair shaft and reduce protein loss from the hair. Massage the coconut oil into the scalp, distribute it through the hair, leave it on for a few minutes or even a few hours, and then wash your hair. Although more research is needed on the hair growth-stimulating effects of coconut oil, it has been demonstrated that regular use moisturises and protects the scalp, hair and hair follicles, and prevents hair breakage.

Vitamin D

The actual role of vitamin D in hair growth is currently unknown, but it has been proven that baldness (alopecia) is associated with abnormally low levels of vitamin D. Vitamin D levels can be boosted by safe sun exposure or by consuming dairy products, mushrooms, yeasts and dietary supplements.

MSM

MSM is a sulphur compound found naturally in plants, animals and humans, and can also be produced synthetically, known mainly for its anti-inflammatory properties. It can be used orally and topically for a wide range of conditions, including painful arthritis, tendonitis and osteoporosis. However, few people know that MSM is also beneficial for hair health. Studies have found that MSM can form bonds that are essential for strengthening hair keratin and hair growth. Foods rich in MSM include coffee, tea, beer, milk, tomatoes, green leafy vegetables, whole grains, apples and raspberries.

Red ginseng

Used for centuries, red ginseng is not only used to boost brain function, cognitive function and libido. It has also been reported that taking ginseng in tablet form can stimulate hair follicles and consequently help increase hair growth. The positive effects of ginseng on hair are presumably due to its active ingredient, ginsenosides.

Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids

It has been scientifically proven that regular consumption of omega-essential fatty acids can improve hair from the inside, as they are extremely rich in proteins and hair-protecting nutrients that also build hair. Taking omega-3 and omega-6 in dietary or supplemental form helps to improve hair density and thickness, and also reduces hair loss, specifically when taken in combination with other antioxidants. Fish and seeds can be consumed to supplement omega fatty acids and nutritional supplements can be used to enhance the effect.

Rosemary essential oil

Rosemary essential oil is also often used to promote hair growth and reduce hair loss. Studies have shown that rosemary oil is extremely effective in stimulating new hair growth. Essential oils mustn’t be applied directly to the skin in undiluted form, as this can irritate. Instead, use a shampoo containing rosemary oil or add a few drops of the oil to your shampoo.

Which do you consume regularly? Can you add anything else to the list?

References:

https://www.verywellhealth.com/foods-for-hair-growth-8598578

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/foods-for-hair-growth

https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/health/diet-nutrition/g26975180/food-for-hair-growth/