As interest in hair loss remedies grows, many people turn to supplements and alternative therapies, but how effective are they? Experts caution that while some products show promise, most lack strong scientific backing.
Professor Shin Jung-won of Seoul National University Bundang Hospital addressed the topic on the hospital’s YouTube channel, noting that Saw Palmetto, a supplement often promoted for prostate health, has been studied for hair loss. “Some studies suggest Saw Palmetto may reduce DHT and aid hair loss, but most of these studies were small and poorly designed, making the results unreliable,” Professor Shin explained. Due to the lack of definitive safety and efficacy data, he does not recommend Saw Palmetto for treating male pattern baldness.
Melatonin has shown potential benefits for hair as well as other organs. “It is often suggested as an adjunct for hair loss patients experiencing insufficient or irregular sleep,” Professor Shin said.
Biotin and other nutrients may offer temporary support for hair growth. “Biotin might help with hair metabolism. For conditions like telogen effluvium or for women who prefer not to take medications, we sometimes recommend supplements containing biotin, B vitamins, protein, or yeast,” he noted. However, for male androgenetic alopecia, treatments that directly inhibit DHT remain far more effective than biotin or similar supplements.
The role of vitamin D in hair loss remains unclear. “There’s no conclusive evidence that vitamin D deficiency causes androgenetic alopecia,” Professor Shin said. “However, female patients with hair loss often show lower vitamin D levels. For those with significant deficiency, supplementation may be beneficial alongside other treatments.”
New DHT-inhibiting shampoos have also entered the market, but their effects are limited due to short application time. If properly tested, such shampoos can complement primary treatments, but they are not a replacement for medications.
Other approaches—including brewer’s yeast, functional cosmetics, keratin, calcium supplements, or low-temperature plasma therapy—have produced inconsistent results in small-scale studies. “Compared with established medical treatments, more research is needed to confirm their efficacy and safety,” Professor Shin emphasized.
In summary, while some supplements and alternative therapies may offer modest support, evidence strongly favors medically proven treatments for hair loss, particularly those targeting DHT. Patients considering supplements should do so cautiously and under professional guidance.
