Benefits Of Niacin For Hair Niacin can be beneficial in a number of ways, and one of them happens to be improving the health of your hair. It’s an essential vitamin that many people are deficient in, so its impact on the opposite spectrum is often overlooked. So let’s talk about these benefits.
Benefits Of Niacin For Hair
Niacin, or vitamin B3, is a critical water-soluble vitamin for both your internal and external health. In fact, niacin is required for every component of your entire body! While your general health relies on a balanced intake of nutrients, including all complex B vitamins, niacin is often used for beauty purposes — especially in relation to the skin and hair.
Before diving into the benefits associated with B3, it’s important to discuss the two forms of this essential nutrient: niacinamide and nicotinic acid. Both of these chemical forms have a unique effect on the human body. That is why you should be familiar with the products you use, based on the ingredients they contain.
In fact, when taken orally in supplement form at high doses, niacin can cause what’s known as niacin flush — a side effect that causes the blood vessels close to the skin to dilate, resulting in a burning or tingling sensation. In comparison, niacinamide does not cause this phenomenon.
Niacinamide is a gentler form of niacin, offering benefits for not only the scalp and hair, but also for your skin and eyes! When used in a topical product, niacinamide helps to combat the signs of aging.
In addition, one of the best things about B3 is that it works synergistically with other beneficial nutrients, enhancing the overall beneficial effects. This is why you should invest in quality hair treatments, like Save Me From Scalp Care + Hair Repair, formulated with ingredients that nourish, condition and make the hair visibility healthier in time!
Niacin is an ingredient used in everything from shampoos to skin moisturizers, and can help improve the appearance + condition of your skin and hair.
While niacinamide is naturally found in various meats, eggs, milk, and green vegetables, the benefits of consuming this vitamin orally may not be as quick or effective as a topical scalp + hair treatment, and is highly effective when aiming to administer niacin to encourage optimal hair + scalp health.
Whether you’re trying to improve the moisture balance of your hair or would simply like to improve the visible health of your scalp, here’s what B3-containing products can do for your hair.
1. May Improves a Healthier Condition of Hair Follicles
Niacin has the ability to improve the condition of your scalp and hair, especially when using topical products, offering your hair ongoing and external support.
This is important because hair follicles tend to be extra sensitive and prone to damage through oxidative stressors such as product buildup and pollution. Since the skin on your scalp is much like the skin everywhere else on your body, requiring select nutrients — in this case, niacin. If the scalp (and hair) does not get the nutrients they require for optimal health, hair loss can occur. After all, your scalp is living viable tissue, so a lack of oxygen and nutrients impacts the hair cells and growth.
2. Promotes the Look + Feel of Thicker Hair
Did you know that a reduction in blood flow can result in the thinning of hair? As we begin to age, the hair strand’s diameter begins to thin and niacin is a key nutrient that helps to promote the look and feel of thicker hair! Niacin aids in the stimulation of new hair growth, and in one key study, published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, the researchers showed that niacin increased hair fullness.
We took a number of approaches with our Save Me From Age Acceleration reboot to restore the hair back to its natural youthfulness. To improve hair dynamics and movement, we utilized ingredients to realign damaged areas of the hair shaft and improved lubricity and porosity. We used strengthening ingredients to reduce hair breakage and splits ends, added nourishing ingredients that improve hair flexibility, and blended with cuticle saving actives that restore shine, smoothness, softness, and manageability.
3. Increases the Moisture Balance of your Scalp
If the scalp is dry, damaged and inflamed chances are your hair will suffer as a result! Niacin can help prevent dry hair and the development of dandruff by moisturizing the scalp and locking in the hair with hydration. In clinical studies, niacin has been shown to target DNA repair, which could include any potential DNA damage in relation to the scalp and hair from oxidative stressors.
When using Save Me From Thermal Obsession, formulated with hyaluronic acid, marine extracts, and over a dozen silky butters + oils, moisture is locked into the scalp + hair strands, based on niacin’s ability to increase skin proteins and ceramides in the scalp’s lipid barrier, preventing + protecting against dryness.
4. Improves The Efficiency of Protein Synthesis
Niacinamide increases protein synthesis, also known as keratin synthesis, as reported in this key study. In fact, the hair shaft is made up of approximately 98 percent protein. This means that a lack of B3 may contribute to the strengthening of your hair and, in turn, impacts overall hair health and growth.
Topical niacinamide offers a stabilizing effect to the scalp microbiome, while promoting an increase in protein – a nutrient essential in regard to stronger, more flexible + elastic hair. Although facial skin can quickly become damaged by the sun, your scalp is also highly susceptible to damage when exposed to UV rays for an extended period of time. Our solution is Save Me From Sun + Sweat, a sun buffering, chlorine blocking, and hard water fighting reboot that soothes the scalp while protecting and repairing hair damage. In 3 uses, our clinical studies show an improvement in hair’s strength by up to 83.6%, an increase in hair hydration by 125%, an increase in shine up to 40.3%, while improving hair flexibility up to 140.6%, and reducing split ends up to 89%!
5. Reduces Scalp Inflammation
There are a number of skin disorders caused by inflammation that can negatively impact your scalp, and hair the growth of your hair. In some cases, autoimmune conditions can cause excessively dry skin and symptoms such as dandruff and itching.
Researchers found while treating acne that vitamin B3 could help manage inflammatory lesions without any negative side effects. Since this vitamin is safe and effective, topical scalp + hair products containing vitamin B3 may offer a long-term solution to help ease an inflamed + irritated scalp.
If you often use hot styling tools or color your hair, ensure you apply niacin daily in order to combat inflammation + to rebuild the strength of your hair. Our Save Me From Chemical Conflict scalp treatment contains South African Rooibos in addition to niacin that can offer even greater anti-inflammatory effects to the scalp than vitamin B3 alone.
6. Protects Against Environmental Damage
Niacinamide is also often studied as the niacin derivative with it’s ability to support cell turnover and may help reduce one’s risk of skin cancer, as reported in this 2017 study.
Since research suggests that vitamin B3 can initiate DNA repair while increasing the rate of cellular reproduction, treatments rich in this vitamin can possibly support the healing of skin damaged by pollution damage and the sun’s UV rays.
If you live or work in an urban environment, combat oxidative stress from pollution that can lead to hair loss by protecting the hair surface from pollutants with Save Me From Pollution Assault.
7. Helps Regulate Scalp + Hair Oil Production
Buildup on the scalp is a concern that not only impacts the appearance and texture of hair, but also its growth. These substances include excess sebum, particulate matter from pollution, dead skin cells, and residue from hair styling products. This can cause inflammation, causing damage to the scalp and can impact the growth of hair.
Studies have shown that topical niacinamide may impact sebum production and excretion rates. This study, published in the Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy, found that when participants were treated with topical 2% niacinamide, overall sebum extraction rates were significantly lower after two and four weeks.
Since too much oil can cause plugged sebaceous glands, which may become itchy and uncomfortable, it’s important to target your scalp if it’s excessively oily. In this case, Save Me From Product Overload uses Brazilian black clay + European bio active silt to enhance the purifying process by removing excess oil, dead skin cells, and impurities on the scalp through capillary action.
8. Helps You Achieve A More Even Complexion
Much like the skin on the face, extended sun exposure can cause damage and, in this case, hyperpigmentation to not only the skin but also the scalp! This causes melanocytes (a specific type of cell) to produce melanosomes, which can then impact the pigment of your hair. Although niacin does not stop production, it has been shown to inhibit the transfer of these pigment granules.
9. Supports An Anti-Aging Regimen
One of the main benefits associated with niacin is its ability to reduce fine lines and wrinkles. Research shows that niacin can help keep aging skin firmer through its circulation-boosting properties that not only boost hair thickness, but hair strength! It is also important to note that niacin can help combat the thinning of the dermis and epidermis, which occurs as we age — due to niacin’s ability to repair and maintain healthy skin.
Niacin and hair growth go hand in hand because vitamin B boosts energy and improves blood flow to the scalp. Much like niacin’s role in improving the health of hair follicles, a consistent supply of oxygen must be available to support metabolic, cellular functions. Since niacin has the ability to increase the available supply of oxygen, skin cells can significantly benefit.
Benefits of Niacin for Hair
Niacin as a supplement can have multiple benefits for both the hair and scalp when properly dosed.
- Promotes blood circulation: Niacin is responsible for converting food into energy. “It’s necessary for healthy blood circulation which is crucial for optimal hair growth as it increases the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the hair follicle,” Reslan explains. Niacin’s nutritional elements are also critical for maintaining cellular metabolism and cellular homeostasis.
- Supports scalp health: Reslan also shares that when used as a supplement, niacin can support a healthy scalp by balancing moisture and creating a protective layer that will enable healthy hair growth.
- Promotes hair growth: Niacin deficiency can impair the hair growth process, Reslan explains. This results in poor hair quality, but on the contrary, niacin can help promote hair growth and enable the process.
- Reduces scalp inflammation: “Nicotinamide has anti-inflammatory and hydrating benefits,” Camp says. These properties help to calm and soothe the skin and scalp, reducing irritation and inflammation.
- Promotes thicker hair: “By improving the health of follicular cells, nicotinamide may help keep hair lustrous by maintaining its sheen, body, and strength,” Camp says.
10 Proven Benefits of Vitamin B3 (Niacin)
Taking care of your health and appearance starts with the foods you consume and the products you use on a regular basis. This is particularly important in regard to your hair, especially if you’re prone to hair-specific issues.
While there’s a wide range of nutrients required in order to maintain optimal hair health, niacin is certainly a key vitamin. When applied topically, it can significantly improve the look and feel of your hair.
Required for every component of your body, niacin — more commonly known as Vitamin B3 — supports healthier, more luscious hair. Since it can also improve your general health if your intake of this key vitamin is low, it’s critical that you’re aware of its role in terms of your well-being.
Whether you’re looking to achieve thicker looking hair or simply maintain stronger, healthier looking hair, here’s how niacin can assist you.
What Exactly Is Niacin and How Is It Used in Products?
Niacin, or vitamin B3, is a critical water-soluble vitamin for both your internal and external health. In fact, niacin is required throughout your entire body. While your general health relies on a balanced intake of nutrients, including all complex B vitamins, niacin is often used for beauty purposes — especially in relation to the skin and hair.
Before diving into the benefits associated with B3, it’s important to discuss the two forms of this essential nutrient: niacinamide and nicotinic acid. Both of these chemical forms have a unique effect on the human body. That is why you should be familiar with the products you use, based on the ingredients they contain.
In fact, when taken orally in supplement form at high doses, niacin can cause what’s known as niacin flush — a side effect that causes the blood vessels close to the skin to dilate, resulting in a burning or tingling sensation. In comparison, niacinamide does not cause this phenomenon.
In regard to hair health, niacinamide is most commonly used. Niacinamide is a gentler form, offering key benefits for not only your hair but also your skin and eyes. As a topical product, niacinamide is often used to combat signs of aging and is also the most studied form.
In addition, one of the best things about B3 is that it works synergistically with other beneficial nutrients, such as biotin, enhancing the overall positive effects. That is why you should invest in quality hair products, as they offer ingredients that actively make your hair visibility healthier.
Using Vitamin B3 in Beauty and, More Specifically, Hair Products
Used in everything from shampoos to hair tonics and bath products to skin moisturizers, niacin can help improve the appearance of your skin and hair. Best of all, it’s easy to implement into your regular beauty routine.
While niacinamide is naturally found in various meats, eggs, milk, and green vegetables, the benefits of consuming this vitamin orally may not be as quick or effective as topical treatments. This is especially true when you specifically aim to improve the look and feel of your hair.
Topical products are highly effective when aiming to administer niacin. You can now source niacin for your hair by purchasing quality shampoos and conditioners, as well as other products that encourage optimal hair health while supporting each individual’s unique style.
7 Benefits Associated with Niacin and Hair Health
Whether you’re trying to improve the moisture balance of your hair or would simply like to improve the visible health of your scalp, here’s what B3-containing products can do for your hair.
1. May Improve A Healthier Appearance Of Your Hair Follicles
Niacin has the ability to improve the appearance of your scalp and hair, especially when using topical products. For example, this shampoo contains niacinamide, offering your hair ongoing, external support.
This is important because hair follicles tend to be extra sensitive. If your hair and scalp do not get the nutrients they require, hair loss can occur. After all, your hair has roots within your scalp — a lack of oxygen and nutrients impacts all cells, including hair cells.
2. Promotes Visibly Thicker Hair
Based on the fact that a reduction in blood flow can result in the thinning of hair, it makes sense that niacin would be able to promote the look and feel of thicker hair. As stated in this study, the skin on your scalp is much like the skin everywhere else on your body, requiring select nutrients — in this case, niacin.
Aiding in the stimulation of new hair growth, your hair may become noticeably thicker when using niacin-rich products on a regular basis, like this fortified conditioner. In one key study, published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, the researchers showed that niacin increased hair fullness.
3. Increases The Moisture Balance Of Your Skin
If your scalp is dry and damaged, chances are your hair will suffer as well. Locking in moisture, niacin can help prevent dry hair and the development of dandruff. More specifically, niacin has been shown in clinical studies to target DNA repair, which could include any potential DNA damage in relation to your scalp and hair.
When using this hair serum, for instance, you can lock moisture in based on niacin’s ability to increase skin proteins in your scalp’s lipid barrier, protecting against dryness. More specifically, there is increased production of ceramides, which are the lipids in your skin that retain water.
4. Improves The Efficiency Of Keratin Synthesis
Niacinamide increases protein synthesis, also known as keratin, as reported in this key study. Providing a stimulating effect, topical niacinamide also offers a stabilizing effect while promoting an increase in protein — which is essential in regard to stronger, more elastic hair.
In fact, hair shafts are made up of approximately 98 percent protein. This means that a lack of B3 may contribute to the weakening of your hair and, in turn, impacts overall hair health and growth. More specifically, you may notice that your hair is rather limp and lifeless.
5. Reduces Inflammation
There are a number of skin disorders that can negatively impact your scalp, most of which are caused by inflammation. While treating acne, for instance, researchers found that B3 could help manage inflammatory lesions without any negative side effects.
In some cases, autoimmune conditions can cause excessively dry skin and symptoms such as dandruff and itching. Since this vitamin is safe and effective, products containing B3 may offer you a long-term solution to an inflamed scalp. The combination of biotin and B3 can offer even greater anti-inflammatory effects. Certainly, if there is any persistent inflammation or other medical concerns with your scalp, you should always seek a consultation with a medical doctor.
6. Protects Against Environmental Damage
Although facial skin can quickly become damaged by the sun, your scalp is also highly susceptible to damage when exposed to UV rays for an extended period of time. Since laboratory data suggest that B3 can initiate DNA repair while increasing the rate of cellular reproduction, products rich in this vitamin could possibly support the healing of skin damaged by the sun’s UV rays.
This is because of B3’s ability to support cell turnover — which is why niacinamide is also often studied as the niacin derivative that may help reduce one’s risk of skin cancer, as reported in this 2017 study.
If you often use hot styling tools or color your hair, ensure you apply niacin daily in order to rebuild your hair. In addition to other key ingredients, niacin hair products will allow you to fix the look of brittle, dry hair, as well as possibly other scalp issues.
7. Helps Regulate Oil Production
Studies have shown that topical niacinamide may impact sebum production and excretion rates. This study, published in the Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy, found that when participants were treated with topical 2% niacinamide, overall sebum extraction rates were significantly lower after two and four weeks.
Since too much oil can cause plugged sebaceous glands, which may become itchy and uncomfortable, it’s important to target your scalp if it’s excessively oily. In this case, the products you use are important, especially your shampoo and conditioner, as well as any other products used on a regular or even daily basis — such as a quality pomade.
3 Additional Beauty Benefits Associated with B3
Outside of positive hair health, B3 also yields many benefits associated with the skin. In fact, a B3 deficiency is typically characterized by problematic skin. Studies have shown that the topical application of niacinamide can help reverse the signs of declining levels of key B3 enzymes.
Whether you would like to minimize the appearance of your pores or simply protect your skin against oxidative stress, here’s what B3 can offer your beauty regimen, particularly in relation to your skin.
8. Helps You Achieve A More Even-Looking Skin Tone
Much like your scalp, extended sun exposure can cause damage and, in this case, hyperpigmentation. This causes melanocytes (a specific type of cell) to produce melanosomes, which can then impact the pigment of your skin. Although niacin does not stop production, it has been shown to inhibit the transfer of these pigment granules.
One study found that when applying a skin cream that contained 5% niacinamide for eight weeks, age spots around the participants’ eyes and cheeks diminished and a more even skin tone was achieved. The researchers concluded that niacinamide offers a wide range of extraordinary cutaneous benefits.
9. May Help Improve Worsening Acne
As the most common skin condition in the United States, affecting as many as 50 million Americans on an annual basis, acne can cause self-esteem issues. In addition to its anti-inflammatory properties, shown in laboratory research, B3 has a positive impact on acne because of the way in which it regulates lipid profiles.
After all, acne patients tend to showcase abnormal lipid profiles. Upon studying patients for 12 weeks, this study found that high doses of B3 can help combat symptoms of acne. In addition, those who suffer from skin conditions that cause red skin and bumps may also benefit from a topical B3-based product.
10. Supports An Anti-Aging Regimen
One of the main benefits associated with niacin is its ability to reduce fine lines and wrinkles. A shown across a wide range of studies, including this study published in Dermatologic Surgery, niacin can support anti-aging regimens. In previous studies, topical niacinamide was well-tolerated by the skin, offering a range of improvements in the skin’s appearance.
To study this relationship further, researchers applied 5% niacinamide to the faces of 50 participants. The niacinamide significantly reduced the look of fine lines and wrinkles. It also reduced the appearance of red blotches, hyperpigmented spots, and the yellowing of the skin. In addition, the skin’s elasticity improved.
It is also important to note that niacin can help combat the thinning of the dermis and epidermis, which occurs as you age — due to niacin’s ability to repair and maintain healthy skin. Much like niacin’s role in improving the health of hair follicles, a consistent supply of oxygen must be available to support metabolic, cellular functions. Since niacin has the ability to increase the available supply of oxygen, skin cells can significantly benefit.
Outside of the above benefits, niacin also has a positive impact on various internal organs and systems, including its ability to impact cholesterol levels while supporting heart and brain health. Researchers continue to study the impact in which this vitamin has on hair, skin, and general health. After all, niacin is directly involved in cellular metabolism, energy production, and overall brain function.
Niacin For Hair Growth: Does it Help With Hair Loss?
In this article, you are going to learn how you can start using niacin for hair growth, and the importance of a six-month human trial study which showed the effectiveness of niacin use as a treatment for alopecia.
You will also learn of the four positive effects which niacin has been scientifically proven to produce and how these effects may have an impact on hair growth.
What is Niacin?
Niacin, also commonly referred to as vitamin B3 and nicotinic acid, is an organic compound and an essential human nutrient. Interestingly, niacin is historically referred to as Vitamin PP.
This is because the lack of niacin leads to a fatal disease known as pellagra, and niacin is the only known treatment for the condition. Thus, Vitamin Pellagra-Preventative.
In the medical community, niacin is known for more than just its pellagra-fighting abilities. Recent research has begun to uncover the multitude of benefits associated with niacin supplementation, including its use as a treatment for hair loss.
How Niacin Works to Promote Hair Growth
Here is a closer look at the research-backed ways in which niacin may promote hair growth.
1. Niacin Improves Blood Circulation to the Scalp
An important aspect of hair loss treatment research is not only the testing of possible medications and natural remedies for its treatment, but also research on possible causes related to hair loss. One such research study was performed by Klemp, Peters, and Hansted at the University of Copenhagen .
With a total of 28 volunteers — 14 of which suffered from early male-pattern baldness and 14 of which were similarly aged and had normal hair growth and fullness — researchers measured subcutaneous blood flow to determine if such was a factor in alopecia.
The results of this study showed a significant pattern. On average, subcutaneous blood flow was 2.6 times lower in men with early MPB than with their healthy, similar-aged counterparts.
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As the study was only concerned with current blood flow levels, there are still a few unanswered questions. Most significantly, researchers were unable to determine whether the lowered blood flow was the cause of male-pattern baldness, or whether it was a side effect.
However we now know that reduced blood flow likely precedes AGA. This is because botulinum toxin injected into the scalp improves AGA. The most likely mechanism is by reducing scalp tension, and consequently, improving blood flow.
No matter the answer, however, blood circulation is vital to the overall health of the scalp and hair follicles. After all, blood delivers oxygen and other necessary nutrients to the hair follicles, and this is needed for the growth of hair to continue uninterrupted.
So, what can be done to increase blood flow to the scalp? One treatment possibility is niacin.
A common side effect of niacin supplementation is flushing . This side effect occurs as a direct result of niacin’s ability to dilate dermal blood vessels and increase the flow of blood throughout the body.
Further, niacin has been shown to reduce the viscosity, or thickness, of blood . This only further improves niacin’s abilities to increase circulation, including to the scalp and hair follicles.
2. Niacin Reduces Scalp Inflammation
DHT is a known inflammatory, and a 2006 study proved that DHT actually led to the inhibition of wound healing .
For individuals with alopecia, DHT can lead to unnecessary inflammation and impede the process of hair growth.
The majority of studies which discuss niacin’s anti-inflammatory abilities are focused on its role in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases. These studies, however, are still useful here as they show niacin’s ability to reduce certain whole-body inflammation markers.
One such study was performed by Thoenes et al, and it showed promising results for those looking to reduce the levels of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) within the body . In fact, the volunteers treated with niacin in this 52-week study saw a 20% decrease in this inflammatory marker.
In another study, this time done by Karacaglar et al, the difference in levels of hs-CRP between the group who received niacin treatment and the placebo group were significant .
As stated, these studies were focused on niacin’s role in cardiovascular disease prevention. Remember, however, that hs-CRP is a marker for inflammation anywhere in this body. This means that high levels of hs-CRP can certainly indicate an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, but they could also indicate uncontrolled inflammation in other areas of the body, such as the scalp.
The fact that niacin reduces the levels of hs-CRP within the body is an important takeaway for hair loss sufferers. This means that niacin has anti-inflammatory properties which can also benefit those looking to reduce the inflammation and irritation present within the scalps of those sensitive to DHT.
3. Niacin Rebuilds Keratin
Perhaps one of niacin’s most direct hair growth benefits is its keratin-inducing effects.
Keratin is a fibrous structural protein, and it is responsible for protecting epithelial cells (the tightly packed cells found on the surface of the skin) from damage. Keratin is also present in the hair and nails and is significant part of their make up.
Niacin or, more specifically, niacinamide has been shown to increase the synthesis of keratin.
This particular study also found that niacinamide reduces water loss and improves moisturization in the horny layers of the skin.
While not entirely similar to niacin, niacinamide is a derivative of niacin with the addition of an amino group.
During the anagen phase, a process called keratinization occurs. This process involves the movement of keratin proteins from under the skin to the surface. As hair is composed almost entirely of keratin, so it makes sense that lack of keratin movement can lead to weaker, thinner strands of hair.
This niacin-derivative, however, induces the production of keratin to ensure the process of keratinization may occur within the hair follicles. This is vital for the growth of strong, long hair.
4. Niacin Repairs Damaged DNA
Within the body, niacin is converted to a coenzyme involved in various metabolic processes known as NAD. In simplest terms, the role of NAD in its various forms is to convert compounds, such as glucose and fatty acids, to energy.
This is a biological process known, in the larger sense, as oxidative phosphorylation, and it has been linked to the repair of damaged DNA .
There are various reasons why DNA gets damaged. From natural aging to free radicals, damaged DNA can play a role in the progression of hair loss. One example of this was seen in a recent study by Matsumura et al .
Researchers found that the aging of hair follicle stem cells responsible for the induction of hair growth inadvertently led to the reduction of COL17A1, an important protein in the adhesion of the epidermal skin cells.
What this means is, over time, adhesion between the intracellular and extracellular components of the epidermis weaken. This leads to the shedding of keratinocytes, the key protein involved in the production of keratin.
As this occurs, the hair follicle begins to shrink and leads to hair loss. As an aid in the process of oxidative phosphorylation, however, niacin can fight back against DNA damage and improve the overall quality of your skin and hair.
Niacin and Hair Growth: A Trial Study in Human Subjects
In 2005, Draelos et al explored the use of niacin derivatives as a possible treatment for female-pattern alopecia .
Using 60 female participants, researchers split the group into 40 receiving niacin derivative treatment and 20 receiving a placebo treatment.
Those in the active group received a topical application of vehicle containing 0.5% octyl nicotinate and 5.0% myristylnicotinate for six months, while those in the control group received a non-active vehicle for the same length of time.
The participants were photographed at the beginning of the study, as well as at the three-month and six-month marks to determine an increase in hair fullness, if any.
Unfortunately, research is lacking when it comes to the treatment of female alopecia. While this study did show promise for the use of niacin derivatives in the treatment of female hair loss, the exact mechanism was unknown.
Researchers, however, did speculate as to two possible causes for the success.
The first possible cause is the increase in density of hair follicles. The second is the increase in the quality of already present hair shafts.
As niacin has been shown to improve blood circulation, decrease inflammation, and rebuild keratin, the two suggested causes above are certainly plausible, though further research is required for a definitive answer.
How to Add Niacin to Your Regular Hair Care Routine
Here are just a few ways you may be able to gain benefits from this vital nutrient.
Add Niacin to Your Diet
Vitamin B3 is a naturally-occurring vitamin, found in high quantities in certain foods. Such foods include:
- Avocado
- Asparagus
- Sunflower Seeds
- Green Peas
- Liver
- Fish
- Mushrooms
- Peanuts
With the variety above, there are numerous ways you can go about adding niacin to your diet within the use of a supplement.
Some easy ways include cooking with avocado oil, adding sunflower seeds, green peas, and mushrooms to your salads, and adding more liver and fish (which contains fish oils) into your meal rotation.
Of course, supplementation is possible. However, keep in mind that an over-supply of niacin within the body can cause a number of side effects. This makes it a necessity to seek out professional medical help prior to taking a vitamin B3 supplement.
Apply a Niacin-rich Hair Mask
Containing 13 to 18 percent of your daily recommended Niacin value, avocado is an excellent source to add to your hair care arsenal.
Avocado and Honey Hair Mask
Ingredients:
- Ripe avocado (½)
- Avocado oil (2 tablespoons)
- Honey (1 tablespoon)
Method:
In a glass bowl, warm the avocado oil for 15 to 20 seconds.
Remove the bowl from the microwave, adding the honey to the oil and mixing thoroughly.
If not combining, heat the honey and oil combination for an additional 10 seconds.
Cut the ripened avocado in half, and place in the bowl with the honey and oil. Mash until thoroughly blended.
Apply to dry hair and scalp, using a comb to thoroughly spread the moisturizing mixture throughout your hair. Place a shower cap over your scalp, and leave it in place for 30 to 60 minutes.
Now, rinse the mask from your head and shampoo and condition as usual.
Hair benefits:
Aside from the hydrating and soothing effects from the avocado and avocado oil, the honey adds an antimicrobial component which will aid in cleansing your scalp and removing any harmful buildup.
Performing this mask treatment on a weekly benefit will ensure your hair is tangle-free and your scalp is healthy and free from inflammation and irritation.
Are There Side Effects Associated with Niacin Supplementation?
Niacin found naturally in foods does not cause any negative health effects . It is possible, however, to experience side effects as a result of over supplementing with vitamin B3.
Common side effects include flushing, stomach upset, liver dysfunction, glucose intolerance, and blurred vision .
The supplement may be prescribed to individuals with high cholesterol as a way to reduce risk of heart disease. Dosing in this instance is often much higher than that of regular supplementation, so be sure to speak with your doctor extensively about side effects.
Consumption of alcohol in addition to a niacin supplement can exacerbate the side effect known as flushing, so avoidance of alcohol is advised.
Women who are pregnant or nursing should speak with their obstetrician prior to supplementation, though are advised to reach their daily recommended niacin values through foods as opposed to the use of a supplement.
Can Too Much Niacin Cause Hair Loss?
As mentioned above, too much niacin can have ill effects on the body. These can range from mild (stomach upset, flushing) to severe (liver dysfunction, glucose intolerance).
But did you know that niacin overdose may lead to hair loss?
Niacin overdose is the term used for those who are taking too much niacin for their bodily needs. It is next to impossible to do this with diet alone, but it is entirely possible to do if you take supplements containing niacin.
The good news is that any hair loss that is a result of niacin overdose can be reversed. This is because the cause is likely telogen effluvium.
So, how can you avoid overdoing it on niacin?
It is best if you speak with your doctor before you begin taking a niacin supplement. They can advise you on recommended daily doses, and they can also inform you if any of your current medications will interact with the vitamin.
If you experience any symptoms of niacin overdose, it is important that you stop taking niacin immediately. The long-term effects, especially liver dysfunction, can be devastating to your overall health.
Conclusion
While further research is required, preliminary studies done on humans have shown great promise for the use of this vital nutrient in hair loss reversal.
If you are looking for a quick hair loss treatment, however, niacin is not it.
Its various abilities can certainly be beneficial, and there are a wide array of therapeutic uses for niacin, but the majority of its benefits associated with hair growth are indirect.
If you would like to add niacin to your usual routine, you should prioritize adding niacin-rich foods to your diet. You can also apply it as a hair mask, or even add different ingredients, such as avocado and sunflower seeds, to your shampoo.