11 Best Vitamin Supplements For Hair, Skin, And Nails
Healthy bouncy hair, glorious skin, and strong, shiny nails can make a statement for any woman. But environmental aggressors and oxidative stress can lead to thinning hair, dull skin, and brittle nails. Along with a proper diet and a healthy lifestyle, your body also needs additional supplements to rejuvenate and revive your look.
Though there are several supplement brands on the market, a few stand out in terms of quality and effectiveness. We have listed them here. Take a look at the 11 top supplements meant for boosting the health of your skin, hair, and health.
Table Of Contents
11 Best Supplements For Hair, Skin, And Nails
Vitamin B7 Or Biotin Supplements
Biotin is a water-soluble vitamin. It is also known as vitamin H or vitamin B7. It is an extremely important nutrientthat supports the healthy growth of hair, skin, and nails. Biotin helps in protein synthesis, especially keratin, which is a basic protein required for hair and nail growth (1). Several studies show that deficiency of biotin may lead to hair loss, brittle nails, and skin rashes(2), (3),(4).
A study in the Journal of Dermatology Research and Practice found that women who were on protein supplements in the form of biotin showed faster hair growth and a reduced rate of hair shedding (5). A study in the Journal of Cutis showed that supplementation of 2.5 mg of biotin for six weeks improved the symptoms of brittle nails (6).
1. Best Budget: Sports Research Biotin Essential Vitamin Supplement
The Sports Research Biotin Essential Vitamin Supplement is made with cold-pressed organic coconut oil that is essential for better hair, skin, and nails. Biotin with infused coconut oil stimulates hair growth by promoting blood circulation to the hair shaft.
Each soft gel contains 10 mg of biotin.
How To Use: Take one soft gel with food or as directed by your health care professional.
Pros
- Non-GMO
- 100% vegan
- Gluten-free
- Easy to take
Cons
- Contains nut allergen
- May cause cystic acne
2. Best For Hair:Eu Natural Biotin Pure Supplement
The Eu Natural Biotin Pure Supplement is packed with essential vitamins and biotin for healthier hair growth, stronger nails, and glowing skin. Each capsule is formulated with 99.8% pure biotin. The plant-powered multi-blend formula is clinically researched and contaminant-free. It is made with 100% vegan protein that is easy to swallow and completely free from artificial ingredients.
Each soft gel contains 5 mg of biotin.
How To Use: Take one soft gel with food.
Pros
- No added fillers
- No binders
- Clinically researched
- FDA-registered
- Third-party tested
- cGMP Certified
- 100% vegan
- Gluten-free
Cons
None
3. Nature’s Bounty Biotin Supplement
The Nature’s Bounty Biotin Supplement contains easily bio available biotin enclosed in a soft gel that helps support healthy hair, skin, and nails. In addition, it also helps boost energy and fat metabolism. It is laboratory-tested. It contains nogluten or wheat. It comes with a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
Each soft gel contains 10 mg of biotin.
How To Use: Take one soft gel daily with food.
Pros
- Nogluten
- Now heat
- No artificial colors
- No fragrances
- No added sugars
- Sodium-free
- 100% vegan
- Promotes energy
Cons
- Unpleasant smell
4. Best Drugstore: Nature’s Bounty Extra Strength Hair, Skin, & Nails Softgels
The Nature’s Bounty Extra Strength Hair, Skin, &Nails Soft gel contains pure, natural biotin along with argan oil, vitamins C and E, hyaluronic acid, and 11 other essential ingredients. This innovative formula not only boosts hair and nail health but also nourishes and smoothens skin. The antioxidant vitamins in the supplement stimulate collagen formation for vibrant skin.
Each soft gel contains 5 mg of biotin.
How To Use: Take three soft gels daily along with meals.
Pros
- Provides immune support
- 100% vegan
- No artificial ingredients
- FDA-approved
Cons
- Contains soy and nut allergens
5. Solimo Biotin Supplement
The Solimo Biotin Supplement supports the health of skin, hair, and nails. It is 100% natural and vegan and has no added artificial colors or flavors. Daily consumption of the supplement also supports normal brain function and cognition. It does not contain gluten or lactose and can be given to gluten or lactose intolerant individuals.
Each soft gel contains 5 mg of biotin.
How To Use: Take one soft gel daily with meals.
Pros
- Gluten-free
- Lactose-free
- No added colors
- No preservatives
- Supports metabolic health
- Boosts brain function
Cons
- May dry hair out
6. Salameh Ultimate Hair Skin & Nails Supplement
The Salameh Ultimate Hair Skin&Nails Supplement is an innovative strengthening formula that supports your natural beauty from within. It supplies biotin along with other essential vitamins and minerals. Its coenzyme Q10 helps treat hair loss and strengthens the nail buds. It is infused with aloe vera and probiotics that help rejuvenate skin.
Each soft gel contains 2 mg of biotin.
How To Use: Take two capsules daily with meals.
Pros
- Infused with hydrolyzed keratin
- Supports gut health
Cons
None
7. Nature Made Hair, Skin, Nails Supplement
The Nature Made Hair, Skin, Nails Supplement is formulated with five key vital ingredients that include vitamin C, biotin, zinc, copper, and beta carotene. These offer optimum nourishment to your hair, skin, and nails. Biotin is among the key ingredients that boost hair growth. Vitamin C helps synthesize collagen for skin and nails. Copper and zinc help rejuvenate the skin.
Each soft gel contains 2.5 mg of biotin.
How To Use: Take one soft gel daily along with meals.
Pros
- Gluten-free
- No artificial flavors
- FDA-approved
- Fast action
Cons
- Unpleasant smell
- May cause allergic reactions
L-Cysteine Supplements
L-cysteine is an amino acid and a building block of protein molecules. It can either be synthesized by the body or has to be taken through foods. It is a sulfur-containing amino acid and a precursor to keratin hair protein. It synthesizes and helps restructure the hair shaft and strengthens the hair roots (7).
A clinical trial by Hautarzt showed that cysteine, in combination with retinol, may reverse hair loss by lowering telogen (a stage when hair follicles are in their resting stage) rates and stimulating an agen (hair growth stage) rates (8).
8. NOW L-Cysteine Dietary Supplement
The NOW L-Cysteine Dietary Supplement contains important nutrients that help strengthen hair follicles, stimulate keratin synthesis, and stabilize the hair protein structure. It helps maintain the health of your hair, nails, and skin. Besides cysteine, it also contains pyridoxine and vitamin C that support proper skin growth and protects your skin from environmental aggressors. These non-GMO tablets aid the production of collagen.
Each soft gel contains 500 mg of cysteine.
How To Use: Take one soft gel 1-3 times a day.
Pros
- Nut-free
- Gluten-free
- Daily-free
- 100% vegan
- Non-GMO
- Soy-free
Cons
- Could be difficult to swallow
Vitamin A Supplements
Vitamin A or retinol is essential to improve skin appearance and boost overall skin health. Retinol helps blur the signs of premature aging and protects the skin from irritants (9).
The Journal of Toxicology and Research showed that retinoids stimulate collagen formation and reduce the appearance of wrinkles (10). Another study showed that supplementation with retinol helps protect the skin from environmental aggressors, delay the signs of aging, and prevent further skin damage (11).
9. Solgar Dry Vitamin A Supplement
The Solgar Dry Vitamin A Supplement helps boost skin health. These dry tablets are a perfect pick for those who have a challenge taking oil-based supplements. They also help support the immune system and promote healthy vision. The supplement is free from all harmful chemicals and devoid of artificial colors and flavors.
Each tablet contains 1.5 mg of vitamin A.
How To Use: Take one tablet daily with meals or as directed by your healthcare professional.
Pros
- Gluten-free
- Wheat-free
- Soy-free
- Dairy-free
- No added preservatives
- No added artificial fragrances or colors
- Boost immune system
Cons
- Not suitable for those with severe acne
Collagen Supplements
Collagen protein is one of the structural peptides important for hair, nails, and skin. It is an extracellular matrix that seals water and promotes soft, smooth, and supple skin. One study showed that oral supplementation of collagen supplements could help improve skin conditions (12).
10. MAV Nutrition Extra Strength Collagen Gummies
The MAV Nutrition Extra Strength Collagen Gummies offer a delicious way to keep your skin, nails, and hair healthy. If you struggle to swallow pills and do not prefer powder supplements, these gummies are a fun way to get your daily dose of collagen. Each gummy contains 50 mg of hydrolyzed collagen (types I and III) along with other vitamins and minerals for the overall maintenance of your nails, hair, and skin. It also keeps your joints healthy and provides a stable collagen supply to your body. Its fruit flavor gives you the motivation to chew it every day. It also helps slow down the signs of aging. Besides hydrolyzed collagen, each gummy is filled with vitamins C and E, and biotin to sustain collagen levels and support the skin matrix.
Two gummies contain 3 mg of collagen.
How To Use: Chew two gummies daily or as directed by the physician.
Pros
- Non-GMO
- Gelatin-free
- GMP certified
- Strengthen bones
- Improve gut health and digestion
Cons
- May cause cystic acne
11. Nature’s Bounty Hair, Skin & Nails Gummies
The Nature’s Bounty Collagen Gummies burst with a refreshing lemon flavor. You can go for these gummies if you do not want those typical collagen supplements but still want the benefits of collagen. They are formulated to strengthen and nourish your nails, skin, and hair.
Two gummies contain 2.5 mg of collagen.
How To Use: Chew two collagen gummies daily.
Pros
- Gluten-free
- No artificial flavors
- Naturally sourced color
- Laboratory-tested
- No soy
- No yeast
- No fish
Cons
None
These are the 11 best vitamins for healthy hair, nails, and skin. Daily consumption of vitamins may not lead to immediate results. One needs to be consistent and patient to see the difference. You must be curious to know if taking supplements would make any difference. Keep reading.
Can Taking Supplements Promote Health Of Hair, Skin, and Nails?
Factors like age, genetics, and environmental aggressors affect the health of hair, skin, and nails. Eating healthy, nutritious foods can help. However, if you are not getting the needed nutrients through diet alone, taking supplements is ideal.
In a study in The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, taking nutritional supplements for 12 weeks could reduce the appearance of wrinkles (13). Another study showed that taking oral supplements twice daily for 180 days may promote hair growth and reduce hair thinning (14). Another study in The Journal of Drugs Dermatology showed that vitamin supplementations could improve brittle nail syndrome (15).
If you need a little extra TLC, taking vitamin supplements would serve the purpose. Taking care of your diet alone may not always promote the health of hair, skin, and nails. Multivitamin and mineral supplements, along with the right diet and exercise, are a boon for your hair, skin, and nails. Talk to your healthcare provider today and pick the right supplement for you.
Expert’s Answers for Readers Questions
How does collagen help keep hair, skin, and nails healthy?
Collagen is a protein and a major component of healthy skin, hair, and nails. Several studies have shown that collagen may improve various skin conditions, slow down the aging process, and reduce skin dryness and wrinkles. Additionally, it also stimulates the healthy growth of hair and nails.
Do I need to speak to my doctor before taking supplements?
Water-soluble vitamins do not cause any harm to the body, as excess amounts are generally excreted through urine. However, it is always recommended to see professional guidance before you start taking health supplements.
How long do I need to take vitamin supplements?
Taking supplements for a few days will not bring you miraculous results overnight. Consistency is key. You need to take supplements for a minimum of 12 weeks to see any results.
15 sources
- Patel, Deepa P et al. “A Review of the Use of Biotin for Hair Loss.” Skin appendage disorders vol. 3,3 (2017): 166-169.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5582478/ - Almohanna, Hind M et al. “The Role of Vitamins and Minerals in Hair Loss: A Review.” Dermatology and therapy vol. 9,1 (2019): 51-70
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6380979/ - Patel, Deepa P et al. “A Review of the Use of Biotin for Hair Loss.” Skin appendage disorders vol. 3,3 (2017): 166-169
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5582478/ - National Center for Biotechnology Information. “PubChem Compound Summary for CID 171548, Biotin” PubChem, https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Biotin. Accessed 25 August, 2020.
https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/biotin - Glynis Ablon, “A 3-Month, Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study Evaluating the Ability of an Extra-Strength Marine Protein Supplement to Promote Hair Growth and Decrease Shedding in Women with Self-Perceived Thinning Hair”, Dermatology Research and Practice, vol. 2015.
https://www.hindawi.com/journals/drp/2015/841570/ - Hochman, L G et al. “Brittle nails: response to daily biotin supplementation.” Cutis vol. 51,4 (1993): 303-5.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8477615/ - Goluch-Koniuszy, Zuzanna Sabina. “Nutrition of Women with Hair Loss Problem during the Period of Menopause.” PrzegladMenopauzalny = Menopause Review, Termedia Publishing House, Mar. 2016.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4828511/ - Hertel, H et al. “Niedrigdosierte Retinol- und L-Cystin-Kombinationbessern die AlopezievomdiffusenTypnachperoralerLangzeitapplikation” [Low dosage retinol and L-cystine combination improve alopecia of the diffuse type following long-term oral administration]. Der Hautarzt; Zeitschrift fur Dermatologie, Venerologie, und verwandteGebiete vol. 40,8 (1989): 490-5.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2676911/ - Mukherjee, Siddharth et al. “Retinoids in the treatment of skin aging: an overview of clinical efficacy and safety.” Clinical interventions in aging vol. 1,4 (2006): 327-48.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2699641/ - Kim, Bae-Hwan. “Safety Evaluation and Anti-wrinkle Effects of Retinoids on Skin.” Toxicological research vol. 26,1 (2010): 61-6.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3834457/ - Meinke, M C et al. “Influence of dietary carotenoids on radical scavenging capacity of the skin and skin lipids.” European journal of pharmaceutics and biopharmaceutics : official journal of Arbeitsgemeinschaft fur PharmazeutischeVerfahrenstechnike.V vol. 84,2 (2013): 365-73.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23246796/ - Bolke, Liane et al. “A Collagen Supplement Improves Skin Hydration, Elasticity, Roughness, and Density: Results of a Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Blind Study.” Nutrients vol. 11,10 2494. 17 Oct. 2019.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6835901/ - Draelos, Zoe Diana. “An Oral Supplement and the Nutrition-Skin Connection.” The Journal of clinical and aesthetic dermatology vol. 12,7 (2019): 13-16.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6715334/ - Glynis, Ablon. “A Double-blind, Placebo-controlled Study Evaluating the Efficacy of an Oral Supplement in Women with Self-perceived Thinning Hair.” The Journal of clinical and aesthetic dermatology vol. 5,11 (2012): 28-34.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3509882/ - Scheinfeld, Noah et al. “Vitamins and minerals: their role in nail health and disease.” Journal of drugs in dermatology : JDD vol. 6,8 (2007): 782-7.
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