Hair vitamins & supplements for skin, hair and nails

For some nutrients there are authorised claims relating to skin, hair and nails: biotin contributes to the maintenance of normal hair and normal skin. Zinc contributes to the maintenance of normal hair, nails and skin. Selenium contributes to the maintenance of normal hair and nails. Vitamin C contributes to normal collagen formation for the normal function of the skin.

For collagen, hyaluronic acid, keratin or millet extract, on the other hand, there are no authorised health claims. Advertising for such ingredients therefore usually relies on the vitamins and minerals they contain. That doesn't mean the products are ineffective – but a benefit has not been proven in the way the EU requires for an effect claim.

Hair loss or brittle nails can have many causes, from hormones and iron deficiency to thyroid disorders. With sudden or heavy hair loss, a medical check makes more sense than reaching for hair vitamins. A genuine biotin deficiency is rare with a normal diet; the DGE gives an estimated value of 40 µg per day for adults.

Many hair supplements contain biotin in amounts many times the estimated value, often 5,000 or 10,000 µg. Such amounts can distort certain laboratory tests, such as thyroid hormones or cardiac markers. So tell the practice before every blood test if you are taking biotin and, after consulting your doctor, stop taking it a few days beforehand if necessary.

Selenium has a comparatively narrow margin between requirement and excessive intake. So don't combine several products containing selenium.

Food supplements are no substitute for a balanced, varied diet or a healthy lifestyle. If you have a pre-existing condition, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or take medication regularly, ask a doctor or pharmacist for advice before taking them. Do not exceed the recommended daily intake stated on the pack. The information on this page is for general guidance only and is no substitute for individual advice.