8 Best Vitamins for Hair Growth That Actually Work

Whether you’re looking to add volume and vitality back to your hair or you’ve been suffering from hair loss, it’s likely you’ve considered the best vitamins for hair growth. According to Dr. Hardik Doshi, lead surgeon in hair restoration at Ample, it’s important to first understand that hair loss can stem from many factors, including nutrition. The initial approach should involve addressing any deficiencies through a well-rounded diet packed with essential vitamins and minerals to support hair growth and prevent excessive shedding. “If considering supplements, consulting a healthcare professional is advisable to assess requirements, potential risks, and how they may interact with existing health conditions or medications,” he says. However, if all checks out and you’re looking for a new vitamin to add to your medicine cabinet, keep reading for some of our expert-approved recommendations.

Our Top Picks

• Best Overall: Nutrafol Hair Growth Supplements, $79
• Best Gummy: Vegamour Gro Biotin Gummies, $34
• Best for Digestion: Wellbel Clean Supplement for Hair, Skin, and Nails, $65
• Best With Biotin: Grande Cosmetics Vegan Collagen Hair Vitamin Gummies, $30
• Best With Probiotics: Love Wellness Healthy Hair Probiotics, $17
• Best for Stress-Related Hair Loss: Divi Hair Vitamins, $61
• Best for Hair Restoration: Viviscal Hair Growth Supplements, $32

In This Story

• What are hair growth vitamins/do they actually work?
• What vitamins/ingredients are good for thinning hair?
• Who should take these supplements & what is the best way to consume?
• Which vitamin deficiency may cause hair loss
• Are there any side effects to be aware of?
• How long do hair growth vitamins take to work?
• Meet the Experts

Best Overall: Nutrafol Hair Growth Vitamins

• Why we like it: When discussing hair growth, Nutrafol almost always comes up in conversation as the brand is recommended by many of the leading dermatologists. “Nutrafol is plant-based and science-backed. It gives you the building blocks for hair growth but also affects other systems that affect hair growth and well-being,” says board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Jennifer Gordon. There are multiple formulations tailored for men, women, different age groups, and life experiences, like post-partum. The women's formula, here, is clinically tested to deliver the necessary vitamins, minerals, and natural ingredients women age 18 to 44 keen to address hair thinning.
• How to Use It: Take four capsules once daily.
• When to Expect Results: Visible results in three to six months
• Key Ingredients: Saw palmetto, ashwagandha, organic maca root

Best Gummy: Vegamour Biotin Supplement

• Why we like it: Vegamour’s shampoos, conditioners, and styling products aren’t just our favorites for promoting healthy hair; they also offer supplements in both gummy and powder forms. According to Dr. Gordon, these biotin gummies are “natural, vegan, and contain MCT oil, which is excellent for stress relief and antioxidant properties. They are easy to take (just once daily) and are designed to be clean.” Plus, they’re strawberry flavored for those who prefer a delicious gummy versus a pill or capsule.
• How to Use It: Take one gummy daily.
• When to Expect Results: Visible results in three to four months
• Key Ingredients: Biotin, folic acid, vitamins A, B-5, C, E , 6 and 12

Best for Digestion: Wellbel Vegan Hair Growth Supplement

• Why we like it: According to functional nutrition and women’s hormone expert Alisa Vitti, Wellbel’s herbal blend incorporates herbs such as saw palmetto, which are particularly beneficial for women dealing with androgenic-related hair loss issues. However, she explains that what sets it apart is the inclusion of Betaine HCL, supporting protein absorption in individuals with low stomach acid. This condition, more common than many realize, serves as a root cause for various symptoms, including peeling nails, poor hair growth, anxiety, difficulty digesting meals containing animal protein, belching and bloating after meals, and an expanding list of food sensitivities. “If you suspect you have low stomach acid, Wellbel would be a good choice,” she says.
• How to Use It: Take three capsules once daily.
• When to Expect Results: Visible results within 90 days
• Key Ingredients: Saw palmetto fruit extract, Stinging nettle leaf, PABA Betaine HCI

Best With Biotin: Grande Cosmetics Vegan Collagen Gummies

• Why we like it: Not only are these vegan collagen gummies adorable pink hearts, but you’ll enjoy taking them because they’re simply delicious. They primarily consist of biotin (vitamin B7) and collagen, which, according to Dr. Doshi, “could enhance skin and hair health.” However, he doesn’t recommend taking more than the allotted amount per day. “While biotin contributes to the health of hair and nails, excessive intake may not provide advantages beyond meeting requirements.”
• How to Use It: Take two gummies daily, with or without food.
• When to Expect Results: 45 days
• Key Ingredients: Biotin, Folic Acid, Vitamin C, Zinc

Best Probiotic: Love Wellness Healthy Hair Probiotics

• Why we like it: This supplement isn’t just packed with probiotics; it also includes Vitamins B12, B6, and the favorite of many: biotin. While further research is needed to fully understand the role of probiotics in combating hair loss, this probiotic formula contains AnaGain Nu, a clinically-tested protein meant to target underlying causes of hair loss, including hormones, environmental factors, stress-related hair loss, et etc.
• How to Use It: Take one capsule daily with or without food.
• When to Expect Results: 4-8 weeks of daily use.
• Key Ingredients: Vitamin B12, Vitamin B6, Biotin

Best for Stress-Related Hair Loss: Divi Hair Vitamins

• Why we like it: Sometimes, it takes more than collagen powder and prayers to enhance the strength and health of your hair. Enter these vitamins from Divi, which feature a blend of KSM-66 ashwagandha root extract and a complex of arginine silicate and magnesium biotinate to boost your hair health. And if you’re particular about what you put in your body (fair enough!), these are free from dairy, egg, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, sesame, wheat, and gluten.
• How to Use It: Take four capsules daily with food.
• When to Expect Results: After 90 days of consistent use.
• Key Ingredients: KSM-66 Ashwagandha Root Extract, Arginine Silicate, Magnesium Biotinate

Best for Hair Restoration: Viviscal Hair Growth Supplements

• Why we like it: Viviscal Hair Growth Supplements are renowned for their potent blend of minerals, vitamins, and nutrients purported to bolster hair growth. Dr. Doshi elaborates, “Ingredients such as biotin, iron, zinc, vitamin C, and a marine protein complex present in Viviscal are thought to promote hair health.” Additionally, clinical studies have been conducted to support claims of thicker, fuller hair.
• How to Use It: Take two pills daily.
• When to Expect Results: After 90 days of consistent use.
• Key Ingredients: Zinc, vitamin C, iron, and niacin

Best For Hair, Skin, And Nails: Pure Encapsulations Hair/Skin/Nails Ultra

• Why we like it: Functional medicine pharmacist Dr. John Kim vouches for this brand, saying it specializes in “high-quality, hypoallergenic supplements” that are “free from common allergens, unnecessary additives, and artificial ingredients.” This particular formula is packed with vitamin C, zinc, copper, manganese, biotin, and silica to help improve the appearance of your hair, skin, and nails. Hello, beauty sleep!
• How to Use It: Take two capsules daily, with food.
• When to Expect Results: N/A
• Key Ingredients: Vitamin C, Niacin, Folate, Biotin, Zinc, Copper, Manganese, Collagen

Hair growth is very complicated, dependent on each individual’s situation, and often requires a multimodal approach. According to Dr. Gordon, “[The best vitamins for hair growth] are definitely helpful, and if you are deficient in any of the amino acids, omega acids, or other vitamins, then they are necessary to provide you with the building blocks to grow hair.” She continues, many hair growth gummies and capsules also contain plant extracts and other natural ingredients that can mimic some pharmaceutical hair growth medications as well as provide novel mechanisms for hair growth. Some can also help with hormonal changes, stress, and other ailments.

However, as Vitti explains, taking more micronutrients doesn’t always lead to more hair growth for two main reasons: first, the body gets rid of what it can’t use, and second, people with gut issues might have trouble absorbing nutrients properly. Plus, results can take a long time—think three to six months to notice any real change. It’s also so difficult to be stuck in the cycle of stress and hair loss (which causes more stress), so make sure you look at your overall wellness and health if you choose to add these vitamins into your diet.

According to Dr. Gordon and Dr. Kim, iron and vitamin D are among the most common deficiencies observed in hair loss, along with vitamin Bs and amino acids (protein). Some ingredients they recommend include:

• Saw Palmetto: This natural blocker of dihydrotestosterone plays a significant role in hair loss. While you should discuss the pros and cons with your provider, it’s considered an effective ingredient.
• Ashwagandha: An antioxidant known to help with stress and shown to support hair growth and reduce breakage.
• Tocotrienol: This can increase hair density.
• Curcumin: Known to reduce dihydrotestosterone, which is linked to hair loss.
• Collagen: While the verdict is still out on its effectiveness, anecdotal evidence and research suggest collagen supplements may promote hair growth, strength, and have positive effects on skin and nails.
• Biotin: Once hailed as the best hair growth vitamin, it has somewhat fallen out of favor due to lack of data. In general, it shouldn’t harm you, but high levels may lead to acne or affect certain lab values.
• Minoxidil: “Minoxidil is a topical treatment that stimulates hair follicles and prolongs the growth phase of the hair cycle,” says Kim. It’s widely used for androgenetic alopecia (pattern baldness) and can help with regrowth in some individuals. However, it must be used consistently, as stopping it can lead to hair loss resuming.
• Zinc: Kim explains that zinc helps maintain oil glands around hair follicles, ensuring they function properly. It also plays a role in DNA and RNA production, which are critical for hair follicle health. Adequate zinc levels can prevent hair shedding and support healthy growth.
• Omega-3 and Omega-6 Fatty Acids: Kim highlights that Omega-3s, particularly EPA and DHA found in fish oil, have anti-inflammatory properties that can help open hair follicles and promote growth. They also nourish the hair shaft, adding elasticity and shine. Omega-6 fatty acids, particularly alpha-linolenic acid, are essential for skin and hair health. They help maintain the barrier function of the scalp, keeping it hydrated and reducing inflammation. A healthy scalp environment is critical for robust hair growth.
• Vitamin A: According to Kim, vitamin A is essential for cell growth, including hair cells. It also helps the scalp produce sebum, a natural oil that moisturizes the scalp and keeps hair healthy. However, too much vitamin A can lead to hair loss, so balance is crucial.
• Vitamin C: Kim notes that vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect hair follicles from oxidative stress. It's also vital for collagen production, which strengthens the hair structure.
• Vitamin D: As mentioned, vitamin D helps create new hair follicles and may prevent hair thinning and loss. Sunlight is a natural source of vitamin D, but supplementation may be necessary in cases of deficiency.

According to Vitti, if you feel like your daily caffeine intake, medication use, alcohol consumption, menstrual cycle or periods of intense stress, dieting, or exercise routines are depleting your micronutrient levels, taking supplements can be incredibly beneficial to replenish them.

However, most people can take the majority of these supplements. Ideally, there should be different formulations tailored to different genders, ages, and other factors. If you’re attempting to conceive or are pregnant, certain ingredients should be avoided, cautions Dr. Gordon.

According to Dr. Gordon, vitamin D and B deficiencies are among the most commonly observed in hair loss cases. While they may not always be the direct cause, they are essential building blocks for hair growth. “Other important labs to check include blood counts to ensure you aren’t anemic, as well as thyroid function, among others,” she adds. Per Kim, several nutritional deficiencies are linked to hair loss, including:

• Iron Deficiency: “Iron is crucial for red blood cell production, which delivers oxygen to hair follicles,” says Kim. A deficiency can lead to thinning hair and even hair loss. Iron deficiency is particularly common in women due to menstrual blood loss, making it one of the most prevalent nutritional deficiencies associated with hair loss. Ensuring adequate iron levels through diet or supplementation can help support healthy hair growth; good sources of iron include red meat and leafy green vegetables like spinach.
• Vitamin D Deficiency: Vitamin D plays a role in the creation of new hair follicles, and a deficiency can result in slow hair growth or hair loss, explains Kim. He says, "It's best to get natural sunlight to create your own vitamin D—go for a brisk walk either early in the morning or later in the day and get 15 to 20 minutes of sun exposure." He also recommends oral vitamin D supplementation, adding that it's important to include a magnesium supplement to help convert vitamin D into its active form.
• Zinc Deficiency: Kim explains that zinc is essential for tissue growth and repair, including hair. “Low levels of zinc can lead to hair thinning or loss.”
• Biotin (Vitamin B7) Deficiency: Biotin supports the production of keratin, the protein that makes up hair. "A deficiency can cause brittle hair and hair loss," says Kim.
• Protein Deficiency: Hair is primarily made of protein. "Inadequate protein intake can cause hair to become weak and fall out," says Kim.
• Iodine Deficiency: "Iodine deficiency can cause hair loss, as iodine is a crucial mineral needed for the production of thyroid hormones, which regulate many bodily functions, including hair growth," explains Kim. When iodine levels are low, the thyroid gland can't produce enough hormones, leading to a condition called hypothyroidism. Ensuring adequate iodine intake through diet, or supplementation if necessary, is important for maintaining healthy thyroid function and preventing hair loss related to iodine deficiency.

“There are always potential side effects,” says Dr. Gordon, emphasizing the importance of sourcing botanicals from reputable sources due to limited studies. While many botanicals target dihydrotestosterone, which may lead to low testosterone side effects, such occurrences are generally rare. Excessive biotin intake can result in acne and should be discontinued before certain blood tests to avoid lab interference. Iron supplements may cause constipation, and collagen may induce diarrhea or gastrointestinal upset in some individuals.

“Hair growth is a slow process, with hair typically growing about half an inch per month,” explains Kim. Hair growth vitamins, which often include biotin, vitamin D, zinc, and other nutrients, are designed to support the body’s natural hair growth cycle. However, results may vary depending on factors such as genetics, gut absorption issues, hormonal dysfunction (e.g., PCOS), poor thyroid function, diet, and lifestyle factors like stress. Despite these challenges, he notes that with the right approach, some individuals may start noticing improvements in hair texture and reduced shedding within a few weeks, while significant growth and thicker hair strands may take three to six months. As with any other kind of supplement intake, consistency is key—“stopping supplementation or failing to address root issues like hormone imbalances and gut health can quickly undo the progress made in achieving healthy hair growth,” says Dr. Kim.

• Dr. Hardik Doshi is a double board-certified plastic surgeon and the lead surgeon for hair restoration at Ample.
• Dr. Jennifer Gordon is a board-certified dermatologist at Westlake Dermatology.
• Alisa Vitti, HHC, AADP, is a functional nutrition and women’s hormone expert, the founder of modern hormone health care company FLO Living.
• Dr. John Kim is a functional medicine pharmacist and the founder of Dr. Kim Wellness in New Jersey.