Evidence supporting the use of: Algae (unspecified)
For the body system: Hair
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Algae, a broad term encompassing various aquatic, photosynthetic organisms (such as spirulina, chlorella, and kelp), has a long-standing history of traditional use in supporting hair health. In several cultures, particularly in Asia, algae have been consumed as part of the diet or applied topically for purported benefits to skin and hair. The traditional rationale is that algae are rich in minerals (like iodine, iron, and zinc), vitamins (especially B vitamins), and essential fatty acids, all of which are associated with healthy hair growth and strength. However, scientific validation specifically linking unspecified algae to significant, consistent improvements in hair health is limited. Most available studies focus on specific types of algae and are often preliminary or conducted on animal models. While nutritional deficiencies in certain minerals or vitamins (often found in algae) can contribute to hair loss or poor hair quality, direct evidence that supplementing with algae improves hair health in otherwise healthy individuals is lacking. Thus, the use of unspecified algae for hair support remains primarily rooted in tradition, with limited but plausible mechanisms based on nutrient content, rather than robust scientific backing.
Other ingredients that support Hair
amino acidsashwagandha
bamboo
biotin
bovine gelatin
ceramides
collagen
copper
fish oil
fish protein
gamma linolenic acid (GLA)
gelatin
ginseng
gooseberry
gotu kola
horsetail
iron
kelp
l-cysteine
l-cystine
l-lysine
l-methionine
l-proline
methylsulfonylmethane (MSM)
nettle
omega-3 fatty acids
omega-6 fatty acids
PABA (para-aminobenzoic acid)
pantothenic acid (vitamin B5)
pollen
polypeptide complex (proprietary)
protein
pumpkin
riboflavin (vitamin B2)
rosemary
sage
saw palmetto
selenium
silicon
keratin
vitamin A
vitamin B
vitamin B12
vitamin B6
vitamin C
vitamin D
vitamin E
seaweed
zinc
zinc
lingzhi
sunflower
trace minerals
wheat germ
herbal blend (proprietary)
algae
bladderwrack
Argan nut oil
Alkanna
Animal protein
Black Seed
Babchi
Beef
Beef liver
Bovine Protein
Curry leaf
Cetearyl alcohol
Chinese Fleeceflower
Cymbopogon Martini
Castile Soap
Cystine
DL-Methionine
Drynaria
Egg
Eclipta
Emu Oil
Egg protein
Ferritin
Fo-Ti
Fish
Fatty acids
Molasses
Quinoa Protein
Silk protein