Vitamin A: All cells require vitamin A for growth, including hair, the fastest growing tissue in the human body. Vitamin A helps skin glands make sebum, an oily substance that moisturizes the scalp to keep hair healthy.
B-Vitamins: One of the best known vitamins for hair growth is biotin, a B-vitamin that's used as an alternative hair-loss treatment. Other B-vitamins help create red blood cells, which carry oxygen and nutrients to the scalp and hair follicles. These processes are important for hair growth.
Vitamin C: A powerful antioxidant that helps protect against the oxidative stress caused by free radicals. Additionally, vitamin C is necessary for creating a protein known as collagen — an important part of hair structure. It also helps absorb iron, a mineral necessary for hair growth.
Vitamin D: Low levels of vitamin D are linked to alopecia, a technical term for hair loss. Research also shows that vitamin D may help create new follicles — the tiny pores in the scalp where new hair can grow.
Vitamin E: Similar to vitamin C, vitamin E is an antioxidant that can prevent oxidative stress. In one study, people with hair loss experienced a 34.5% increase in hair growth after supplementing with vitamin E for 8 months.
Vitamin B12: Essential for overall brain and nervous system function, vitamin B12 is also crucial for creating red blood cells, which nourish hair follicles with oxygen and nutrients. Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause hair loss and slowed hair growth.
Niacin (Vitamin B3): Niacin plays a role in nourishing the scalp, promoting healthy hair growth. Without adequate amounts of niacin, the hair can become brittle, lifeless, and may fall out.
Balanced vitamin-rich diets improve hair health and growth. An increased diet can give these vitamins, but some people may need supplementation if their food is insufficient or some health concerns restrict absorption. Before taking supplements, see a doctor because too much of some vitamins might cause hair loss.