B vitamins (such as biotin, methylcobalamin and niacinamide) all play different unique roles in maintaining hair health. Biotin helps support the formation of keratin, the key structural protein that makes up hair. Research suggests a deficiency may be associated with changes in hair density. Methylcobalamin (B12) helps fuel the energy needed inside each hair follicle cell and helps maintain healthy hair growth cycles. Niacinamide may also foster hair health and promote natural hair growth by aiding blood flow to the scalp.1,2,3,4
Zinc is essential for supporting hair tissue growth and recovery, and helps keep the oil glands around each follicle working properly. When zinc levels drop, the protein structure of the hair follicle can break down, which may lead to shedding and changes in hair density. Literature has described how adequate zinc status may play a role in supporting the integrity of hair. 5,6,11
Iron is needed to make hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body and to the hair follicles. Without adequate oxygen delivery, follicles may not maintain healthy function.7,8,10
Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) plays two important roles in maintaining hair health. It’s a required cofactor for the enzymes that build collagen (which may support the hair shaft structure and help manage breakage) and may function as a meaningful antioxidant that may help shield hair follicles from oxidative damage that may cause hair concerns.9