The product is said to improve “hair strength and elasticity”
Most of us dream of having thicker, shinier hair. If you’re one of the lucky ones already blessed with luscious locks, how to maintain this might be on your mind.
The health of hair can be put down to so many factors including age, genetics, medication, diet, overall health and environmental exposure. While many of these factors are out of our hands, some are more controllable.
It is widely acknowledged that vitamins and minerals play a part of our hair health and the cycle of hair follicles.
A hair follicle is a tube-like structure (pore) that surrounds the root and strand of a hair.
According, to research published by the National Library of Medicine: “Vitamins and minerals are important for normal cell growth and function and may contribute to hair loss when they are deficient.”
With this is mind many of us are turning to vitamins and minerals supplements including gummies in the hopes of healthier hair.
However the same research states that “while supplementation is relatively affordable and easily accessible, it is important to know which vitamins and minerals are helpful in treating hair loss.”
The research also states that answering questions about which nutrients can help hair growth is difficult “given the enormous and conflicting evidence that exists on this subject”.
With such varied research and so many options on the market it can be hard to know what to buy.
One TikToker has taken to the social media platform to share a vitamin hair gummy available in Superdrug claiming that her hair has “never looked better”.
Hair gummies are dietary supplements made from a soft substance which contain nutrients such as minerals and vitamins.
The product in question is the Hairburst chewable hair vitamins which is £21.75 for a “one month supply” or 73p per gummy.
The product is said to contribute to “hair strength and elasticity”.
The product contains vitamins B5, B12, B6, zinc, sodium selenite, and biotin among other ingredients including sugar and sweetener.
Part of the product warning states: “Dietary supplements should not be used as a substitute for a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle.” It is advisable to read the full product warnings before using the product.
According to Healthline, nutrients that can play a part in hair health are protein, vitamin A, vitamin B12, vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin E, biotin (B7), iron, selenium and zinc.
However they also reported: “Despite the widespread use of hair vitamins and supplements, there’s little clinical data to support their ability to treat hair conditions.
“While certain nutrients have been linked to better hair health, most studies have shown that hair supplements are only effective in people whose hair issues are caused by an existing nutrient deficiency.”
Advice from one NHS patient pamphlet said: “A lack of certain vitamins or minerals, especially iron and protein, can contribute to hair loss. A blood test can confirm any deficiencies and will be requested by the clinician in clinic if they feel it is appropriate.
Supplements designed for hair health can be beneficial; these can be bought over the counter at most pharmacies.”
