Save Your Money! Experts Warn These 3 Hair Growth Supplements Rarely Work

That doesn’t mean that a supplement that contains MSM along with other ingredients for hair growth should be ruled out — just that it shouldn’t be counted on a singular solution. 

Bamboo Extract

“Bamboo extract is often marketed for its high silica content, which is believed to benefit hair health and growth,” Backe says. “However, the scientific evidence supporting the direct effectiveness of bamboo extract for hair growth is limited, and more research is needed to establish its efficacy.”

Horsetail Extract

Horsetail extract is rich in minerals, particularly silica, Backe says, which is believed to strengthen hair and promote growth. But, just as with MSM and bamboo extract, the research simply isn’t abundant. “While silica is important for hair health, there is insufficient scientific evidence to support the use of horsetail extract as a standalone ingredient for significant hair growth,” Backe says. 

What works instead? 

If you want hair growth ingredients that have been proven to help, it’s important to choose those that are backed by evidence. 

Iron and Zinc

Put simply, iron and zinc are essential minerals for hair health. “Deficiencies in these minerals can contribute to hair loss,” Backe says. “In cases where hair loss is associated with iron or zinc deficiencies, supplementing with these minerals can help restore hair growth. It is important to note that supplementation should only be done under the guidance of a healthcare professional after proper diagnosis of any deficiencies.”

In other words: adding a ton more iron or zinc to your diet when you don’t have a deficiency isn’t going to create new hair, and it can be harmful to your health. 

Minoxidil

“Minoxidil is an FDA-approved topical medication for hair loss,” Backe says. “It is available over-the-counter and has been shown to promote hair growth in both men and women. Minoxidil is believed to stimulate hair follicles, increase blood flow to the scalp, and extend the hair growth cycle.”

Finasteride 

Finasteride is an FDA-approved oral medication for male pattern baldness, Backe explains. “It works by reducing the levels of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone linked to hair loss in genetically susceptible individuals. Finasteride has been shown to effectively slow down hair loss and promote hair regrowth in men.”

Hair loss and shedding can be stressful. But knowing which ingredients can work and which are just a waste of time and money is one way to help take some of that stress off your plate and help you find a solution that works.