Today, researchers know more than ever about the causes of hair loss. In addition to medications, serums, hairpieces, transplant procedures and other options for hair restoration, there has been a recent surge in the popularity of natural treatments to stimulate hair growth. But do any of these at-home hair growth remedies really work?
Everything from aloe vera to apple cider vinegar, ginger, yogurt, baking soda and even raw onion juice has been touted as a miracle cure that will not only grow new hair, but also increase the health and shine of the hair you still have. Let’s take a closer look at three of the most common, natural, at-home treatments for hair growth.
#1: Biotin and Other Vitamins
Biotin is a B complex vitamin (Vitamin H) found in many foods including leafy vegetables, eggs, dairy, carrots, beans and mushrooms. The right balance of biotin in the body helps stabilize blood sugar levels and metabolize fatty acids and amino acids. Hair loss and breakage are symptomatic of a biotin deficiency, so the idea is that taking biotin supplements can promote healthy hair and skin. Biotin is also thought to increase the elasticity of hair, reducing breakage.
To try it: You can increase your daily intake of biotin by eating biotin-rich foods or taking a biotin supplement. The daily requirement of biotin for adults is 30 micrograms, but those trying to grow hair typically start with 500 to 700 micrograms per day. This amount can be increased to 1,000 micrograms if recommended by your doctor.
Others suggest using biotin in a hair mask. Create a mask by crushing two or three biotin tablets into a powder and mixing them with olive or coconut oil. Massage the mask into the scalp and leave it in overnight. The process can be repeated twice a week.
Some individuals who consistently add more biotin to their diets see an increase in hair growth within three to six months. Other vitamins — including Vitamin E, which can also be applied directly to the scalp and left overnight — have been shown to improve the overall health and quality of hair.
#2: Coconut Oil
Coconut oil has long been hailed as a great natural moisturizer and conditioner because of its many proteins. A staple ingredient in the haircare industry, coconut oil is added to many shampoos, conditioners and hair masks because of its ability to naturally promote hair growth and repair damaged hair.
As a moisturizer, coconut oil helps keep the hair shaft strong, which reduces hair breakage and helps to “waterproof” hair, protecting it from environmental damage.
To try it: To make a mask, warm up virgin coconut oil, massage it all over your scalp and leave it in overnight. This process can be repeated twice a week or more. The coconut oil’s natural proteins and potassium have been shown to promote scalp health, repair damaged hair, reduce hair breakage and even decrease dandruff.
#3: Caffeine
Have you ever heard of using coffee for hair growth? Some believe that caffeine — a natural compound found in some plants — may be able to simulate the growth of hair follicles in some people.
To try it: Caffeine can be absorbed into your bloodstream by drinking it or directly through topical application. By applying caffeine to the hair follicle directly, you can get an ultra-high dose without jittery side effects.
To apply a coffee hair mask, brew your coffee and wait for it to cool. Apply the cold coffee to freshly washed hair. Massage it into the scalp then cover your hair with a shower cap. Let it sit for 30 minutes before washing and let your hair naturally dry. This process can be repeated once a week for best results.
The Verdict
The jury is still out on many at-home hair growth remedies, and the clinical effectiveness of these at-home treatments is still being determined. You should always check with your doctor before adding any supplements to your diet, but most natural topical remedies are harmless.
If you’re curious about the effects of the topical treatments, give them a try! And improving your overall nutrition is never a bad idea. Eating foods packed with protein and nutrients is good for your hair and your body. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids will help lower inflammation and improve your scalp’s health.
You might just see incredible results that will lead you to evangelize the benefits of at-home hair growth remedies. At the very least, your hair will likely feel and look healthier and stronger.
To learn more about other innovative, non-surgical treatments for hair restoration, contact our experienced team at Dallas NeoGraft today!
