Study: Vegan Nutraceutical Improves Hair Health in Plant-Based Dieters
A recent clinical study suggested that a novel vegan nutraceutical supported hair health in women following plant-based diets.
Seeking to address the nutrient deficiencies that can affect hair growth and quality in this population, researchers for the single-blind prospective study conducted over six months across multliple sites. A total of 95 women completed the study.
The primary outcome and measure of success was increased terminal hair count at day 180, assessed via phototrichogram analysis. According to the results, there was a significant rise in terminal hair count at both day 90 and 180 (P < 0.01), as well as notable increases in total hair counts and terminal-to-vellus hair ratio (P < 0.01). There was also a significant decrease in hair shedding (P < 0.01).
Investigator ratings indicated significant improvements in hair growth and overall hair quality (P < 0.00001). Participants also reported enhanced hair strength, reduced brittleness (P < 0.01), and improved hair quality, appearance, texture, and volume.
"Hair growth and quality have documented impacts on the quality of life, especially in women," the authors wrote in the study. "Women are also about twice as likely than men to describe themselves as vegetarians. The data presented in this study show that the subjects reported improvements in hair quality, volume, growth, and coverage. It also decreased the impact of 'problems with their hair on feelings of self-consciousness, attractiveness, and socializing'. The nutraceutical was also reported to be well tolerated and easy to incorporate into a daily routine, making this an important tool given the current landscape of hair growth solutions for women following a plant-based diet."
The lack of a placebo arm was cited as a study limitation. The study manuscript was published in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology.
Source: Sivamani S, et al. Journal of Drugs in Dermatology. 2024;23(8):661. Doi:10.36849/JDD.8421
Disclosures (from manuscript): Dr. Sivamani has served as a scientific advisor for Nutraceutical Wellness LLC.
Dr. Ablon has previously received research grants from Nutraceutical Wellness LLC.
Drs. Maloh and Nong have no disclosures to report.
Drs. Hazan and Raymond are employees of Nutraceutical Wellness LLC.
Funding for this study was provided by Nutraceutical Wellness LLC.