Vitamins for hair: biotin, zinc and selenium

When reading about vitamins for hair, distinguish between maintaining normal hair and promises of more hair, faster growth or reduced hair loss. This guide explains relevant authorised claims and how to read food supplement information.

Which nutrients have authorised hair claims?

Biotin is a vitamin. Zinc, selenium and copper are minerals. The following health claims are authorised in the EU:

• Biotin contributes to the maintenance of normal hair.
• Zinc contributes to the maintenance of normal hair.
• Selenium contributes to the maintenance of normal hair.
• Copper contributes to normal hair pigmentation.

These claims have specific conditions of use. A product must, among other requirements, contain the required amount of the relevant nutrient. Its presence on an ingredient list is not sufficient by itself. This overview does not describe the composition of any particular product.

Normal hair does not mean increased hair growth

The maintenance claims are not promises of thicker or longer hair, faster growth or prevention of hair loss. The copper claim does not promise to prevent or reverse grey hair.

An authorised claim about cell division, energy metabolism or the immune system cannot simply be extended to hair growth. This guide therefore attributes no special hair benefit to vitamins A, C, D, E or other B vitamins, iron, silica or omega-3.

Supplements and a varied diet

Food supplements are intended to supplement the normal diet. They should not replace a varied, balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. Wanting to change the appearance of your hair does not by itself establish a need for a supplement.

Hair appearance alone cannot tell you whether you lack a particular vitamin or mineral. Ask a qualified healthcare professional if you are unsure about your individual needs.

How to read a supplement label

• Read the ingredients and nutrient amounts per recommended daily portion.
• Check the intended users, age limits and warnings.
• Follow the recommended daily dose and do not exceed it.
• Check for overlapping ingredients if you take several supplements.
• Keep supplements out of the reach of young children.

A higher dose or more ingredients is not in itself evidence of a better effect on hair. Consult a doctor or pharmacist if you take medication, are pregnant or breastfeeding and are unsure about using a supplement.

What if you notice hair loss?

Do not choose a food supplement as a treatment for hair loss. If hair loss is sudden, patchy or persistent, or you notice other concerning changes, seek medical advice. An article or supplement cannot establish the cause.

Frequently asked questions

Which vitamins are best for hair?

There is no supplement that can be described as best for everyone. Biotin, zinc and selenium have authorised claims about maintaining normal hair. These do not establish that a particular supplement will produce visible results for everyone.

How soon can I expect results?

Claims about normal hair do not justify promising a visible change within a particular number of weeks or months. This guide makes no promise of a specific result or deadline.

Can supplements repair split ends?

Maintenance claims do not demonstrate that a supplement can repair split ends or damaged hair lengths.

Sources and scope

This overview is based on the EU list of authorised health claims and food supplement marketing rules. The claims concern the named nutrients and apply only under their conditions of use.

• EU 432/2012
• EU 1924/2006