The Best Hair Supplements That Actually Help With Thinning Hair For Women Over 40

The biotin and iron in this supplement make the most difference because the most common reason behind hair loss is a deficiency of biotin and iron, Dr. Batra claims. “Viviscal will work great if the reason behind your hair loss is a deficiency,” Dr. Batra adds. “Of course, watching your diet is also equally important. If you continue eating junk, the supplement will not do much for you. But if you’re facing severe hair loss because of an underlying disease or condition then it's important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause and the most appropriate treatment options. Because you’ll need to treat the underlying cause before you can worry about your hair loss — because it might just be comorbidity.”

KeraHealth Hair Women & FoliGROWTH hair supplement

Trichologist Celestine Gitau, who is a writer for Hair and Scalp Health, says she is also a fan of Viviscal, but two additional supplements she recommends include KeraHealth Hair Women and FoliGROWTH hair supplement.

According to Gitau, the most effective ingredients present in these supplements include: Saw palmetto, a natural DHT blocker that helps stop DHT-related hair thinning;  Curcumin, which inhibits the production of DHT  to stop thinning; vitamin D, one of the leading causes of hair thinning through telogen effluvium, and marine collagen, which increases hair density. 

These supplements are especially helpful for people with genetic hair thinning, those suffering from telogen effluvium caused by nutritional deficiencies, and women in menopause who are experiencing hair shedding. 

What are the limitations of hair supplements? 

Sadly, there is no one cure-all for hair thinning — it may take a combination of strategies to help. 

“While hair supplements can be a helpful addition to your hair care routine, they cannot work alone in providing all the benefits,” Says Dr. Methil. “They should not be relied upon for the sole treatment for hair thinning. A comprehensive approach that includes addressing any underlying health issues, reducing stress, and maintaining a healthy diet and hair care regimen will likely provide the most effective results.”

Also, It can take several weeks or months of consistent use before you start to see any noticeable improvement in hair growth or thickness, Dr. Methil reminds us. “Overuse of these supplements can lead to side effects,” she says. “For example, biotin supplements can interfere with certain blood tests, and high doses of vitamin A can be toxic.”

Other tips for hair shedding

First and foremost, visit a board-certified dermatologist or trichologist if you are experiencing hair shedding so that you can come up with a personalized plan for your hair loss concerns. In the meantime, Dr. Methil mentions several important steps you can take at home to get on top of it: 

Eat Well: “Eating a balanced diet that is rich in nutrients, such as protein, iron, and vitamins A, C, and E, can help to promote healthy hair growth,” Dr. Methil says. 

Squash stress: “Stress can contribute to hair thinning and hair loss,” Dr. Methil says. “Finding ways to reduce stress, such as practicing mindfulness meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises, can help to promote hair health.”

Be Gentle: “Avoid harsh treatments like chemical treatments, such as hair dyes, perms, and relaxers can damage hair and contribute to hair damage,” Dr. Methil says. 

Look Into Topical Treatments: “There are several hair growth treatments available, such as minoxidil and finasteride, that can help to slow down or even reverse hair loss. These treatments should be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional.”

It’s easy to worry when your hair begins to thin and shed. But there are supplements, lifestyle changes, and hair care professionals who can help make a difference.