Evidence supporting the use of: Vitamin E
For the health condition: Hair (loss or thinning)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Vitamin E has traditionally been used as a supplement to support hair health, including claims regarding its effectiveness for hair loss or thinning. The rationale behind its use is primarily based on its antioxidant properties, which are thought to help reduce oxidative stress on the scalp and hair follicles. However, there is limited scientific evidence to directly support the use of vitamin E for preventing or treating hair loss. A small, often-cited 2010 study found that mixed tocotrienols (a form of vitamin E) supplementation improved hair growth in volunteers with hair loss, but the study had a small sample size and potential conflicts of interest, and its findings have not been widely replicated. Most of the evidence for vitamin E's role in hair health is anecdotal or extrapolated from its general role in skin health and wound healing. Furthermore, deficiencies in vitamin E are rare and, when present, may contribute to poor skin or hair quality, but this does not translate to a benefit from supplementation in people with normal levels. In summary, while vitamin E has a long-standing place in traditional and popular hair care products and regimens, robust clinical evidence for its effectiveness in treating hair loss or thinning is lacking.

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