Hair tablets are popular supplements designed to support hair growth, and many people wonder if they actually deliver results. The short answer is yes, some hair tablets can help improve hair health, especially when hair loss is linked to nutritional deficiencies.
In this article, we’ll look at what hair tablets are, how they work, which ingredients actually help, and what you should know before trying them.
Table of content
What are hair tablets?
Hair tablets are supplements taken by mouth that contain vitamins, minerals, and plant extracts aimed at improving hair growth and reducing hair loss. They often include ingredients like biotin, zinc, and collagen, which are believed to support stronger, healthier hair.
Unlike shampoos or oils that work from the outside, hair tablets work from within. They provide nutrients that may be missing from your diet or that your body needs more of when you're experiencing hair thinning or breakage.
Some tablets are made for general hair support, while others target specific issues such as hormone-related hair loss or postpartum shedding.
Results can vary from person to person depending on the cause of hair loss and how consistent you are with taking them.
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Do hair tablets really work?
Hair tablets can work, especially if your hair loss is related to a lack of certain nutrients. While they won’t reverse baldness or genetic hair loss, they may help improve hair strength, reduce shedding, and support new growth when used regularly.
Let’s take a closer look at some key ingredients commonly found in hair tablets and what science says about them:
Biotin
Biotin, also known as vitamin B7, plays an important role in keeping your hair, skin, and nails healthy. It helps your body convert nutrients into energy and supports the production of keratin, a key protein in hair.
If you're low on biotin, you might notice hair thinning or breakage. Many hair tablets include biotin because it's one of the most well-known vitamins linked to hair health.
While biotin deficiency is rare, taking biotin supplements may help improve hair strength in people with weak or brittle hair.
Zinc
Zinc is essential for healthy hair growth and repair. It also helps keep oil glands around hair follicles working properly.
A lack of zinc can lead to hair loss or slow regrowth. Supplementing with zinc has been shown to help in cases of deficiency-related hair loss, but it’s important not to take too much, as high doses can cause side effects.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D plays a role in creating new hair follicles. Studies have linked low levels of vitamin D with certain types of hair loss, including alopecia areata.
For people who don’t get enough sunlight or have low vitamin D levels, taking it as part of a hair tablet may help. However, results can take time and work best when combined with a healthy diet and lifestyle.
Saw palmetto
Saw palmetto is a natural plant extract believed to block DHT, a hormone linked to hair thinning and male pattern baldness.
Some small studies suggest that saw palmetto may slow down hair loss in both men and women, especially when caused by hormonal imbalances. It's not a guaranteed solution, but it may support hair health when used alongside other nutrients.
Collagen
Collagen is a protein that supports skin, nails, and hair. It helps provide structure to your scalp and can promote stronger hair over time.
As we age, our natural collagen levels drop, which may contribute to weaker hair. Some hair tablets include collagen or ingredients that help the body produce more of it.
Keratin
Keratin is the main protein that makes up your hair. Some supplements include keratin or help the body produce it more effectively through supporting vitamins and minerals.
While taking keratin alone won’t regrow hair, it can help improve texture, reduce frizz, and make hair appear healthier overall, especially when combined with other helpful ingredients.
Pros and cons of using hair tablets
Hair tablets can be a helpful addition to your hair care routine, but they aren’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Like any supplement, there are both benefits and limitations to keep in mind.
Pros
When taken correctly, hair tablets can offer several benefits, especially for those with nutritional gaps.
- Provide essential vitamins and minerals that support hair growth
- May reduce hair thinning or shedding caused by deficiencies
- Easy to include in your daily routine
- Often support overall skin and nail health too
Cons
Hair tablets also have a few downsides, particularly if expectations are too high or the cause of hair loss is unrelated to nutrition.
- Results can take months and may vary from person to person
- May not work for genetic or hormonal hair loss
- Some tablets contain unnecessary fillers or low-quality ingredients
- Possible side effects or interactions with other medications
Who should (and shouldn’t) use hair tablets?
Hair tablets may be helpful for some people but not ideal for everyone. It depends on the cause of hair issues and your overall health.
Suitable for:
- People with poor diets or vitamin deficiencies
- Those experiencing mild hair thinning or shedding
- Postpartum or stress-related hair loss
- Individuals looking to support their hair during seasonal changes
Not suitable for:
- People with diagnosed medical conditions like alopecia areata (without medical advice)
- Those already taking high-dose supplements that may overlap
- Anyone allergic to specific ingredients in the tablets
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women (unless cleared by a doctor)
How long do hair tablets take to work?
Hair tablets usually take around 2 to 3 months to start showing visible results, though this can vary depending on the person and the cause of hair issues.
Hair grows slowly—about 1 cm a month—so it takes time for supplements to make a noticeable difference. Most experts recommend giving a new product at least 90 days before judging its effectiveness.
Keep in mind that consistency is key. Taking the tablets regularly, eating a balanced diet, and managing stress all play a role in how well they work. If you stop too early, you may not see the full benefits.
Are there any side effects?
Hair tablets are generally safe for most people, especially when taken as directed. However, some ingredients can cause side effects or interact with other medications.
Common issues may include mild stomach upset, skin breakouts (especially with biotin), or allergic reactions. Taking high doses of certain vitamins, like vitamin A or zinc, over time can be harmful.
To stay safe, always read the label, avoid taking more than the recommended dose, and talk to your doctor if you're unsure, especially if you’re on other medications or have health conditions.
Expert tips for choosing the right hair tablets
Not all hair tablets are made equal, so it’s important to choose wisely. Here’s what to look for when picking the right supplement:
- Check for clear labelling and transparent ingredient lists
- Choose products with clinically supported ingredients like biotin, zinc, and vitamin D
- Avoid tablets with “proprietary blends” that don’t list exact dosages
- Look for third-party testing or quality certifications (e.g., GMP certified)
- Read reviews from real users with similar hair concerns
- Go for well-known, reputable brands over flashy marketing
A closer look at a gentle, science-backed option
If you're looking for a supplement to support your hair from within, it helps to choose something that focuses on quality and evidence, not just big promises.
One example is Scandinavian Biolabs Hair Nutrient Tablets, which are designed with a well-balanced mix of active ingredients.
These tablets include a blend of apple extract, horsetail extract, and essential amino acids. They're also rich in B vitamins and vitamin C, both of which are known to support healthy hair and overall wellness.
Zinc plays a key role in maintaining normal hair, while riboflavin helps protect cells from oxidative stress, an important factor in long-term hair health.
What makes these tablets stand out is the thoughtful formulation. Each ingredient is vegan and selected based on scientific literature, with third-party testing to ensure quality.
Horsetail extract provides silica, which supports hair, skin, and nail maintenance, while the inclusion of zinc and other nutrients rounds out a supplement designed to complement your diet rather than replace it.
Can hair tablets replace a hair care routine?
Hair tablets can support your hair health, but they shouldn’t replace your regular hair care routine. They work best when used alongside good scalp hygiene, gentle products, and a healthy lifestyle.
Supplements can provide internal support, especially if your hair issues are linked to poor nutrition or stress. But external care—like using the right shampoo, avoiding heat damage, and maintaining a clean scalp—is still essential for overall results.
Think of hair tablets as one part of a bigger picture. They’re helpful, but not a cure-all. If you're experiencing major hair changes, it’s always best to take a combined approach and seek professional advice when needed.
Conclusion
Hair tablets can be a helpful tool for improving hair health, especially when used to fill gaps in your diet or support your body during times of stress or change.
While they aren’t a miracle cure, ingredients like biotin, zinc, vitamin D, and plant extracts may help strengthen hair and reduce shedding for some people.
They work best when used consistently and alongside a healthy lifestyle and proper hair care.
Whether you're just starting to notice changes or looking to give your hair an extra boost, hair tablets might be worth considering, with realistic expectations and the right product.
References:
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5582478/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28879195/
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9569759/
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1756464624001269
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2861201/
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3870206/
