Evidence supporting the use of: Vitamin B3 (nicotinamide)
For the health condition: Hair (loss or thinning)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Vitamin B3, specifically in the form of nicotinamide (also known as niacinamide), has been investigated for its potential role in supporting hair health, including addressing hair loss or thinning. The scientific evidence supporting its use, however, is limited and largely preliminary. Nicotinamide is known for its role in cellular metabolism and DNA repair, and it may improve scalp health by enhancing skin barrier function and reducing inflammation. Some small studies and clinical observations suggest that formulations containing nicotinamide—sometimes in combination with other vitamins and minerals—may promote increased hair fullness or density. For example, a 2017 randomized, placebo-controlled trial found that a supplement containing nicotinamide, along with biotin and other micronutrients, modestly improved hair thickness in women with thinning hair. However, these studies often use combinations of ingredients, making it difficult to isolate the effect of nicotinamide alone.

The mechanism by which nicotinamide could influence hair growth is not fully understood, but it is thought to involve improved microcirculation to hair follicles and support of keratin synthesis. Despite some plausible biological roles, there is not enough high-quality, large-scale, or long-term evidence to strongly validate nicotinamide as a primary treatment for hair loss. As a result, while there is some scientific rationale and early clinical data, the overall strength of evidence is moderate to low.

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